Fun in the Sun: Fixes for Your July Meltdown

As we all know, Austin summers are a little on the warm and sunny side. Yes, the sun is glorious and the source of all life, but it can cause beauty disasters. Here are a few summer beauty problems that I have personally experienced, accompanied by solutions, of course. Problem: Protecting skin from the sun, without wearing heavy, greasy sunblock.

Solution: As I am sure everyone knows by now, sun damage can not only turn you into a peeling mess now, but can also age skin in the years to come. There are some moisturizing lotions out there with a touch of sun protection, such as Lubriderm Daily Moisture SPF 15 and Eucerin Daily Protection SPF 15, but since I tend to be outside for longer periods of time, I try to use products that are a little stronger. My favorites are Neutrogena Ultimate Sport Sunblock Spray and Wet Skin Sunblock Spray, for when you head down to Barton Springs. They feel light, not heavy and greasy like traditional sunblocks can, and they come in a range of SPFs. As an added bonus, being diligent in your sunblock application might also prevent the dreaded farmer's tan. For your face, Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense SPF 50 Facial Moisturizer feels non-greasy and comes from a trusted skin care brand. Don't forget your lips! There are many great lip balms with SPF protection, so take your pick.

Problem: My makeup is melting, or it just feels too heavy to be wearing in this heat.

Solution: Liquid and cream makeup often feels or even looks too heavy for Austin summers. I like to skip liquid foundation and wear powder makeup that blends into my skintone, such as those made by Almay. If you'd like something lighter, translucent powders work well, and if you want heavier coverage, try mineral makeup in powder form. Lip and cheek stains are great ways to add bold color without wearing cream blushes and heavy lipstick and everyone loves benetint. Wear a waterproof mascara to make sure it doesn't run just in case you sweat or have an impromptu afternoon at the pool. If your skin gets oily in the summer, pack some blotting papers in your purse so that you can blot away the extra oil without disturbing your makeup. Adding more powder to cover the shine, on the other hand, might make your makeup look cakey.

Problem: My hair looks extra oily, greasy, or otherwise gross.

Solution: Dry shampoo is a great quick fix for this problem, and it will save your hair from the wear and tear of an extra washing. We like Beyond the Zone Rock On Dry Shampoo because it has a great fragrance and doesn't leave that dull, gray residue. Using dry shampoo only takes a few minutes, but if you don't have the time or a place to do it, the classic summer fix is of course a ponytail or a beautiful braid. Change up your hairstyle by wearing your ponytail or braid to the side, over one shoulder, and people won't even guess that you're hiding the greasies because you're just stylin'!

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