Urban Thought Collective

Summer is right around the corner, and I’m always looking for ways to keep my skin protected and healthy. Your skin can become oilier or parched due to heat and humidity. This can upset your tried-and-true makeup and skin care routine.

Here are some simple tips to combat the adverse effects of the summer sun on our skin:

ONCE-A-WEEK: Weekly facial scrubs will keep your skin smooth, preventing greasy build-up on oily skin, and erasing flaky patches on drier skin. Scrubbing will also help make-up glide on seamlessly, eliminating the need for primers.

EACH MORNING: Start the morning by protecting your face with an oil-free SPF moisturizer of at least level 15. You should choose a moisturizer with antioxidants and glycolic acid that protects the skin. Best bet: apply moisturizer right after washing your face, while your skin is still damp.

BEACH BUNNIES: When I’m going to the beach, I am always making sure my bag is packed with the essentials for outdoor protection. The eyes can get dried out from a day at on the sand, or even just from running around town going from various heated and air conditioned rooms. My best tip: use a rich eye balm at night full of nutrients for the skin.

LIP LOVE: Lastly, one thing I never leave the house without is a rich, moisturizing lip balm. You can use bolder and brighter lip color shades, so they’ll show up against skin that is on the dark and lovely side.

Remember, you can have fun in the sun, but you must protect your skin!!!

Leisha McCord is a Hawaiian-born make-up artist who has been a fierce glam team member for Hollywood’s hottest film and television stars. Her easy-to-use make-up tips are exclusive to Urban Thought Collective.