INDstyle

Beauty and the Beach

by Amanda Bedgood

Summertime hair and skin are all about the au naturel. Our guide to the products and processes to fake that natural perfection.

Effortless beauty takes work, I always say. It's a smart woman who knows how to appear as though she's just fresh from the waves yet looks quite pulled together. Her secret is in the products of preparation from self-tanner that keeps her glowing to mouse that lifts and tames. There's no time like summertime for beauty done (kind of) natural.

Photo by Robin May

Turn up the volume
Moroccan Oil has long been known for products that keep hair flawless; it's no wonder we trust this company's newest bit for the hair arsenal - volumizing mousse. The weightless formula creates a flexible hold without residue, allowing hair to move - just the sort of carefree hair perfect for summer days. From Bath Haus.

Cool off
While we're sure you'd never skimp on the sunscreen, Mario Badescu's after-sun cooling gel is there just in case you did. With rose extract and, of course, aloe, this potion sends chilling menthol through the skin after a day of too much sun. The non-greasy, lightweight formula is a dream on the face compared to more traditional after-sun creams. From Bath Haus.

Protect yourself
The everyday assault of the sun is the worst of all. Try a waterproof sun protection like this one from Mario Badescu to keep sunspots from appearing and skin youthful. The sweat-proof formula wears well under makeup. From Bath Haus.

Fake it
It doesn't matter how much you tout the benefits of Vitamin D, the truth is that a tan is proof of damaged skin. But how lovely a golden tan does look. Fake it with self-tanners that are easy to apply at home and look as good as the real thing. The trick is in the application. Start with a serious scrub. Try a delicious option like this coconut concoction from Bath Haus to polish the body before self-tanning.
For those new to the world of self tanner, a towelette like the traditional Tan Towels we found at Bath Haus are a great way to start. Follow the simple directions to the letter and wake in the morning with a bronze glow that won't cost you later.