How to summer proof your makeup

Summer is almost here, so it's time to change your makeup application routine to avoid makeup meltdown in the torrid summer days.

Making a full face makeup last all day in hot, muggy conditions is not easy, just as for some stepping outside 'bare face' is just as difficult.

If you still want to be able to wear makeup in the hot summer, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of makeup to know how to summer-proof your makeup.

Makeup Base

During the hot season we tend to sweat much more than in other season, which can instantly spoil our makeup.
Foundation can be very difficult in heat, it might melt down or smudge - to avoid any accidents - swap the liquid foundation to a waterproof powder foundation or mineral foundations.

This will give you the coverage you'll need, but your skin will still be able to breathe.

Carefully blend it into your skin, apply foundation only to certain spots, forget covering all your face with it.
Always have blotting paper at hand. It will will help you in removing the oil excess.

Eyes

Obviously waterproof mascara!
Opt for formulas that won't dry out your lashes. It is very important to let them breathe and keep them hydrated.

Take care how you wipe it off, your lashes might be very sensitive, as waterproof makeup is more stubborn.

In terms of eye shadows, you might look on the bright side with sheer, fresh colors. Pastel shades, neutrals, gold and aqua tones are very hot this season.


Eyeshadow primers are without a doubt essential weapons in summer-proofing your makeup.

Cream eyeshadows are definitely your best choice. Less is more, that's why keep things simple, apply only one or two shades to ease the proofing job.
Minerals, minerals, and again minerals....to avoid getting the panda eyes.

Lips

Lips can be as heavily affected by the sun just as your skin. So, you better take extra care of those kissies with proper conditioning and moisturizing.

Your lipstick might easily melt if you don't apply foundation to your lips.
This will keep it from smudging and smearing all over the place.

Lip liners are vital before applying the lipstick, these enhance its long-lasting effect. Then apply the lipstick or lip gloss for a natural look.

Choose tones that are close to your natural skin color. Your lips can also look fabulous if you use lip stains. Apply these to moisturized lips, since these are long lasting and can easily dry out your lips.

Practical Aromatherapy

How to dilute and use essential oils.

Aromatherapy enters the body in several ways.  When inhales, essential oils pass directly from the lungs into the bloodstream.  When absorbed through the skin in dilutions, aromatherapy oils enter the circulatory system.  If you carefully follow the guidelines for diluting and suggested uses, you'll be amazed at the efficacy of these plant-based remedies.

Start Safely:
Essential oils must be diluted before application to the skin.  Adding them to carrier oils such as hazelnut, grape seed, almond, or olive helps prevent skin irritation.  some citrus oils are photosensitizing, so avoid sun exposure for 12 hours after their application.

*Do not take essential oils internally.
Avoid essential oil use in the first trimester of pregnancy.  Later in pregnancy floral oils are best: rose, lavender, ylang ylang, jasmine, chamomile, and neroli.  Safe exceptions to flower oils include geranium, mandarin, orange, frankincense, and spearmint.  Use in 1/2 to 1 percent dilutions.

Dilution Guidelines:
1 percent dilution = 5 to 6 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil (best for babies, the elderly, or those of weak constitution).
2 percent dilution = 10 to 12 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil (for general use). Do not exceed 15 drops per ounce of carrier oil.

Methods of Application:
Here's how to prepare essential oils before use:

• Massage oil: 2 percent dilution.
• Bath oil: 2 to 10 drops per tub (don't use irritant oils: peppermint, citrus, lemongrass, spice oils).
• Foot bath: 5 to 10 drops per gallon of water or herbat tea.
• Compress: 4 drops per quart of water.
• Gargle or mouthwash: 2 drops in one cup of water.
• Inhalant: 5 to 10 drops in bowl of hot water with towel tent; or sprinkle on hankie.
  

Yoga Pose of the Week

Supine Spinal Twist - Supta Matsyendrasana Is the Yoga Pose of the Week

A little holiday indulgence plus a little seasonal cold calls for nothing too ambitious on the mat. A supine spinal twist is just perfect to gently unwind the spine and flush out the organs. This week before the new year is always a good time for a little restorative yoga before stepping up your game again in 2010.

Supine Spinal Twist - What is it?:

The supine spinal twist is essentially laying on your back and gently rotating the spine by twisting at the waist. The shoulders lay flat on the floor, while one knee is bent and brought up and crossed over the body. The other leg stays on the floor. This movement can be very therapeutic; however, it does come with a warning for people with back pain.

Sage first blog post Woo Hoo

At SAGE our natural spa treatments ensure every visit is an opportunity for transformation.  By drawing inspiration from the natural benefits of herbs and plants our array of services cultivates rest and renewal.  At SAGE we are result oriented.  Visit Sage Skin Spa for restoration, rejuvenation, relaxation and restore your mind, body and  spirit.    http://www.sageskinspa.com