As the winter chill sets in, our skin craves two things: hydration and a bronzed glow. And because you can’t achieve the latter without paying attention to the former, let’s talk prep.
Start with a good exfoliation routine, removing stubborn dead skin cells once a week using a mitt like Kitsch’s Exfoliating Glove ($14) during your shower. While your skin is still damp, apply a rich body cream or oil to lock in moisture, paying especially close attention to areas prone to dryness such as knees, elbows and ankles.
Next, apply a gradual tanning lotion to achieve a more natural look than a full-on fake tan. One of our favourites is Jergens Natural Glow Skin Firming Moisturiser Medium To Deep Skin Tones ($14), which boosts hydration as the colour slowly develops. During winter, choose a lotion that’s a shade or two lighter than your summer favourite to keep the look natural. And to help your fake tan last, avoid taking long hot showers as they can strip the skin of its natural oils and fade your fake tan more quickly.
One area of the body that fades fastest in winter is our décolletage as we tend to cover up more. For an instant boost when wearing a lower-cut neckline, try Airyday Golden Shimmer Body SPF50+ Dreamscreen ($41).
Turning our attention to the face, try mixing tanning drops into your daily serum or moisturiser. By adding them slowly, you can more easily customise your preferred shade. We love Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops ($59).
To create a make-up-based dewy bronzed look, pick cream formulas like Saie Sun Melt Natural Cream Bronzer ($66). Swirl your favourite buffing brush into the cream bronzer and buff into cheeks, the bridge of the nose and temples.
If you are a luminiser lover, there is a new release from Chanel – expected May 5 – on its way to shelves: Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Summer Essentials ($423). This pearlescent, peachy highlighter is designed to mimic a sun-kissed glow. Just dab it on where the sun would shine – the tops of the cheeks, forehead and jawline and blend lightly using a fluffy buffing brush. One of our favourites is Mecca Max Complexion Buffing Brush ($22).
This time of year is also perfect for adding a rosy-hued powder blush over your bronzer to create a flirty finish. We love the old stalwart Nars Blush in Orgasm ($62) to create the perfect satiny sheen.
For an all-purpose, sun-kissed look, try the “halo technique” by applying bronzer around the hairline and over the cheekbones. For the finishing touch, go for a little lip pizazz by adding M.A.C Dazzle Lips in Chandelier ($40).
ASK STEPH
How do I get the best side part in my hair?
When your hair is wet, use a wide-tooth comb to pull hair back and then align your part with the high point of your brow. Try Kevin Murphy Texture Comb ($20).
Send questions via Instagram, @mrssdarling.
Get the best of Sunday Life magazine delivered to your inbox every Sunday morning. Sign up here for our free newsletter.
