It’s that time of year when we’re holding onto the last few rays of summer: posting throwback holiday snaps and showing off what remains of our tans. If you’re a lover of barely-there makeup and fresh, golden skin all year round, the good news is that you can safely create this lit-from-within look both in the cooler and hotter months of the year without damaging your skin. 

Source: Pinterest

Stay on top of your skincare routine

Fresh, summery skin is skin that radiates with good health, so maintaining a consistent skincare routine is essential. Keep your complexion smooth and glowing with serums made with active ingredients such as AHAs, BHAs and Vitamin C. 
Moon Juice Acid Potion + The Nue Co C Powder 

Prime your skin with a dewy base

Dull, dry skin is not going to work here. Prepping with a hydrating base will give your complexion an instant boost and help your makeup apply more comfortably. Look for Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol and oils such as Squalane to seal moisture into the skin. 
HoliFrog Dewy Drop 

Keep your coverage sheer 

When it comes to perfecting summer skin, the key is to keep it looking fresh and natural. Keep your base sheer with a tinted moisturizer, with a touch of concealer where needed. Remember that less is more! 
LIA Super Serum Skin Tint 

Add faux glow with highlighter

A generous dose of highlighter is key to perfecting this look. Reach for creamy formulas that keep your base looking dewy to add dimension, applying where the sun would naturally highlight the contours of your face, including the upper cheekbones, cupid’s bow, and brow bone. 
ILIA Liquid Light 

Be generous with bronze and blusher

Run a shimmering bronzer across the temples and under the cheekbones to subtly sculpt the face, finishing with a light dusting along the bridge of the nose and over the eyelids. Then, strategically sweep your favourite blush across the cheeks and nose for natural warmth and dimension.  
ILIA Nightlite + ILIA Colour Haze + ROEN Blush and Blend Brush 

Finish with a few freckles

Nothing says summer skin quite like freckles, which enhance the post-holiday look we’re aiming to achieve. To add faux freckles, dot the nose and upper cheeks lightly with a narrow brow pencil, lightly pressing into the skin for a natural finish. 
ROEN VowBrow Medium 

Bonus: opt for tousled beach waves to perfect the look 

To really enhance your bronzed beauty look, try a sea salt spray to style your locks. Spray through damp hair for tousled waves and a low-maintenance finish that’s equal parts natural and glamorous.
Oribe Apres Beach Wave Spray