As is tradition—for me and likely half the country—I'm spending the Fourth of July at a lake house. And between the boat, BBQs, and bonfires, my skin's going to need some serious TLC. A long weekend in the sun calls for a sweat-proof routine that protects against UV rays alongside a minimalist makeup lineup that won't melt off in the heat, especially when I'm out on the water. After years of trial and error, I've nailed down the ultimate July Fourth beauty routine.
Of course, everyone (hopefully) remembers to pack sunscreen—you're likely spending a full day outside, after all. But it's the little things that make the biggest difference: a spray that freshens up the sweaty spots (think inner thighs, bikini line, underarms, underboobs), a bug spray that doesn't smell like bug spray, and something to soothe the inevitable bites if one slips through.
And I'd be remiss not to mention the glam. This weekend, it's about ease. Nothing fussy—just heat-proof makeup essentials I can toss in my beach bag. Keep reading for the products I rely on every year to keep my skin looking its best on the Fourth of July.
Cleanse & Refresh
Nothing says "Fourth of July" like being a little too sticky in a little too many places. These are the products I use to de-slick for a fast refresh, no shower required.
I'm usually anti-face wipes; they're drying and never actually leave my skin clean. But Clean Sheets are the exception to the rule: they're soaked in skincare ingredients and feel more like micellar water with the convenience of a wipe. Plus, they actually remove makeup and sunscreen without leaving my face tight or irritated.
This little spray bottle is my secret hack to feeling fresh on the sweatiest of days. Simply spray on a tissue or directly on any area that needs a cleanse (inner thighs, bikini line, underarms, underboobs, etc.), and the hydrating formula gets to work deodorizing smells and calming the skin.
Protect & Prevent
Boat days on the lake call for heavy-duty SPF protection. To keep myself accountable—and remember to reapply every two hours—I stock up on sunscreens that have a little bonus factor, whether that be tinted coverage or a glowy sheen.
Some tinted sunscreens are makeup with a little bit of SPF, and that won't cut it. This one, however, is SPF with makeup that legit covers, tones, and protects all at the same time. It's my go-to base in the summer.
Scented with Vacation's nostalgic poolside summertime fragrance, and filled with varying types of shimmer and gold flecks, this luxurious SPF body oil gives me that sexy, smooth skin.
Summertime Sprays
Facial sprays come in a variety of forms—some to set makeup, some to calm irritation, and some to simply refresh the skin. Before I head out for the day, I lock everything in with a setting spray. And when my complexion is stressed later on, I reach for facial sprays with soothing ingredients.
One/Size Beauty launched one of the most innovative summer makeup products. It's a setting spray that contains SPF, yet imparts a matte finish so you don't get the usual sunscreen greasiness.
I run through bottles and bottles of the SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray for its ability to calm redness, irritation, and post-sun stressed skin.
Bugs, Begone!
Bug sprays are notoriously sticky, stinky, and often feel like you're coating your body in chemicals. However, they're one of those unfortunate summer necessities. Not to worry, I've found ones that are the La Mer of insect repellent. (A sentence you thought you'd never hear, huh?)
Say hello to the only insect repellent I will be using from here on out. Using a unique strain of Indonesian citronella, this baby wards off bugs all while smelling of luxe vanilla and citrus.
If a mosquito does manage to find me, I carry this OG as backup for a post-bite relief.
Minimal Makeup Must-Haves
The name of the game is easy, multi-tasking, and heat-proof. My makeup lineup achieves all while still creating a put-together look that works just as well on a boat as it does at a barbecue.
If you haven't heard of the genius innovation of what is Subtl Beauty, allow me to introduce you. Each compact, easy-to-use stack includes everything you need for an entire face. And it's not just convenience, the makeup is genuinely good.
I can't forget about the iconic formula that is Benetint—i.e., a rose tinted lip and cheek stain that leaves a stunning berry color and lasts all day long.
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