We think sultry and sexy when we think summer.  Make up is lighter, softer and very alluring.  We’ve compiled some great tips to be sure you have a sexy, fresh summer face.

You want to look fresh and vibrant in the summer, with a dewy, healthy skin glow even on the hottest day of the season. Mascara running down your face after the rest of your makeup has melted off is not the look you are going for though, so it is important that you apply makeup appropriately in the summer months.

Start with a clean and protected base: wash and dry your face thoroughly and then apply a light moisturizer with sunscreen. If you must use a foundation, try mixing a small amount with your regular moisturizer for a lighter look. No one wants to have a caked on appearance in the summer but a bit of makeup will help you feel more confident throughout the day.   The heat can cause redness of the face, so something to help even out your skin tone is a good idea.

Tip: If you apply your makeup in unnatural lighting, step outside or in front of a window for a quick check when you are done.  A lot of times you’ll find you need to do some extra blending to soften things up.

A simple eye primer may be all that you need before applying a sheer shade of eye shadow in a neutral or shimmery shade. Shimmer is always hot in the summer.  It creates that fresh yet sexy and exotic looks.

The primer will help keep the shadow and eyeliner where it belongs.  Summer time is also a great time to experiment with a bit of color on the eyes, just be sure to choose a sheer shade to avoid the dreaded disco fever eyes (unless you are hitting a late night club and looking to go a little wild and glammed up).

Waterproof mascara is a must, even if you don’t plan to jump into the nearest pool or lake. Raccoon eyes can result from a small amount of sweat with non-waterproof mascara so take the plunge with waterproof eyes no matter what your day holds.

You can probably skip the blush altogether and allow the heat to give you a healthy flush. If you will be indoors most of the day, apply a sheer blush in a peachy pink shade to mimic the effects of a day spent in the garden.  Cream based blushes help with the dewey fresh look of summer.  Smile and apply it on the apple of your checks, blending up from there.  Use your fingers to apply – it softens the blush and allows for smoother and more natural spreading.

Finish with a sheer lipstick or gloss in a light shade (leave dark lipsticks behind until the Fall) to complete the look with minimal effort and maximum results.

A light dusting of powder can help set your makeup so that it doesn’t start running down your face when the first ray of sunshine hits. Keep it simple and sheer, with occasional blotting if necessary, and you will look fresh and beautiful all summer long.

Check out your local beauty store and grab some of those great oil absorbing papers.  You can slip a pack in your purse and dab your face throughout the day to keep it fresh.  You want dewy but not shiny!

A little shimmer/glitter powder on the shoulders or around the top of your cheek bones is a great way to add some pizzazz for a romantic summer evening.

Never overdo it with the bronzer or you’ll look like an Oompa Loompa.  Keep it light and use as a highlighter on your cheekbones, chin and sweep across forehead.

Have any tips you want to share?  Comment below.  We welcome tips for fresh, sexy, summer make up.