Best Summer Makeup on a Budget

The humidity here in New York has been out of control high. And nothing is less appealing then layering on the makeup to just melt off your face moments later. If you keep a good skin care routine, makeup can be minimal and summer is the perfect time to stick to basics. Here are my must haves for a summer skin:

Best part is? All these products are under $20!

Step 1: Maybelline’s new BB Cream is my dream product. I have always loved their foundation but for summer a lighter texture is okay. The “beauty balm” has SPF 30, primer, moisturizer and color in one, so you can avoid a long morning routine. It’s very sheer, so if you feel you need coverage this might not be the product for you. The color is buildable so if you have trouble areas you can add a bit more here and there. It’s only $9, and my favorite recently released beauty product.

Step 2: My FAVORITE bronzer is Victoria Secret’s. I think it’s the same hue as NARS’ Laguna but only a fraction of the price at $7. It’s a bit smaller than NARS palettes, but if you buy two, you’re still at a cost savings. The formula is light, free of shimmer, and natural-looking. I buy this in bulk so I’m never out. Check stores for where to buy.

Step 3: MAC creme blush is the best way to get that glowy, but not sweaty color during the hot summer months. Sweet William color was discontinued so I promptly bought 4 of them through MAC’ “gone but not forgotten” hotline. Yes, obsessed. But they have amazing shades from peach, to pink to mauve, or any skin tone. It goes on smooth and in a pinch can double for lip color as well!

Step 4: The holy grail of drugstore products, Maybelline’s Falsies waterproof mascara is another must-have. Under $10, it’s just as amazing as high-end department store mascaras but won’t break the bank. I wear mascara from the morning I wake up, until the second before bed, gym, grocery store, everywhere. If you’re diligent about your products, and trash your mascara every 3 months as recommended, Maybelline’s budget buys are perfect. Don’t forget waterproof to avoid raccoon eyes!

Quick 4 steps, taking a maximum of 10 minutes, will keep you fresh-faced and gorgeous. I always say, don’t hide your beauty under makeup, just enhance it. And these products will have you looking your best, without breaking the bank, during these 90+ degree days! Do you have any budget beauty buys to share with me?