A month or so ago, I was contacted by West Michigan Woman Magazine to give a few summer makeup tips and tricks for their June issue. Since it is a magazine, they only had room for a few quick things, but I thought it would be good timing to expand a little bit.

For me, summer skin is all about basics and not over-doing it. Summer is hot and humid, and the last thing you want is a bunch of makeup dripping down your face.

If you are one of those lucky people that instantly has a sun-kissed perfectly complected glow, well, good for you. You can probably get away with mascara and chapstick for the next three months. If you aren't one of those, please read on.

First off, I know it's summer and you want to be tan, but please (please please please!), remember your sun screen. Everyone is sick of hearing it, but it's so true. You WILL look like a raisin in ten years if you do not protect your skin, plus skin cancer is just no fun. If you can't remember to put sun screen on, then opt for a product that does it for you. I always choose a daytime moisturizer with at least an SPF 15 in it, 25-30 would be better, and you want broad spectrum protection. Block those UVA and UVBs.

Tinted moisturizers are a great option for summer, because with a little sun on our skin, most acne will clear out and you won't need as much coverage. A tinted moisturizer will give sheer coverage, but most also contain some level of sun protection. I know Laura Mercier's does, but there are many other brands that do as well. If you suffer from dark circles or have an occasional breakout, use concealer where needed and blend it out into the more sheer foundation. Don't be afraid to rock bare skin if you don't need coverage.

Another item I love for summer, is cream blush (creme if you're feeling fancy). I recommended Benetint in the article above for cheek and lip color, and it's great because it is a stain and will be more sweat proof. However, cream is another good option because it has more staying power than a powder, and gives that beautiful natural flush that everyone loves in the summer. If you have warm skin, opt for a bright peach shade. Cooler and olive skin tones reach for something deliciously berry. There are also options to fit every budget. Nars multiples are iconic, but I've heard great things about the $5.99 blushes from NYX and plan on giving them a whirl soon.

As far as lips go, I do love love love the Sugar Lip Treatment's from Fresh! Bonus that they have SPF 15 in them (no crunchy burnt lips for you!). Keep it simple though, that cream blush I recommended above can double as color on the lips. Put a little chapstick on, add some cream blush and voila!... tinted gloss. Pat a tiny bit on your lids as well and you are rocking a summer flush all over your face. Sounds crazy but trust me, it's gorgeous and simple.

If you are an oily gal, carry some blotting sheets or a pressed powder to touch up your t-zone throughout the day. Otherwise finish the look with some mascara, maybe fill in the brows a bit, and you are good to go. This is how I will be wearing my makeup all summer long, and I love the simplicity of it. It's summer only for a short time here in Michigan, and less time behind the mirror, is more time out in our brief season of warmth!

Comment if you have questions! :)