How to Fake a Summer Glow in 3 Steps

In high school, my friends and I were tanning fanatics. Once, I dug up an old prom picture and marveled at how I used to think looking like a burnt marshmallow was cute. I've now read enough anti-aging studies to wave goodbye to tanning, but I still want that healthy, bronzed look. Luckily, faking a summer glow is easy with makeup. Here's how in 3 steps!

Step 1: Foundation - Almay Smart Shade (Light Medium)

While I use SPF and never purposefully tan my face, my face naturally gets slightly darker during the summer. In perfect timing, Almay sent me their Smart Shade makeup to try out, which adjusts to skin tones with a new color-adaptive technology.

How To: Apply with a foundation brush starting from the center of face, focusing on the t-zone and lightly blending out to the edges so you don't get a thick product line between your face and neck.

Step 2: Cream Bronzer - Tom Ford Duet (Intensity Two)

I forgo my usual Cargo powder bronzer in the summer because I want a more dewy look. I used to be intimidated by a cream bronzer, but this Tom Ford cream bronzer blends so easily for a sunkissed appearance.

How To: Dab the cream bronzer with a short stippling brush and sweep in a downward motion from under your cheekbones. In a circular motion, blend the cream bronzer, and pull the product up across your hairline and down along your jawline.

Step 3: Highlighter - NARS Illuminator (Orgasm)

This is the most fun step! NARS makes my favorite illuminators. On special occasions, I use the NARS Albatross highlighting powder, but again for summer, creams offer a fresher look. The NARS Orgasm liquid illuminator gives the perfect glow with a rose-gold shimmery finish.

How To: Squeeze a little liquid illuminator on your ring finger and lightly tap in a half-moon shape from above your cheekbone up to right below your temple. Place remaining product anywhere you'd like to highlight!

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Sponsored by Almay. All photography and writing are my own.