Summer Makeup S.O.S. 

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"Summer Makeup S.O.S." by Undercover Beauty Agent

Some days, especially in the summer, I just dread wearing eye makeup. New York City's air is humid and muggy, and being filled to the brim with millions of people doesn’t help. The city becomes so hot that even primer won’t stop my shadows from creasing.

On these days, I try to avoid eye shadow as much as possible.  Apparently, a lot of other women feel this way because my clients have asked me about easy alternatives to eye makeup for when they want to lighten up their look.

I had one lady come in whose face was literally melting off. She was wearing a deep red lipstick that was entirely too creamy and a thick liquid foundation. The lipstick was smeared all over her lips and just a hint of it was on her chin. She came in asking for a makeup wipe because even she knew she looked like the Wicked Witch of the West. After removing the makeup, I suggested something that wouldn’t disappear after a long train ride home.

My clients want to feel like they have makeup on, without actually having makeup on. With the heat, most ladies want something that will stay on all day without melting, but also something bright and fun for the summer time.

I always recommend lip and/or cheek stains. Really bright stains are perfect for a splash of color, and great for the beach because of their staying power. The best stains are the ones that can be used in different ways.

Undercover Beauty Agent Top 3 Lip and Cheek Stains

1 Benefit Cha Cha Tint

This mango tinted lip and cheek stain is perfect for darker complexions. It actually shows up on skin and gives a great summer glow. This product can be used on both the lips and cheeks, which saves tons of time if you’re in a rush. Just be careful with how you apply because it sets pretty quickly.

2 Stila Lip & Cheek Stain

While this comes in a variety of colors, the summer hits have been Yumberry and Pomegranate. These stains stay true to the iconic Stila packaging. The twistable pen provides easy application because the brush is built right in.

3 Smashbox Limitless Lip Stain & Color Seal Balm

Some women tend to have really dry lips and need an extra layer of moisture that stains don’t always provide. Smashbox’s lip stain includes a moisturizing balm that locks in the color and rehydrates lips. Try Guava and Sangria for an eye-catching pout.

Images courtesy of favim

Undercover Beauty Agent is just an average makeup artist at your local beauty counter who's reporting true stories exclusively for Beautylish: "I love what I do because I get to make people feel beautiful on a daily basis. Working with so many different people in New York City has definitely been interesting. I've learned a lot and not all of it is very pretty. I'm a beauty advisor by day and a secret beauty agent by night, totally ready to share all my insider secrets and gossip."