02-06-2025
SPF Tints & Sheer Everything: The Ultimate Summer Swap for a Makeup Detox
Summer has officially entered the chat—and if you live in Dubai, you know what that means. The moment you step outside, your makeup starts to melt. Your full-coverage foundation? It doesn't stand a chance against the city's intense humidity. The Dubai sun doesn't mess around, and neither should your beauty routine. This summer, a makeup detox is essential—build a routine that has a skin-first approach. Your makeup can deliver an effortless, radiant glow, all while allowing your skin to breathe—the two aspects aren't mutually exclusive. And newsflash: real skin has texture, blemishes, freckles, and all the perfectly imperfect things that make us human. This season, let your makeup enhance—not hide—your natural beauty. Aim to amplify your glow, not erase your individuality.
Besides the aesthetically natural appeal, lightweight makeup works better in summer because it prevents your pores from clogging in the heat. How does that work? The rise in temperatures can cause your sebaceous glands to produce more oil—combine this with heavily formulated products and you have blocked pores plus comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads) on your hands. In addition to that, thick layers have a tendency to interfere with your skin's natural cooling mechanism through perspiration—lightweight makeup will allow your skin to thermoregulate. Don't know where to begin and what to replace? Let us help you build a simple makeup routine with products that carry skincare benefits.
Dewy sunscreens
Sun protection is non-negotiable, especially if you live in the UAE. Thanks to the new-age beauty brands, we have sunscreens that have evolved beyond the thick, chalky formulas of the past and don't even leave behind a visible white cast. If you struggle with dry skin, stick to cream-based formulas. For those with oily and acne-prone skin, gel is your safest bet. Sticks and mists are only recommended for targeted application or reapplication. Brands like Kosas, with their DreamBeam formula, or Ultra Violette's Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminizing Skinscreen, all focus on protecting your skin while giving it an illuminating glow.
SPF-infused skin tints
If the thought of wearing a heavy foundation in summer doesn't make your skin crawl, you're yet to experience the GCC sun in full throttle. Recently, the full-coverage foundations with an opaque appearance have taken a back seat, allowing skin tints to have a moment in the sun (see what we did there?). SPF-infused skin tints are the ultimate summer multitasker, offering lightweight coverage with built-in sun protection. These formulas even out your complexion without the weight or potential for creasing that comes with traditional foundation. They're perfect for the UAE's climate because they offer protection while letting your natural skin show through. Hourglass, Urban Decay, Milk Makeup and Anastasia Beverly Hills have mastered this category with formulas that adapt to your skin tone seamlessly.
Cream blushes
Powder blushes have their own appeal, but during summer they tend to settle into your pores, fade faster and leave a blotchy finish (as opposed to the sun-kissed flush you were going for). Cream-based blushes are the summer holy grail that blend seamlessly into your skin and are less likely to fade or crack in the heat. Try ILIA's Multi-Stick or Milk Makeup's Cooling Water Jelly Tint, which has a sheer effect and can be used as a lip and cheek stain.
Tanning drops
We all love a good tan, but why risk sun damage when you can create the bronze goddess vibe with equally efficient and natural-looking products? Tanning drops or lotions are perfect to get that ideal olive shade in an even way. Whind's Instant Glow Tinting Water offers this bronze boost while keeping skin hydrated and shimmering throughout the day.
Lip oils
Heavy matte lipsticks need to be packed away for summer—no one wants stark pigment with a cracked texture. Lip oils, on the other hand, have emerged as the perfect alternative for gentle lip care, offering a balanced blend of colour, shine, and nourishment. Whether you're in a dry, air-conditioned space or braving the outdoor heat, lip oils help maintain hydration, support the skin barrier with ceramides, and keep your lips feeling soft. Unlike some glosses, which can be sticky or irritating, lip oils are typically more skin-friendly and formulated to align with your lips' natural pH.
Update your routine with these summer-ready swaps:
Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+ Luminizing Skinscreen AED205
Supergoop! Protec(Tint) Daily SPF Tint AED190
Kosas DreamBeam SPF 40 PA++++ AED150
Hourglass Veil Hydrating Skin Tint AED190
Hourglass Vanish Air Brush Concealer AED150
Anastasia Beverly Hills BEAUTY BALM SERUM BOOSTED SKIN TINT AED105
Anastasia Beverly Hills BLURRING SERUM BLUSH AED73
Summer Fridays
ILIA Multi-Stick Cream Blush + Highlighter + Lip Tint AED140
Urban Decay Face Bond Luminizer AED170
Whind Whind Marrakech Sun Instant Glow Tinting Water AED189
Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Gel Tint – 12-Hour Hydrating Gel Skin Tint AED170
Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Tint - Sheer Lip + Cheek Stain AED100
Huda Beauty Blush Filter - Liquid Blush AED110
Summer Fridays
Lifestyle: Summer Fridays, Milk Makeup, Huda Beauty, ILIA