Makeup artist B Wilson puts the finishing touches on a client. / Dollface Studios
We spoke with makeup artist B Wilson of Just B Beautiful for insider tips on how to stay looking bright and fresh despite the heat. Wilson and her “glam squad” offer on-location hair and makeup services in New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia.
Here are the tricks — and the products — she swears by.
1. Lighten up
“Leave that damn highlighter alone!” Wilson says. “When you sweat, your pores are open, so if you have makeup on your skin the makeup is going right into your pores and clogging them up. Wear the least amount of makeup possible and focus on your natural glow.” If you’re not brave enough to go totally bare, try a dab of tinted moisturizer and then contour with a light bronzer like Soleil Tan de Chanel. Absolutely refuse to give up foundation? Wilson recommends Urban Decay’s Naked Skin, which is “super light, but gives surprisingly full coverage.”
2. Get a (sunless) tan — no matter what your skin color is
Use a sunless tanner on your legs, whether you’re “the palest of pale to the darkest of dark,” says Wilson: “I’m African American, and I still get a spray tan on my legs.” The trick is a very light touch; you’re going for a subtle glow just a shade or two darker than your natural color to create a smooth, even, firm look. Wilson goes to The Bronzed Bee in Philadelphia for a customized airbrush spray tan. For a cheaper DIY option, she likes Airbrush Legs by Sally Hansen or Jergens Natural Glow.
3. Make an easy at-home cellulite eraser
Mask cellulite with this simple recipe:
• Instant coffee (caffeinated)
• Almond oil or vitamin E oil
• Brown sugar
Combine the ingredients, gently scrub in the shower, rinse off, and then admire your firm-looking thighs and butt. The smoothing effects will last for hours, Wilson says. Store any extra mixture in a mason jar for up to five days.
Expert tip: Do not use regular ground (not-instant) coffee, unless there’s a sexy plumber you want to invite over — it will clog the drain.
B’s bonus tip: Banish excess shine
This isn’t for everyday, but if you’re prepping for a special occasion, “wash, moisturize — and then prime with Milk of Magnesia,” Wilson says. “It acts as a barrier for the excessive sebum that builds up, and keeps your face smooth and matte the entire day.” Just dab it on with a cotton ball and then cover the chalkiness with a light tinted moisturizer or powder.
