4 Steps (+ 9 Finds) for Easy Summer Beauty and Hair

Today, Rene shares 4 steps (and 9 finds) for easy summer beauty and hair: 

When it’s hot and humid out, my first instinct is to skip putting anything on my face. But the truth is, I look and feel better if I dedicate a few minutes to primp in the morning. After some troubleshooting I've fine tuned a quick and easy routine that can have you looking summery and fresh in a flash and withstand chasing children in 90 degree heat. Here's the 4-step how-to, with 9 products to consider:

Step 1: Skin

A bb (or cc) cream such as Dr. Jart Water Fuse Beauty Balm With SPF 25 (1) or Coola Mineral Face SPF 30 Matte Tint (2) is a great multitasking product. It can offer color correction and evenness, and shield your skin with SPF. Dot on your face as concealer or apply all-over for an even complexion and protection.

Step 2: Shimmer & Color

Keep your colors and application light, and remember, a little shimmer goes a long way. theBalm's How ‘Bout Them Apples Lip And Cheek Cream Palette (3) and Aerin's Summer Color Face Palette (4) are perfect for mixing up rosy, golden tones for a sun-kissed face. Apply to cheeks, lids, or lips. Eyeshadow with a built-in primer -- such as Neutrogena’s Crease Proof Eye Shadow (5) -- will help the color stay fresh and prevent melting, regardless of how hot and sweaty you are.

Step 3: Finishing Touch

Mascara helps brighten up-all-night eyes in a hurry. Benefit's cult favorite -- Benefit They're Real! Mascara (6) -- stays put all day long (even at the sprinkler park) and gives lashes some major volume.

Step 4: Easy Summer Hair

Blow dryer? Forget about it. But let's take things a step up from a wet pony tail, shall we? If you want to fake tousled waves, or mask a dirty hair day, give a sea salt spray such as Bumble And Bumble Surf Spray (7) or Not Your Mother's Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray (8) a try for instant texture and body. Another quick fix? Use Sarah Potempa’s The WRAP UP (9) for a top knot or low messy bun that will keep you looking pulled together (and feeling cool) all summer long.

Image credits: products via links above; compilation graphic by Christine Koh