I discovered something important: I don’t need to buy new products. I can simply become a cosmetic chemist! Honestly, any beauty routine that gives me the vibe of mixing up potions is instantly more enjoyable.

Prepare to do some mixing. You can experiment on the back of your hand for a daring approach, but using a small saucer will minimize mess. Trust me, you could end up scratching yourself with product-covered fingers… not that I speak from experience (but I do).

Step One: Hydrate and Shield Your Skin

I still appreciate a rich moisturizer, even during the hot months, and my current favorite is: 

Vivier Intensive Hydrating Moisturizer – 55ml – $190

This luxurious moisturizer is enriched with a Ceramide-Lipid Complex, Hyaluronic Hydration Complex, Squalane, Panthenol, and a Collagen Peptide Complex, designed to restore moisture and leave your skin looking nourished and supple.

I typically use a couple of pumps, but for this mixing experiment, I reduce it to about half that amount. Next, I add sunscreen because we certainly don’t invest in skincare just to damage our skin under the sun.

Staying within the same product line, I use: 

Vivier Sheer SPF30 Mineral Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Sunscreen – 60ml – $72

This lightweight, 100% mineral sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection and leaves a radiant, dewy finish. Its formula is enriched with Vitamins C and E, providing hydration and brightening benefits while ensuring your skin feels comfortable and not greasy.

Step Two: Infuse Some Color

Next, I incorporate about half a pump of foundation into my mixture. Most of it goes into my concoction, but I reserve a small amount on the side for later.

My current foundation favorite is: 

Rare Beauty True to Myself Natural Matte Longwear Foundation – 30ml – $52, available in 48 shades from very light Fair Neutral to very dark Deep Cool.

This foundation stands out as a true gem, combining breathability, long-lasting wear, and humidity resistance while seamlessly mimicking the look of natural skin. The packaging is also noteworthy, featuring ergonomic curves and a unique push-button lock that eliminates the need for a cap, making it easier to use—especially for those who struggle with traditional bottles.

Step Three: Achieve a Radiant Glow 

Summer skin should radiate a healthy glow, not shine excessively. To achieve this, I mix in a bit of: 

Nivea Luminous Skin Glow Instant Glow Serum – 30ml – $41.99 

This lightweight serum is designed to enhance radiance, featuring Niacinamide, Aloe Vera, and Nivea’s patented LUMINOUS630 technology, which helps visibly diminish dark spots, smooth skin texture, refine pores, and provide an instant healthy glow while improving skin over time.

This serum imparts just the right amount of luminosity, making me look vibrant and refreshed, rather than sweaty and shiny. It gives off the impression of being well-hydrated and well-rested, even if the reality involves caffeine and questionable choices.

It is available at drugstores and mass retailers throughout Canada.

Step Four: Create a Sun-Kissed Look Without the Sun

Actual tanning? No way. Sun damage is something I actively avoid.

Instead, I opt for bronzer. You can blend it into your concoction for an all-over sun-kissed effect, but I prefer to keep a small amount separate on the side of my saucer.

Since powder bronzer feels a bit outdated, I’m currently obsessed with: 

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Sun Stalk’r Soufflé Bronzer – $52.50 – available in eight shades: Suga Cookie, Biscotti, Churro Twist, Maple Glaze, Brown Butt’r, Sweet Truffle, Coffee Toffee, and Hot Fudge.

This pressed mousse bronzer has an incredibly light texture that melts into the skin, providing a natural warmth that suggests, “I spent the weekend in Tuscany,” even if the reality involved laundry folding.

Step Five: Choose Your Application Tools

Feel free to use your fingers or a sponge if that’s your preference.

I am firmly part of Team Brush, particularly: 

Real Techniques Bubble Blending Brush – $16.99

This brush features a dense, rounded design that effortlessly blends powders, creams, and liquids for a flawless finish.

Now comes the exciting part. Swirl your concoction on the saucer until you create your personalized tinted foundation. This customized mix utilizes products you already own and can be adjusted daily based on your skin’s needs—whether it’s thirsty, dull, irritated, or all of the above.

After buffing the mixture over my face, I return with a small brush to use the saved blob of foundation as concealer for areas requiring additional coverage. Then, I grab my larger brush, which still has traces of moisturizer, and dip into the bronzer on the saucer to apply it to my cheeks, forehead, and nose.

The remaining moisturizer softens and blends the bronzer, allowing it to meld seamlessly into the skin instead of just resting on top.

Essentially, this is summer makeup for those who want to be budget-conscious, shop their own supplies, and occasionally indulge in the thrill of pretending to be cosmetic scientists concocting magic potions in their beauty labs.

So grab a small saucer, embrace your inner cosmetic chemist, and start mixing—your ideal summer skin solution is likely already waiting in your makeup drawer!

– Lisamarie –