July 4th Beauty Goodies

It's finally here: July 4th. Parties, bbq's, bonfires, and fireworks! Basically, it's an entire weekend devoted to debauchery.

So, it's sweltering hot, your two drinks deep and you've got another 9 hours of party time to go. The last thing you want to be worrying about is frizzy hair and blotchy skin.

Here are some tips for enjoying the long days (and fun-filled nights) while still maintaining your goddess status:

1 - Wear Sunscreen. That's a given. But needed to remind you. July 4th will come and go, but sun damage and wrinkles will last a life time... Pick one of my natural sunscreen recs by clicking here.

2 - Try a braid or loose bun to keep hair in place and off of your face. It's hot out there, no need to have a long, billowing mane of hair to make you hotter. Plus, braids are super trendy and always spice up a look.

3 - Stain those lips and cheeks. I've been saying it all spring and summer. Stains are the way to go when outside for hours on end. They don't melt, stay in place, and give a natural, no-makeup effect. Some favorites: CoverGirl Outlast Lip Stain, Benefit Benetint, Josie Maran Magic Marker.

4 - Nails and toes should be manicured and painted with a bright color that doesn't interfere with your clothing! I always go for red. It works with every outfit. Essie A-List is my go-to. Trendy colors are fun, but they can clash with your ensemble... take note!

5 - Waterproof mascara is a must. Anything else will flake or smear in the heat.

6 - Your skin is bound to get sweaty. Don't stress about it. Carry around blotting papers and deal with it! Shiseido makes high-end, oil control blotters that won't ruin your makeup.

7 - Primer is key. I know, I'm repeating myself, but better safe than shiny. Use a primer prior to makeup application. It'll keep the goods on your face longer and help to reduce the shine factor. I'm really loving NARS 'Pro-Prime Oil Free Pore Refining Primer. A need-to-own product for every beauty arsenal.

Have a very happy and safe Fourth of July...