NASCAR In Heels: Beat the Heat


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With the high temperatures and humidity in these summer months you may find yourself dripping with sweat at the racetrack. Regardless of the temperature, I will apply makeup, however in these hot months I opt to keep it simple and long lasting.

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I find myself looking at the women of NASCAR and ask myself, “How do they look so perfect all the time?” My answer: either they have perfect skin and don’t wear any makeup, or they have a few tricks to keep them looking flawless in the heat. I am no professional, but I have a few tricks of my own, and I have found a few others that I will share to help keep you looking fresh and effortless on a hot day at the track.

The first thing that I apply to my face is a moisturizer with at least 30 SPF. This way it will keep your skin soft, but protect you from the harmful rays. Next apply a face primer. This is a crucial step and will help you avoid the “melting” look. Makeup melting off your face really isn’t a good look! Primer is applied after moisturizers or sunscreen and before face makeup, like foundation. It is just like primer in your house, preps the canvas to ensure everything goes on smooth and easy. Smashbox Photo Finsh primer from Sephora is a great choice, but there are lots to choose from out there. Everything depends on your skin type and complexion. After all of this you may want to apply foundation, but in the summer months I like to use a tinted moisturizer with a bit of foundation in areas that need more coverage.

Now that you’ve got the groundwork laid down, apply some bronzer, a powder blush, and finish it all off with a dusting of a loose, makeup setting powder. Powder blush and eye shadow generally last longer and are better for the hot, humid temperatures.

Waterproof mascara is also something that may come in quite handy. It lasts longer than regular mascara and you won’t have it running down your cheeks. Raccoon eyes are not the greatest look.

Lip stains are very popular lately. They pretty much a long-lasting marker that you color your lips with. I usually don’t go with a stain; I just use a tinted lip balm with SPF and sweep a little gloss over top.

Now your face will be good to go for a day at the track. If you find your skin getting oily or shiny throughout the day, blotting papers will work wonders. They absorb up any oil and don’t rub off your makeup like a tissue would. After using a blotting paper you may want to apply a little powder just to help absorb any existing oil. Your face will be photo-ready, for that pic with your favorite driver of course!

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Sun protection is the most important aspect in my mind for a day at the track, or outside in general. Spray on sunscreen is very convenient and easy to apply. I either use Australian Gold, or I buy children’s sunscreen. I figure if it’s meant to protect baby skin, it will definitely protect mine. Even on a cloudy day, this is an important step. If you really want a tan opt for a spray-on tan, that way you will get the summery glow, but you will not look like a leather shoe 15 years down the road.

If you choose not to wear a hat, you may find yourself having “hair issues” in the humidity. Anti-frizz serums or sprays can be a lifesaver. Look for a product that is designed specifically for use in humid temperatures so that you won’t have any Weird Al hair going on! If all else fails, go with a cute hat. Whether it has your driver’s number on it, or just something simple and stylish it will do the trick.

Now you don’t think I could forget about the guys?

Sun protection is obviously just as important for men as it is women, even down to the lip balm. I know many guys don’t want to carry a chapstick around but it will benefit them in the long run. Sunburned lips are not fun; but soft lips definitely are!

Hats are what most men choose to wear for a day at the track, whether it’s hot or cold, but if they choose not to they may also need something to tame their mane! If they’ve got any length to their hair an anti-frizz shampoo or product may be useful, or if they’ve got the longer, surfer-look Bumble and bumble Surf Spray would be good. It adds texture and volume while giving them that beachy-look. Ladies, you can use this stuff to get some textured beachy waves!

And last, but definitely not least, drink water! Lots and lots of water!

I hope that these products and tips will come in handy for your next trip to the track. You will be able to go from early in the morning to late in the evening and be looking amazing and fresh the entire time. Don’t let the heat and humidity bring you down. Stare Mother Nature in the face and walk towards her like you’re on a runway! Have fun and good luck!

Holly Strain is bringing her spin on the NASCAR world to Skirts and Scuffs, as she says, it is The Great American Sport through the eyes of a single girl. Holly is a Canadian born writer currently studying Publicity and Public Relations through the University of Toronto. Feel free to contact Holly onTwitter and via e-mail at hstrain@skirtsandscuffs.com.
NASCAR In Heels: Beat the Heat NASCAR In Heels: Beat the Heat Reviewed by Unknown on Tuesday, July 03, 2012 Rating: 5