Summer can play havoc with our beauty routines. We imagine ourselves frolicking through the warmer months tanned, glowing and our hair perfectly tousled, yet the reality is often very different. Yep, we’re talking about Monica Gellar hair, fake tan blunders and pesky sandal blisters.
Fear not though, thanks to these handy hacks you can easily (and cheaply) remedy a whole host of summer beauty disasters...
1. Use cling film to apply sun cream or fake tan to your back
There is nothing more annoying than trying (and failing) to apply cream to your own back. To avoid a burnt or white patch on your back, all you need is a sheet of cling film. Cut a piece around one metre long and apply a blob of your suncream or fake tan to the centre of the film. Then take both ends of the film and use it to rub the lotion over your back as if you were drying off with a towel to evenly spread the lotion.
**2. Keep nail polish in the fridge **
Warmer temperatures can make your nail varnish go bubbly, store in the fridge to keep it cool.
3. Banish sweat stains with lemon juice
There’s no nice way to say it: summer is sweaty. To get sweat stains out of clothes rub lemon juice on the stains before putting in the washing machine.
4. Freeze aloe vera gel to soothe sunburn
Simply fill an ice cube tray with aloe vera gel and pop in the freezer. Apply the ice cubes to burnt or sore skin to calm and rehydrate.
**5. Get rid of fake tan marks with baking soda **
Mix this kitchen cupboard staple with water to rub off any fake tan mistakes.
6. Use a potato for an at-home pedi
Exfoliate your feet by rubbing the soles with half a potato coated in coarse sea salt. Talk about a cheap pedi.
7. Dry your hair with a t-shirt to reduce frizz
Summer weather can cause havoc with your hair. Fight fizz by swapping your towel for a t shirt when drying. Traditional towel-like material zaps the moisture from hair which in turn causes frizz.
8. Stop blisters with deodorant
Sandals are notoriously bad for rubbing and causing blisters. Swipe the niggling areas with deodrant to create a barrier that protects your skin from friction.
9. Prevent holiday hair damage by washing your hair with tap water
Make sure to rinse your hair with tap water before going in the sea or pool. Your porous hair will soak up the water, preventing the chemical-laden pool or salty water from damaging your locks.
10. Use baking soda to treat chlorine damaged hair
If your hair is starting to turn a Shrek-esque green, it’s time to revisit the baking soda. Wash your hair with baking soda before your usual shampoo and conditioner, and see your hair restored to its original hue.
**11. Treat shaving rash with baby powder **
Prevent irritation and chafing post-shaving by dusting skin with baby powder.
**12. Brighten hair with apple cider vinegar **
Sun and salt water can seriously dull the shade of your hair. Spritz your main with ½ cup of apple cider vinegar and leave on for 10 minutes before rinsing off.