The dog days of summer are here, but don't let that keep you from looking your best. With its hot, sticky days and buggy, sticky nights, August presents a host of beauty challenges -- from frizzy hair to shiny skin. Before you go and do something crazy -- like wish for winter -- try these creative solutions for keeping your cool.BUG OFF
Instead of covering yourself with sticky, chemical-laden bug spray, dab on Intelligent Nutrients Certified Organic Bug Repellent. The DEET- and pesticide-free blend of certified organic essential oils naturally deters insects (trust me, it works), but smells more like a spicy-sweet perfume than a citronella candle. $26 at IntelligentNutrients.com.
Soothe a sunburn
Even with proper prevention (you're wearing at least an SPF 30 daily and reapplying it every hour, right?), sunburns happen. To soothe the sting, Dr. Charles E. Crutchfield III of Crutchfield Dermatology in Eagan recommends an oldie but goodie: "Aloe vera gel every three to four hours. I like to keep it in the fridge," he said.
To help with inflammation, he also suggests applying hydrocortisone cream to sunburned skin every six hours and taking two aspirin every eight hours for up to three days.
SAFEGUARD COLOR
Hair needs sun protection, too. Especially if it's colored or highlighted in blond, which tends to turn brassy when exposed to the elements. For the ultimate defense, slip on a chic headscarf and spritz on a UV defense spray before heading outside. To prevent discoloration from chlorine, coat hair in conditioner before diving in. Try: Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil, $26 at Aveda salons and aveda.com.
FIGHT FRIZZ
Start by putting down the blow drier. "Too much heat styling leads to flyaways," says Margaret Ayache, master stylist and creative director at Bespoke Hair Artisans in Edina. Instead, Ayache suggests applying a leave-in conditioner or light serum such as Kerastase Serum Oleo Relax, which helps control frizz without weighing down tresses. Got curls? Leave them alone. "Let hair air-dry without touching it." Result: More defined curls, less frizz.
Make a mask
Before your next cocktail party, whip up a big batch of this Firming Ice Cube Mask from celeb skin care guru Ole Henriksen:
1. Blend equal parts fresh lemon juice, brewed rose hip tea, brewed mint tea and vodka. The exfoliating enzymes in the lemon juice, circulation-enhancing ice and pore-tightening properties of the vodka create a natural temporary Botox-like effect.
2. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray and freeze.