A Foolproof Faux Glow

Everyone can get frustrated by tiny jewellery clasps, but for people with conditions that affect fine motor skills, accessorizing is a daily challenge. While working with youth with cerebral palsy, Amanda Sottile, a kinesiology student at the University of Toronto, saw how life-changing adaptive solutions can be. It inspired Haven & Co., her jewellery brand, which offers a mix of classic and trendy necklaces with strong, adjustable magnetic clasps. The clasps are also sold separately and can be fastened to your own necklaces and bracelets.

MOON NECKLACE WITH MAGNETIC CLASP, $28, HAVENANDCO.CA.

Easy Does It

Bottle Service

Self-tanners have come a long way in the texture department. Case in point: Montreal-based Nuda, which specializes in mousses and mists. Need to brush up on your self-tan technique? We asked co-founder Geneviève Beaulieu to share her top tips for a flawless faux glow.

“A little goes a long way with this highlighter. The formula is lightweight and easy to blend, delivering the perfect golden summertime glow, and the small tube makes it easy to bring along for quick touch-ups throughout the day. ” — Genie, 45, Burnaby, B.C.

1. Ease into it

“Choose a shade close to your skin tone for natural results and increase the intensity gradually. ”

2. Prep the skin

DHA—a.k.a. dihydroxyacetone, the main active ingredient in self-tanners— works by reacting to amino acids in the top layer of skin, which leads dry areas to darken faster. To avoid patchiness, exfoliate and hydrate thoroughly before applying, paying special attention to hands, knees, elbows and feet.

3. Ace your application

For your face, try a lightweight mist or hydrating serum, such as Nuda ’ s newly launched Hyaluronic Acid Self-Tanning Serum ($60; nuda.ca). Hands and feet are notoriously hard to get right. The most common culprit: too much product. Beaulieu recommends using the leftovers from your full-body application. “Always use a mitt to avoid staining. ”

4. Fix mistakes

Missed a spot? Spritz with a self-tanning mist. Streaks? A paste of baking soda and lemon juice can help fade them. Massage into skin for five minutes, then scrub with a washcloth.

BEAUTY TALK

CHEEKBONE BEAUTY GOLDENROD ILLUMINATOR LIQUID HIGHLIGHT, $29, CHEEKBONEBEAUTY.COM.