Sweating is a natural bodily function, but it does have a tendency to interfere with the makeup look that you took so long to perfect. There’s a fine line between fresh and glowing and the hot weather melting off all your hard work. Although there’s no escaping the summer heat completely, you can make some changes to your makeup routine to avoid looking smudged and greasy whenever you step outside. It’s all about using the right products and techniques for application. Below, read the best cosmetologist-approved tips and products to help make your makeup last all day—even during the hottest months of the year.
1: Don’t Forget the Sunscreen
Good makeup application starts with a good skincare routine. During the summer, you’re at an even higher risk of sun damage due to the stronger UV index. While sunscreen is an important part of your routine year-round, you’ll want to increase the level of protection during the summer. Try using a stronger SPF sunscreen under your makeup. While your regular moisturizer or foundation might advertise SPF protection, an extra layer is a good idea. Scientists found you would have to layer your foundation up to 15 times heavier than usual application in order to achieve the UV protection advertised on the packaging. Sunscreen is a more direct form of protection that requires a thinner layer to achieve the desired protective effect.
Make sure to reapply frequently for continued protection, especially if you’re at the pool or beach where your original layer might wash off. If you want to wear makeup over the sunscreen, a powdered sunscreen can be a great resource. This is a mineral-based powder that uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to deflect damaging UV rays, and it can be dusted on over your foundation.
2: Prep Your Base
After your skincare routine is complete, prep your face for makeup application. A good primer provides a smooth base and can extend the wear-time of your makeup. The primer adds a layer of separation between your skin and the makeup so sweat won’t eat through your makeup as quickly. Try a primer that advertises staying power for a long-lasting smooth finish.
3: Go Light with Your Foundation
A heavy foundation will melt off more quickly and can look cakey once you begin to sweat, so lighter options are usually preferable. There are a few different options for lighter sweat-proof foundation depending on your skin type. If you have dry skin, a tinted moisturizer will be your best friend. Tinted moisturizers work to even out skin tone without clogging your pores with a heavy layer. If your skin is oilier, try out a mineral foundation. The powdery consistency will help absorb excess oils throughout the day and provide a matte finish that effectively combats shine.
4: Try Cream-Based Cheek Products
While powder blushes and bronzers are convenient, they just don’t have the same staying-power as cream products. Powdered cheek makeup has a tendency to wear off when combined with moisture (such as sweat). A stick form or cream-based blush or bronzer can be blended seamlessly into the skin and will hold up better to any extra dewiness you collect throughout the day.
5: Waterproof Mascara Is a Must-Have
Smudged mascara is one of the top beauty faux pas, but the hot weather makes it hard to avoid. The main reason mascara ends up smudging is due to excessive moisture, so sweating and oily skin amplify the issue. A waterproof mascara won’t be as sensitive to moisture, so it holds up better to sweat and oily eyelids. While it’s a little trickier to get off (we recommend an oil-based makeup remover) it stays much better throughout the day, even when things get a little damp.
6: Apply a Light Dusting of Setting Powder
If your skin tends to be on the oily side, setting powder will be your savior. The oils from your skin can cause your makeup to break up, slip off, or just generally look greasy. To combat this extra shininess, apply a thin layer of translucent powder over your makeup after application. It can reduce the slipperiness of your makeup as well, leading to a longer-lasting face.
7: Find a Good Setting Spray
Something you might not have in your current routine but is immensely helpful is a good setting spray. A setting spray is applied over your entire face of makeup and helps the makeup settle better and stay on your face longer. It provides a barrier between your makeup and the outside elements, protecting it from disruption by sealing everything in. Additionally, some setting sprays can make your makeup water-resistant, so it’s perfect for beach or pool days when you want to step your look up.
8: Blot Throughout the Day
Even with the best skincare and makeup, greasiness can peek through your makeup and ruin your look. To minimize the greasiness, blotting papers are helpful. Blotting papers can remove excess oil and sweat while leaving your makeup fully in place. They are great for times when you want to look your best—such as a wedding or interview—as they cut down on shininess.
Finding Your Perfect Makeup Routine
Everyone’s skin is unique. Many people find their skin isn’t as dry in the summertime. This is due to the fact that there’s usually a higher humidity in the summer, so the air doesn’t dry your skin out as much as it does during the colder months. Adjust your makeup routine accordingly. If your skin isn’t the same year-round, why should your makeup stay the same? Incorporating some of these tips into your routine can help you tackle the heat and preserve all of the hard work you put into your makeup.
Just because it’s hot outside doesn’t mean you can’t achieve a gorgeous makeup look. These tips are all trade secrets of cosmetologists, just like the ones we train here at Genesis Career College. If you’re interested in helping people feel more confident and beautiful, a career as a cosmetologist might be a good fit.
Let us help you get started on this exciting path. As the health and safety of our students is our top priority, we’re currently offering online admissions appointments.