Summer Makeup Tips for a Fresh, Long-Lasting, Sweatproof Look
I was scheduled to attend a college graduation on a sweltering hot and humid New England day. The ceremony was outdoors, with no shade. I was not going to go bare-faced, but I also did not want makeup melting down and off my face. What to do? I turned to some trusted makeup artists and mavens on what to use, and how to apply, and I was stunned at how well my makeup held up. I looked natural and polished, with just the right amount of enhancement. I was comfortable (physically and psychologically), and, well, I looked good. How did I do it? I am here to share tried and tested tips and products for a mid-summer proof face.
The Perfect Base: Lightweight Foundations and Primers
Let’s start at the beginning. We will assume you have your cleaning routine down and are ready to start your makeup routine. It starts with SPF (you know, sun protection factor, even on cloudy days), a primer, and some sort of “foundation”. I put that in quotes because some of these products are multi-function, and some go by other names, such as “tinted moisturizer”, BB creams and CC creams.
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Sun Protection is a Must
Incorporate SPF into your makeup routine to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. We are fans of European formulas from La Roche Posay, and have been dabbling with Korean brands, as well. Make sure you are using enough (read labels), that’s the first step, but then also know what you are using.
In nations like Japan, South Korea, and France, sunscreens contain more advanced chemical filters that offer more comprehensive UV protection compared to those available in the U.S.
What About SPF In Foundations?
Dermatologists agree that foundations that contain SPF should not be relied upon as enough. The SPF in makeup is typically not enough to limit the harmful effects of the sun’s skin-burning ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Prime for Longevity
A primer comes next and will help your foundation stay in place. You can apply a primer, then your foundation, or even mix them together.
Many like a little “radiance” in their primer, but we don’t need extra shine in the summer. I have been using Milk Makeup® Hydro Grip Primer, that I first learned about from Parisian makeup artist Andrea Ali (she is amazing, BTW. Check out her YouTube).
Choose the Right Foundation
Choose lightweight, water-based foundations or BB/CC creams for a seamless finish. For instance, check out IT Cosmetics CC+ Nude Glow Lightweight Foundation and Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint (although the smell can be off-putting, we love the look). Also take a look at MAC Studio Radiance Face and Body Radiant Sheer Foundation. We love this one because we can also use it on our legs or arms, to even out skin tone. This is the one that I put through its paces at the graduation. Perfection.
We are fans of Armani foundations, and they are pricey, but many makeup artists love Armani Power Fabric for its subtle matte finish and ability to stay put, even when sweating.
Do They Work Well Together?
Your skin, plus SPF, plus foundation all have to work well together. Our skin is unique and sometimes a product will work well with one person, and not with another, and then when you factor in layering another product on top, the result can vary.
If you have a favorite SPF product, you might already know if it plays nicely with your range of foundation products. But what if you try a new combo and they don’t? “Pilling” is when a product beads up on the surface of the skin into little “pills” or balls. Sometimes it is your skin’s reaction with the products; other times it is layers of products not agreeing with one another.
Don’t Give Up
It might be one of the products itself, or the combo or products, but do try using less of each product, and also allow dry time in-between layers. The only layer not to skimp on is your SPF, for skin and health safety.
Practice a few times before a big event, so you know your products work well together on your skin.
Application Counts
How you apply your makeup makes a difference in how it looks, and how it lasts. In general, thinner layers work best. If you want more blush, do it in layers.
Also, allowing initial layers to set before going on to a next step can help as well. So, apply your SPF, wait. Apply your primer, wait. Then go onto your foundations, for instance.
We also are big proponents of Beauty Blender sponges, the original version. We have tried many sponges, and none beat this one. Dampen it, squeezing somewhat dry, and use a patting, sponging, and gentle rolling technique to apply foundation.
Concealer
When we are going after a light summer look, we go lightly with concealer. Here are some we have had great success with: Charlotte Tilbury’s Beautiful Skin Radiant Concealer provides medium to full coverage while still looking natural. It is waterproof and is made to stay on all day.
Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Hydrating + De-puffing Concealer has 31 colors, so you can find your match, and users report that “It’s self-setting and very natural, it doesn’t crease on me at all, and I haven’t found a concealer anything like this one on the market.”
I often reach for my tried and true YSL Radiant Touche Eclat. It covers lightly, but effectively, and can be used to highlight any areas you might want to, with its easy-to-use click pen.
Eyeshadow: Go Cream or Liquid
You might opt for no eyeshadow at all, but if you do, creams and liquid give a fresh, light look. Nothing compares to Armani Eye Tints, but they are pricey. They have matte, shimmery, and metallic choices.
MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pots stay put and there are many colors, both satiny, matte and shimmery. we also like Charlotte Tilbury Eyes To Mesmerize, with their soufflé-like texture. Speaking of soufflés, check out Lise Waiter Ombre Soufflé Suprême. You might not know this Canadian brand, but you should.
Blush and Bronzer
We love a simple monochromatic look, summer or winter, and if you have a blush or bronzer product that is eye-safe (read labels), a little on the cheek, the eyelid, and maybe across the bridge of the nose can look fresh, summery and youthful.
We tend to like products that are sheer, yet buildable, for maximum versatility. The new Armani Luminous Silk Cheek Tintis gaining traction (try the Rosy Peach). The first Merit product we tried, the Flush Balm in a peachy “Beverly Hills” color, have become the blush we reach for than any other.
And even though Glossier Cloud Paint Gel Cream Blush is not new, we still use it all the time. Colors Puff and Dawn are faves.
Blush & Lips
Look into multi-use products and this summer we have been playing with Milk Cooling Water Jelly Tint. Four colors (red, berry, pink, coral) that can be used on cheeks and lips. Easy, even fun, to apply, a little goes a long way, and they stay put with a stain-like effect.
Don’t Be Afraid of Color
A bright pop of color is not only fun, but very on -point, trend-wise. A simple swipe of bright eyeliner, or juicy lips are the easiest entry points, if you think you are color shy. This isn’t so much about makeup longevity, but more about addressing a current, colorful approach and pushing you gently with your makeup boundaries (because those are only self-imposed). This should be fun!
Keep the Shine at Bay
Sweatproof makeup means keeping the shine down to a minimum, but you do not want an all-over dry, powdery look.
Mattify Only Where Needed
Your “T-Zone” is the forehead and down the nose. This is the area that typically needs some help.
Powders like Laura Mercier Shine Control Pressed Setting Powder work well, keeping your skin looking fresh. Also take a look at a very sheer product, like Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Powder, loose or pressed. It has a blurring property, is incredibly light and if you are “not a powder person”, try this product! You might rethink your stance.
Blotting Papers
Keep blotting papers handy for fast fixes. They’re ideal for soaking up extra oil without smudging your makeup. Fenty Beauty’s blotting papers offer both style and efficiency. E.l.f. has a budget option with their Shine Eraser.
Highlight Strategically
We don’t always add highlighter in the midst of sweltering summer heat, but when we do, we do so with restraint. Perhaps a touch on the cheekbones, perhaps the temples and that’s it. But the point of makeup is to do what you like!
Right now, we are loving Saie Glowy Super Gel Lightweight Dewy Multipurpose Illuminator, as a gel-type. If you like powder, try Rare Beauty Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter.
Lip Colors That Stay Put
We are huge fans of lip stains, as we get color with longevity, and then we can touch up with a gloss or balm on top.
Fenty Poutsicle Hydrating Lip Stain only has 6 colors, but they are smashing! Particularly Mai Type and Strawberry Sangria. They stain, last, but are one of the few that are not drying. Colourpop Glossy Lip Stain is economical and comes in many colors. Some say Clarins Water Lip Stain is moisturizing and the best for dry lips.
For topping stains, check out glosses and balms, such as classic Chanel Rouge Coco Gloss and Guerlain Kisskiss Bee Glow Lip Balm. For budget, check out e.l.f and Burt’s Bees brands for both.
Eyeliner That Stays Put – Even On The Waterline
Make Up for Ever Aqua Resist Color Pencil Eyeliner was what I wore at my sweltering event. Why try to recreate what works?
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil is another in my arsenal. And they have so many colors, both natural/classic, and bright, bold and fun.
Setting Spray
Maybe you do not typically use a setting spray, but this is the time you should, so it can work for you! Setting sprays can lock makeup into place, plus keep shine at bay.
Urban Decay’s All Nighter Setting Spray is a fan favorite, as is Make Up For Ever Mist + Fix, which comes in Hydrating and Matte. I like the minis (both brands), which are easy to tote.
PS: I apply setting spray after I have applied everything EXCEPT mascara. Let the spray dry, then apply mascara. If you apply mascara first, the spray will make it bleed and run.
Mascara To Beat The Heat
I will put it out there that I have yet to find a holy grail waterproof mascara. I am still looking for one I love as much as my favorite non-waterproof ones, but here are some that keep popping up on “best” lists. On the luxury end is Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Waterproof Mascara. It makes for dramatic lashes that stay put, and helps with curling, too.
For drugstore, Maybelline New York Great Lash Waterproof Mascara is one to try. It’s been around for a long time, has legions of fans, and while it gives a fairly natural look, I happen to think that looks better with a light summer look. This one never seems to clump, either.
Your Hands Can Work Well, Too
Applying SPF, primer and foundation with your hands allows you to really work product into your skin, as opposed to applying it in a way where it lays on top. The warmth of your hands can help – or not.
This is where your individual skin texture comes into play. For some people, applying these base layers with a brush works best. Others reach for a sponge, like the aforementioned Beauty Blender, but don’t overlook your hands, or at the very least, experiment to see what works for you.
The Takeaway
Perfecting summer makeup revolves around finding the right balance. By choosing the appropriate products and applying the correct techniques, you can maintain a vibrant, durable look even in warm weather. Focus on sun protection, opt for light formulas, and experiment! Practice makes perfect. By adhering to these guidelines, you can keep your makeup impeccable throughout the summer season. Step out into the sunshine assured that your makeup is up to the challenge!
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One Swipe Lipstick: Easy Luscious Lips
Given the popularity of our article on One and Done Eyeshadows, we thought we would put our focus on that other luscious facial feature – lips! Some lipsticks demand careful application and end up with a very made-up look (no shade, just not what we always want). This article is about those one-swipe lipsticks that you can just grab and apply, even without a mirror. No liners or application expertise needed. Want to look polished quickly and easily? These are the lipsticks and lip products you need – and some are less than $5!
READ: One Swipe Lipstick: Easy Luscious Lips
And For Eyeshadow Lovers…
Some of us put on a full face of makeup every single day, while others go bare-faced. But there is definitely something to be said for a middle of the road approach. Enter the concept of the “one and done” eyeshadow. No need to master blending, eyeshadow placement, or multiple colors. The beauty of this approach is that there are eyeshadows that can be swept across the lid – and that’s it. You will look polished. Like your best you, with minimal effort. Check out the article.
Interested in “Clean” Beauty? You Need To Read This
So many of us are interested in self-improvement, from maintaining or enhancing our physical appearance, to tending to our mental well-being. In recent years, one trend that has gained significant traction in this pursuit is “clean beauty”—an umbrella term encompassing various approaches and products designed to promote healthier skin and a clearer conscience. But what does “clean beauty” mean? Read THIS!
Makeup Brands You Might Not Know, But Should
It used to be that makeup was roughly divided into two worlds: discount brands that you could get at the drugstore, and the high-end brands available at better department stores. Thankfully, for us makeup lovers, the world of makeup has never been more vast or more accessible. From economical to pricy splurges, we have some suggestions for you about brands and specific products that we bet are new-to-you. Which will you try first? Note: We have listed and linked websites, but many of the products are available on Amazon as well – for almost instant gratification! Read the article.
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Last update on 2024-09-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
