7 Ways to Summer-Proof Your Makeup Even When the Weather’s Baking
Main image – Dianevilladsen/Stocksy
With summer on its way, things around here are certainly looking up. But with glorious blue skies, sunny evenings and ice cream on tap comes sweatier skin and, therefore, shorter-lived makeup. “Achieving a fresh and lasting makeup look during summer can be challenging due to the heat and humidity,” says makeup artist Ashley Nichole Gibson.
But entering into sunshine season doesn’t mean you have to stop wearing makeup completely. There are ways to keep yours well and truly on and for it to look more glowy, less sweaty.
Keep scrolling for expert tips from Gibson, as well as a few personal experiences from me too, including my go-to face SPF that doesn’t make my summer skin greasy.
1. Prep your skin
Ensuring your skin is well-prepped for humidity starts with your skincare. “Preparation is essential,” says Gibson. “Start with a clean, hydrated face. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated without making it greasy.”
2. Use a primer
“A good primer can help to minimize pores and create a smooth base for your makeup, ensuring it lasts longer, even in hot weather,” she explains.
3. Use a light base
When it comes choosing your base, Gibson says to opt for lighter formulas. “Go light on coverage by swapping heavy foundations for lighter options like BB creams or tinted moisturizers,” she explains. “These products provide coverage while feeling light, making them perfect for summer.”
Image – Ohlamourstudio/Stocksy
4. Use an SPF spray
Everyone needs a decent facial SPF to take with them into the summer months. You should reapply SPF every two hours to protect your skin from UV rays, even if you’re wearing makeup that contains it. But hands up who hates applying a cream on top of their base! Me too. It’s a recipe for ruined, greasy makeup.
I swear by Kate Somerville Uncomplikated SPF 50 Soft Focus Makeup Setting Spray (£34 from Cult Beauty UK /$44 from Kate Somerville US) which has been designed to go over makeup and contains SPF 50. Spray generously so that you have covered your entire face, and it will protect your skin and stay grease-free, whilst ensuring your makeup doesn’t budge. It’s a staple item in my summer handbag.
5. Go waterproof with your eye makeup
“Avoid smudging with waterproof mascaras and eyeliners, which are a must to prevent smudging and running due to sweat and humidity,” Gibson says. I’ve found that with a waterproof mascara, even if you get caught out in the summer rain wearing it you’ll arrive home with zero black streaks running down your face.
6. Go for a natural look
During the summer, most people like to go for a more subtle makeup look. Gibson says cream formulas are best. “For a natural, dewy finish, cream blush and eyeshadows can give a more natural look, perfect for summer,” she explains.
7. Matte finishes are good for oily skin
Whilst you may not need them during the winter, matte products can really help to reduce your summer skin’s sweaty sheen. “Opt for a matte finish to control shine throughout the day,” Gibson says. “Blotting paper can also be a quick fix to absorb excess oil without messing up your makeup.”
The takeaway
The above tips should stand you in good stead for a natural summer glow, rather than a sweaty summer show (sorry, couldn’t resist).
So, doing things like investing in a good oil-free moisturiser and lightweight primer will eventually stop your makeup from getting clogged up during the humidity. Switch from heavy winter foundations to lighter, sheerer textures like BB creams and opt for waterproof eye makeup to avoid sweat-induced smudges.
“Remember the goal is to feel comfortable and confident in your makeup, regardless of the weather and implementing these tips can help you maintain a beautiful, radiant look even in the heat of summer,” says Gibson.
Meet the expert
Ashley Nichole Gibson is a licensed aesthetician and makeup artist who owns Paraposh, which provides on-site makeup services. Specialising in bridal makeup, her experience also extends to training and education for cosmetic brands, conducting master classes at Ulta, and working as a makeup artist at QVC for beauty brands.
Get Glowing!
