In India, merely stepping out during the summer feels like a sauna. The sweltering summer afternoons can leave you sweaty in seconds. And there are no extra points for guessing who its first victim is - your freshly done makeup. But not anymore - phew! Right from how to prep your skin to what makeup formulations to choose, we’ve covered everything that will keep the sweat from smearing your makeup. So ladies, get ready to take screenshots, because we’re spilling the beans on the best ways to make your makeup sweat proof this summer.
Tip #1: Minimal Skincare
Avoiding thick and greasy skincare products in your AM routine is your first step towards achieving fool-proof makeup. Pick lighter formulations and follow a simple 4-step routine - cleanser, serum, moisturizer and SPF. Keep in mind to pick ingredients that will help control oiliness and sweat. Vitamin C and niacinamide are great picks for this sweat szn. Pick a gel-based moisturizer and mattifying sunscreen for added shine-control.
What to keep in mind: Allow your skincare and SPF to be fully absorbed into your skin before you start with your makeup. Not keeping ample gaps in between can also lead to melting of your makeup.
Tip #2: Don’t Skimp On Primer
Along with blurring pores, a primer is really like a glue that holds your makeup together. Today, you’ll find a primer that is suited for almost every skin type and concern, but as for summer, pick one which is water-proof, sweat-proof and/or mattifying if your skin is especially oily.
What to keep in mind: Give your primer at least a minute to set before applying your base makeup.
Tip #3: Re-consider Your Base Makeup
If your foundation and concealer is simply not adjusting well to the summer heat, you might want to reconsider their formulations. While you can surely play around with different options, one good way is apply a lighter layer of these products. Alternatively, you can also pick formulas that are better suited for summer skin. From tinted moisturizers, BB and CC creams to skin tints - these sheer to medium coverage, lightweight base products will keep you looking fresh and crease-free.
What to keep in mind: You can also mix a little moisturizer with your foundation for a natural, sweat-free look.
Tip #4: Don’t Forget To Set
Using a setting powder or a compact powder is one of the non-negotiable steps. Because you’re not only setting all your hardwork in place, but also mattifying the parts that get oily pretty quickly and easily. This can be the T-zone, chin and cheeks. Use a fluffy brush to graze the powder in these areas and prevent your makeup from creasing and melting.
What to keep in mind: If you let the powder rest for 30-40 seconds and then buff it away, it holds on to your makeup better.
Tip #5: Pick A Cream Blush
We’re all heart for powder blushes, but for summer, using cream blushes will be a game changer. Since they are very pigmented, a little goes a long way. Plus, they blend easily, do not turn ashy, and are ideal for that ‘sunkissed summer look.’
What to keep in mind: Apply the blush in a ‘W’ shape - from the high points of your cheek going over the nose to the other side. Then blend it out for a seamless, sunkissed glow.
Tip #6: Only Waterproof Eye Makeup
Gurl, you surely shouldn’t have to deal with smudged kohl or mascara, EVER. And for that, it is important that you pick water-proof formulas for your eye makeup. They will fight sweat and stay put all day without budging. So swap your kohl, liner, mascara and eyeshadow with a water-resistant or water-proof formula ASAP.
Tip #7: Pick Smudge-Proof Lipsticks
Smudge-proof, long lasting lipsticks are your BFF during those hot summer days. They stay put for long hours, do not require frequent touch-ups and can withstand sweat easily. Liquid lipsticks are the best pick here - they dry to a velvety, matte finish and are super comfortable for all-day wear.
Tip #8: Spritz The Setting Spray
You really CANNOT leave your house without applying a setting spray. Once you see how well it can hold your makeup and fight off sweat, you’ll fall in love with them. From dewy finish to matte, you can pick one based on your preference. Then all you have to do is hold the spray about 12 inches from your face and mist it until your entire face is covered, and allow it to completely dry.
Tip #9: Use Blotting Papers
If your skin is oily or you tend to sweat easily, meet your BAE. Blotting papers can easily absorb excess shine and sweat, as compared to using a hanky or tissue which can smear your makeup. Plus, they are so small in size and can fit literally anywhere. Just grab a couple sheets and dab away!
