This post shares the top makeup tips for summer, hot weather, and humid climates. Learn how to keep your makeup intact and sweat-proof.
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As the temperatures continue to rise and the sun shines brighter, it’s time to update your makeup routine for the summer season.
Whether you’re a beauty enthusiast, a beginner in makeup, or someone planning a vacation, summer makeup requires special attention.
The heat, humidity, and increased exposure to the elements can wreak havoc on your look.
But don’t worry.
This guide will walk you through the best makeup tips for summer, helping you achieve a radiant, long-lasting look despite the rising temperatures.
Changes To Make in Our Summer Makeup Routine
There are few things we tend to change in our summer makeup routine.
The heavier creams and foundations we reach for in the colder months can feel suffocating and might melt off due to sweat and humidity.
With the hot weather, many people are seeking a lighter and more natural look that will give them that perfect sun-kissed glow.
This isn’t to say that we won’t still be wearing a full face of makeup. Because we are!
But, I’ll show you the best swaps to make in your makeup routine to ensure it stays flawless all day long, even in the summer heat.
Prepping Your Skin for Summer
Before we even begin talking about makeup products, let’s talk about skin care.
The key to flawless and long-lasting makeup during the summer is first, and foremost, a good skincare routine.
Make sure to exfoliate weekly to remove any build-up of sweat or sunscreen on your skin.
Opt for lightweight moisturizers and serums that won’t feel heavy on your skin.
And don’t forget to apply SPF before starting your makeup application!
This will protect your skin from harmful UV rays and provide a good base for your makeup.
Skincare Essentials
The hot weather can make your skin oily and prone to breakouts, so starting with a clean slate is crucial.
Many times, double cleansing is necessary. An oil-based cleanser is the best at getting off that sunscreen and any water-proof products.
Then, use a gentler cleanser to clean off the oil residue and any remaining impurities.
Depending on your personal preference and skin type you can use a toner or essence next.
This will help balance the pH levels and remove any excess dirt or makeup that may have been missed during cleansing.
Next, consider incorporating a hydrating serum into your routine to maintain moisture without the greasy feel.
Hyaluronic acid is an excellent choice as it hydrates without clogging pores.
I prefer a multi-peptide serum though. It’s great for all skin types and nourishes the skin on a few more levels than just hyaluronic acid alone.
Follow this up with a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer. Many times your sunscreen can take the place of this.
I have a full breakdown of some of the best sunscreens you can have in my post here.
If you’re going to a special event, I would still recommend a sweat-proof makeup primer, but it isn’t necessary for every day.
Lightweight Foundations
Now let’s talk about those heavy foundations. It’s time to swap them out for something lighter.
Opt for a tinted moisturizer, skin tint, or a BB cream instead. These types of products provide coverage while still letting your skin breathe.
You can also mix in some liquid highlighter with your foundation to give it that summer-dewy look.
If you prefer fuller coverage, try using a drop of facial oil in your heavier foundations. This will sheer it out and give it a more natural look without compromising on staying power.
One of the best higher-end skin tints is this one from Hourglass. It truly makes for a flawless face and is one of the best long-lasting formulas out there.
On the budget side the Maybelline Super Stay is a fan-favorite. This budge-proof skin tint will stay in place and is really great if you have oily skin.
Check out more lightweight foundation options down below.
Concealers That Won’t Move
Next up is concealer, because let’s face it, we all need a little coverage under our eyes and on any pesky blemishes.
But in the summer heat, you don’t want your concealer melting off or settling into fine lines.
So choosing the right concealer is SO important and one of the best makeup tips for summer I can share.
You’ll want to look for ones that have more of a natural or matte finish. Basically these types of formulations will self-set in a sense and just grip onto your skin better.
And with concealer – a little goes a long way! So remember to stay light-handed with it.
Don’t forget to set your concealer with a lightweight setting powder to lock it in place.
Creams and Liquid Blushes and Bronzers
Blush and bronzer are essential for giving your skin that healthy glow, but during hot and humid weather, they can easily fade or look patchy.
Cream and liquid products are your best friends during the summer months.
They blend seamlessly into the skin and offer a more natural finish compared to just powders alone.
A big trend during this time is that almost ‘sunburnt’ look. We’re not trying to actually look sunburned, but reaching for more bronze or copper colors will give you that sun-kissed look without the damage.
Selena Gomez’s makeup artist, Melissa Murdick has a quick and easy TikTok showcasing this type of look. Check it out below!
After you’ve applied your cream blush and bronzer, then you can lightly brush on their powder companion to lock in your look.
Priming Eyelids and Waterproof Products
Once you’ve achieved that sun-kissed glow with your creams and liquid blushes and bronzers, it’s essential to ensure your eye makeup stays put through the summer heat.
The last thing you want is your eye shadow melting off by midday.
Prime your eyelids with a good-quality primer to ensure your makeup stays put.
This step is crucial for anyone with oily lids or those planning to be out in the heat for extended periods.
Makeup that does double-duty is also so handy. Use the liquid or cream bronzer from your face and bring onto your eyelids as well.
Then, set it with a bronzer powder to achieve that perfect summery look.
Honestly, any cream or liquid eyeshadow is going to give your summer makeup look that much more staying power. I love, LOVE, love the Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eyeshadows, but L’oreal recently launched its own cream shadow sticks that give it a run for its money!
If you love using eyeliner and mascara, opt for a waterproof formula.
Waterproof mascara and eyeliner will ensure your makeup stays in place even if you sweat, get caught in the rain if you’re heading to a tropical climate, or even get splashed with water.
Just make sure to remove them gently at the end of the day with an oil-based cleanser to avoid damaging your lashes. Or, you could also opt for getting a lash lift and tint. I have an entire blog post explaining the benefits of it here.
I’ve also just discovered this Ardell Brow Glue to help tame your eyebrows and keep them in place no matter what Summer activities you get into.
Lip Tints and Stains
Lipstick tends to move around and melt off no matter the season, but disappears even quicker in hot weather. That doesn’t mean you need to give up wearing color on your lips.
Instead, opt for lip stains or tints that will give you a long-lasting pop of color without the worry of smudging or melting off.
These products are designed to “stain” your lips, giving you a natural-looking color that can last for hours. Just make sure to read the directions on how to apply and remove them so you get the best results.
Just like with blushes and bronzers, having a base like this is so helpful under your normal products like lip gloss for instance.
Lip gloss will quickly wear off. That’s just its nature. But, having your lips stained will ensure that you still have a hint of color even after your gloss or even lip balm has faded.
Plus, many lip stains and tints have added moisturizing ingredients to keep your lips hydrated in the heat.
Setting Spray for a Lasting Finishing Touch
Last but certainly not least, setting spray is an absolute must-have in your summer makeup routine.
But here’s the thing, not all setting sprays are created equal.
Opt for a setting spray (not finishing spray) that specifically mentions its staying power and ability to withstand sweat and humidity.
One popular option is the Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray. It’s been tested to last up to 16 hours even in hot and humid conditions.
Make sure to apply it after you’ve finished your entire makeup routine for maximum effectiveness, and even layer in between as you’re applying your makeup. That’s another great makeup tip I learned a while back.
Some of my other favorite, long-lasting setting sprays are down below. Most of these are even great for special occasions like a Summer Wedding or Outdoor Party.
Day-to-Night Looks
Versatile Makeup Ideas for Summer
Transforming your look from day to night shouldn’t be a hassle.
Start with a simple summer makeup look in the morning—think neutral eyeshadows, a light layer of mascara, and a peachy-nude lip.
Transition to an evening look by adding more dramatic elements. Deepen your eyes with a darker eyeliner and swap your nude lip for a vibrant red or berry tone.
Of course, blot away any excess oil you’ve built up during the day. Then, lightly reapply some powder in those areas like your T-Zone.
Multitasking makeup products are perfect for this. Use a cream blush that doubles as a lip tint or eyeshadow. These quick changes can elevate your look without needing a complete overhaul, making your summer evenings just as stunning as your days.
Two More Essential Summer Makeup Tips You Wouldn’t Believe
Sweat-Proof Makeup Tip
Apart from using waterproof products, this sweat-proof makeup tip comes from former NFL Cheerleader, Tiffany C Rosania.
She recently went viral on TikTok and her tip is what she learned while performing under those heavy lights and hot weather. Watch the clip here.
Basically, you take an anti-perspirent and rub it along your hairline. Yes, that’s right, actual anti-perspirent.
A deodorant will not work so don’t get those mixed up!
But, apply the antiperspirant to your hairline and the back of your neck. Use your figure to gently rub it in. This will prevent sweat from your hair dripping down onto your face, which could ruin your makeup.
Genius!
Now this is something that’s only recommended for special occasions, not everyday. But, it’s a great tip to have handy when you need.
Prevent Sunglasses from Smudging Your Makeup
Wearing sunglasses outdoors is a must to protect your eyes, no matter the season.
But it can also cause some pesky makeup smudging on the bridge of your nose, especially during warmer weather.
To prevent this, apply a thin layer of eyeshadow primer on the area where the sunglasses will sit.
This will create a barrier and keep your makeup in place.
Then, take whatever face powder or translucent powder you have and dust it onto the bridge of the sunglasses.
This will prevent any oils from your skin or makeup from transferring onto the sunglasses that cause smudging.
This simple trick can save you from constantly having to touch up your makeup throughout the day.
Overall,
Summer makeup presents its own unique set of challenges, but with the right tips and products, you can stay looking flawless no matter the temperature.
From prepping your skin to choosing the right products and mastering versatile looks, these makeup tips for summer will keep you radiant and confident.
Ready to up your summer makeup game?
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