Okay, let’s be real: makeup melting in the summer heat is the absolute worst. 😩 You start your day with a flawless face, and by lunch, your foundation’s sliding off your skin like it’s on a Slip’N Slide. Ugh. Whether you’re a pro MUA working on clients or just trying to look cute while out and about, it can be tough to keep everything in place when the weather’s playing dirty. But hey, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here’s how to stop your makeup from melting like a popsicle in the sun.
- Start with a Solid Base: Prep is EVERYTHING!
You know how some people think you can skip skincare when you’re in a rush? Well, I’m here to tell you, NEVER SKIP PREP. 💅🏻 I don’t care if you’re 10 minutes late—this step is crucial. Start with a good moisturizer, but not the heavy ones! Opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturizers that’ll hydrate your skin without leaving a greasy mess. And don’t forget the primer! A mattifying or pore-filling primer can be your BFF in hot weather, helping keep that makeup locked down. Trust me, it’ll make all the difference. - Use a Mattifying Foundation and Concealer
If you’re like me, the word “dewy” probably sounds great in theory… until you step outside and feel like you’re walking around with a shiny frying pan on your face. 😅 In hot weather, matte foundations and concealers are your best friends! They help control shine and stay put for hours without slipping and sliding. Think about long-wear formulas—those babies were made for this! - Setting Powder to the Rescue!
We know that setting spray is a must, but let’s not forget about setting powder. It helps absorb excess oils and keeps everything in place. Pat that stuff on your T-zone and areas where you’re most likely to sweat. A translucent, lightweight setting powder is your go-to here. Don’t go too heavy, though—nobody wants a cakey finish. A light dusting will do the trick. - Go Light on the Layers
Layering too much product can create a recipe for disaster when it’s hot out. It’ll just melt off or end up looking like a hot mess (literally). So, skip the thick contour cream, multiple layers of foundation, and heavy blush. Instead, opt for lightweight, buildable products that give you a natural finish. Trust me, less is more when it’s 90+ degrees outside. - Creams Over Powders
If you’re someone who loves powders, I get it! But in the heat, cream formulas will save you. Cream blush, highlighter, and eyeshadows have a better chance of staying put when the temperature’s up. They blend in smoothly and don’t budge as easily as powders. Plus, they give you that soft, glowing finish that won’t leave you looking dry or cakey. - Setting Spray, Baby!
Setting spray is basically a lifesaver for makeup artists. 💦 Think of it as a little shield for your face. A good setting spray (make sure it’s a long-lasting one) locks everything in place and gives your makeup that extra layer of protection. Use it generously—but not too much, because we don’t want a wet look! Just enough to keep your makeup in place, and you’re good to go. - Avoid Touching Your Face
Okay, we all do it—touching our faces is a habit! But in hot weather, this can make your makeup melt off so much quicker. The oils on your hands transfer to your face, and boom, there goes your makeup. Try to keep your hands off your face as much as possible. If you really need to fix something, use a makeup sponge or brush. - Blot, Don’t Rub
If you start to get sweaty or shiny, don’t rub your face! Rubbing just spreads the makeup around and makes you look like a mess. Instead, gently blot with a tissue or oil-absorbing sheet to lift the excess oils without disturbing your makeup. This’ll help refresh your makeup without starting over. - Avoid Hot, Humid Environments (If You Can)
Look, I get it—sometimes you just gotta be out in the heat. But if you have the option to stay indoors or seek shade, take it! Hot, humid environments are the ultimate makeup-melters. So if you’re working on a client, make sure you’re in a climate-controlled space if possible. It’ll make your life (and your makeup) so much easier. - Carry a Touch-Up Kit
Let’s face it, sometimes no matter how much you prep, makeup is gonna need a little help during the day. I keep a small touch-up kit with me for emergencies—like powder, lip balm, and a tiny bit of concealer for those little areas that need a bit of love. This is especially helpful for clients who are out in the sun or doing something active. If you need to freshen up between events or shoots, a quick touch-up will keep your makeup looking fresh all day long.
Look, the heat’s not gonna stop—it’s always gonna be there when you least expect it. But with these tips, you can keep your makeup in check, no matter how hot it gets. 💁♀️ Just remember: prep, choose your products wisely, and don’t forget that setting spray (trust me, it’s a game-changer). With these tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be ready for anything, even in the most sweltering summer heat. 🌞
You got this, babe. Now go out there and keep your makeup flawless in the heat! 👏
