As temperatures rise, maintaining a flawless makeup look becomes increasingly challenging. The intense heat and humidity of summer can wreak havoc on even the most carefully applied makeup, causing it to melt, slide, and separate. However, with the right techniques and products, you can achieve a fresh, radiant look that lasts all day.
Makeup artist and Laura Geller Beauty founder Laura Geller shares her expert advice on adapting your makeup routine for summer heatwaves. From lightweight foundations to strategic application techniques, these tips will help you beat the heat and look your best all season long.
Lighten up your makeup routine
The key to summer makeup is to lighten up. Heavy layers of makeup are more likely to separate, crease, and slide around in the heat. Instead, opt for lightweight, breathable products that allow your skin to breathe. A skin tint or serum foundation can provide light coverage while keeping your skin looking fresh and radiant.
Consider scaling back your full-face routine and focusing on strategic concealing. This approach will help you achieve a natural, glowing look that lasts all day. Remember, less is more when it comes to summer makeup.
Avoid heavy, full-coverage foundation
While a full-coverage base may seem reassuring, it’s often the first thing to fail in high temperatures. Heat, humidity, and perspiration can cause thicker formulas to break apart and look patchy as the day progresses. Instead, swap your heavy foundation for a lightweight option that evens out your complexion without weighing it down.
Look for foundations infused with skincare ingredients that offer a luminous, medium-coverage finish. These formulas smooth rather than mask the skin, helping it look fresh and radiant even in warm weather. Some popular options include the Clarins Double Serum Foundation and the No7 Prime Forever SPF50 Primer.
Blotting is key
When shine starts appearing, it’s tempting to reach for more powder. However, over-powdering can cling to texture, emphasise dryness, and leave skin looking cakey. Instead, use blotting papers or a tissue to gently remove excess oil and sweat before reapplying makeup. This technique will help you maintain a natural, dewy finish without adding unnecessary weight to your skin.
Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate every bit of glow. A healthy, summertime radiance is something to embrace. Just be sure to blot strategically and reapply makeup only where it’s needed.
Allow SPF to absorb
One of the biggest mistakes people make is not allowing their sunscreen enough time to absorb into the skin before applying makeup. This can cause your foundation to pill or separate, leading to an uneven, patchy finish. To avoid this issue, apply your sunscreen generously and give it time to settle before reaching for your foundation.
Geller recommends applying your SPF, then taking a break to make a coffee or attend to other tasks before starting your makeup routine. This will create a smoother canvas and help prevent product from slipping around throughout the day.
Choose the right setting spray
Not all setting sprays are created equal. Some are designed to add radiance, while others focus on longevity. To keep your makeup in place without making your skin feel dry or tight, opt for a lightweight setting spray that locks makeup in place while maintaining a healthy, skin-like finish.
The Saie CitySet Lightweight Setting Spray is an excellent option for those looking to achieve a long-lasting, natural-looking finish. This mist helps lock makeup in place while preserving a healthy, radiant complexion that’s particularly flattering on mature skin.
