In the scorching heat of summer, even the most meticulously applied makeup can falter, leaving us in a state of disarray. But fear not, for the beauty artists and professionals in the know have some tricks up their sleeves to ensure your makeup lasts through the sweltering days. Let's dive into the secrets they swear by, and uncover the art of surviving extreme heat with your makeup intact.
The Power of Lightweight Preparation
One of the most common mistakes we make in the heat is over-preparing our skin. Leiya Phinao Ningshen, a renowned makeup artist who has worked with the likes of Ashley Graham and Shabana Azmi, advises against over-moisturizing before makeup application. "Over-moisturizing can cause products to break down and slide throughout the day," she explains. Instead, she recommends lightweight, fast-absorbing hydration that leaves skin balanced. Amanda K, another expert in the field, agrees, suggesting a cleansing routine followed by lightweight, water-based skincare before applying a mattifying gripping primer. For those seeking an extra boost, Hila suggests using liquid magnesium as a primer, which helps control oil and sweat, ensuring makeup stays fresh for longer.
Less is More: The Lighter Base
During summer, the instinct to reach for heavier coverage is understandable, but professionals tend to do the opposite. Hila recommends using a tinted SPF as the foundation base and colour-correcting only where needed. This approach keeps the skin looking fresh and prevents makeup from feeling heavy. Amanda K echoes this sentiment, suggesting spot correction instead of a full-coverage base. By using less product, you reduce the chances of separation, creasing, and patchiness throughout the day. Ningshen, too, relies on thin, well-blended layers of makeup, creating a more durable finish that wears beautifully.
The Art of Strategic Layering
Strategic layering is a technique that appears repeatedly in professional kits. Nadine Elias, a Dubai-based makeup artist, recommends using setting spray throughout the application process, not just as the final step. "Layer your setting spray after skincare, after applying your base, and for finishing touches," she advises. This technique ensures that your makeup stays in place. Hila also employs a similar strategy with blush and bronzer, layering cream blush with powder blush to prevent colour from fading in the heat. One of Elias's favorite backstage tricks is spraying a concealer brush with setting spray before blending, maximizing wear time.
Targeted Powder Application
When it comes to powder, the experts unanimously agree that more is not necessarily better. Ningshen focuses on areas prone to excess oil and perspiration, particularly the T-zone. Elias takes an equally targeted approach, suggesting blotting powder on the chin, nasolabial folds, and sides of the nose rather than the whole face. She also recommends tubing mascara to avoid smudging and lip stains for lightweight colour that lasts. Dusting powder over lip liner before lipstick can extend wear time, ensuring your lips stay fresh and vibrant throughout the day.
Heat-Proof Products for the Win
The professionals keep certain products in their kits to ensure longevity in extreme heat. Milk Hydro Grip Primer, MAC Studio Fix Fluid SPF15 24HR Matte Foundation, Tarte Shape Tape™ Medium Coverage Radiant Concealer, Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Baking & Setting Powder, Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara, and Benefit Benetint Cheek & Lip Stain are some of the go-to products. Onesize On 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray is another essential, ensuring your makeup stays put even in the most humid conditions.
In the end, the makeup that survives extreme heat is rarely the heaviest makeup in the room. It's the lightweight preparation, strategic layering, and formulas that work with the skin rather than sit on top of it. So, the next time you're facing a scorching summer day, remember these tips and tricks to keep your makeup looking fresh and flawless. Because in summer, less really can be more.
