If you have never been a victim of runny makeup in the summer, consider yourself #blessed. The summer heat brings about new challenges for makeup lovers, especially if you prefer a matte finish. Here are a few tips to avoid that greasy look this summer.
First things first...wear a sunscreen of your choice under your makeup regardless of the season. Rain, Sleet, or summer beat-down, your skin will appreciate you and you will have less wrinkle-prone skin if you apply SPF daily.
Sweat is a natural part of the human experience. If you live in a hot climate like I do, then you know there is no escaping sweat. There is no amount of makeup that will stop your sweat glands from doing what they were designed to do, so back away from the layers of setting powder while you’re ahead.
To keep your makeup on point this summer, you could wear less makeup, but if you’re in the mood for full coverage, I suggest the following things:
#1: Apply a non-greasy, lightweight moisturizer after you cleanse your skin.
The Aveeno Positively Radiant Sheer Daily Moisturizer is a great product for moisturizing the skin that also includes SPF 30. Kill two birds with one stone, eh? And that’s the key to flawless makeup in hot weather— less is more. But that does not mean you have to sacrifice the look you’re going for.
*Optional tip: Apply your favorite mattifying setting spray before you apply your primer. Apply the setting spray after you’ve completed your makeup, as well. *
#2: Apply an oil-free primer.
I am not big on mattifying primers because I find it too drying for my skin, but if it works for you, go for it. My go-to primer for summer is Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer. It glides on smoothly and I find that it blurs away the natural shininess of my skin without leaving my makeup cakey.
#3: Find an oil-free foundation that’s medium coverage with a satin to soft matte finish.
This will create a nice glow for the skin. My go-to foundation for the summer is Fenty Beauty’s Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Foundation. It’s made with climate-adaptive technology that’s sweat and humidity resistant. Thank you, Bad Gal Rih Rih!
#4: Avoid putting a lot of product in the oilier areas of your face.
For me, that’s around my nose. Piling on makeup in those areas will force your pores to produce MORE oil and that’s the last thing anyone wants.
#5: Lightly dust your setting powder where you’ve used liquid highlighter/concealer.
Again, less is more when it comes to powder. And I find that there is no need to "bake" your setting powder since summer calls for a more natural glow. The same applies to all over the face setting or pressed powders.
#6: Apply a very generous amount of your favorite mattifying setting spray.
For extra security, take blotting paper and your pressed powder compact in your bag (swag…I love a good Beyoncé reference).
With these tricks, you’re bound to have a flawless, photo-ready makeup look for that mid-summer wedding or day party in the city. Get your life and don’t get caught slipping in these treacherous streets.
Check out these bougie drink recipes to help keep the sweat at bay.