I’ve thought about ways to beat the heat so this summer, I’ve opted for slides and light, cotton/linen clothes to stay cool. I’ve also been having a lot of ice cream, and I take trips to the beach as often as I can.

But how do you make your makeup last in this heat?

Many makeup and skincare brands create products specific for humid days. That’s why you’ll read the words “waterproof” or “long-lasting” on the labels.

So many products in the tropics use their wear time as main selling point: if they can last more than eight hours, we assume that they’re built to withstand the elements.

 

 

Setting sprays

Because it’s humid, we try to compensate with an array of products. There is the multitude of setting sprays to make sure your makeup stays on like a mask. Primers also go up in popularity. A lot of brands change their packaging to encourage you to bring them wherever you go for quick touch-ups. Powders also abound.

So when it comes to summer makeup, does the “more is more” philosophy work? Perhaps for some it does. But for me, I’m on “Team Less is More.” In this heat, the best makeup is the kind you don’t need to fuss about the whole day. And given the damage the sun can cause, it’s all about skincare.

For primer, I recommend something that has a high SPF. NARS Smooth & Protect Primer with SPF 50 is a good choice. On its own, it makes your skin look better as it reduces fine lines and wrinkles, plus it also keeps the oiliness at bay.

Next comes your foundation. Don’t cake or layer it on. You skin needs to breathe so try to apply it lightly and just on the areas where you really need coverage. Use a stippling brush so you can spread the foundation evenly. I think you can even get away with a powder foundation these days more than cream or liquid formulations. You can try something like The Body Shop’s All in One Face Base that has a matte finish and comes in a compact for on-the-go touch-ups.

 

Summer rule

As for blush/bronzer, my summer rule is to avoid color. Blush can look a bit unnatural, especially when the rest of your makeup has faded. Bronzer looks more natural as the day goes by, and looks good in the summer as it enhances that tanned look. It’s better to look sun-kissed than washed out! Try the Too Faced Soleil Bronzer, which has real cocoa powder to enhance that summer feeling.

My last weapon against the heat is a good and refreshing facial mist. It helps your skin feel less dehydrated and automatically gives your face a natural glow. On top of makeup, a face mist will help it meld to your skin better. I hoard the Mario Badescu Facial Spray with aloe, herbs and rosewater. I bring a bottle wherever I go. It’s a lifesaver and worth every cent.