It’s summer and you want to feel hot — but only in the figurative sense. You want that magic summer glow — but without the sheen of sweat. And you probably prefer that your makeup stay put, rather than melt slowly off your face.
Are these pipe dreams or realistic goals? To find out, we asked makeup artists, educators, and estheticians from The Makeup Academy in New York City to answer our burning questions about summer makeup that can survive the heat, humidity, and sun.
Q: How can I stop my makeup from smudging or rubbing off when I sweat?
“Proper setting! Make sure to set any cream placed on the face with a powder. For extra sweat-prone or oily areas, press the powder in more firmly. Using waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and eye primer will also stop the makeup from transferring onto skin when the skin produces oil.” — Emma Velazquez, cosmetic and artistry education specialist
“A great way to keep makeup from smudging, smearing and rubbing off when you sweat is to hydrate the skin first and foremost! I recommend starting with a water-based moisturizer. The more hydrated the skin is, the better the makeup wears in heat and humidity. Also, hydrating the skin with a facial spray like MAC Fix + will deliver continuous hydration and help to keep the makeup intact as the weather heats up.” — Jillyan Scarpa, makeup artist and esthetician
Q: What do I do about summer shine? Combat it? Embrace it?
“We all love glowing and radiant skin, and that can be accomplished with various makeup products. Shine, on the other hand, is usually in the T-zone (comprising the forehead, nose, and cheeks). These areas have the most pores that create sebum. Using a translucent powder takes away the shine and keeps makeup in its place.” — Jillyan Scarpa
“Beauty standards tell us that we must combat our ‘flaws,’ but what if we change the narrative from ‘shine’ to ‘dewy?’ I like to embrace my shine; I feel like it is that ‘glow-from-within’ look. You must decide what makes you comfortable, what brings you joy. You can embrace it and think of it as a natural highlighter or combat it with some products such as simple oil-absorbing sheets.” — Erin Geddes, esthetician
Q: What are some common mistakes people make with summer makeup?
“A common mistake is applying heavy face makeup, like full coverage liquid and cream foundations. Summer is a great time to let your skin breathe. I love tinted moisturizers. They help to even out the skin and are very lightweight. If I need a little more coverage, I apply a concealer to that specific area (under eyes, a blemish) and finish with translucent powder and my skin is summer ready.” — Jillyan Scarpa
“One of the biggest mistakes I see is so much makeup, and not enough skincare! I promise if you have a great skincare routine, you do not need to wear as much makeup, especially when it is hot and humid!” — Erin Geddes
Q: I want to try using more color, but I don’t know where to start. Any advice?
“Color is easier to incorporate into your look than you might realize! A subtle inner corner highlight or a touch of colored mascara on the lower lashes can give you the slight pop you are looking for. Statement lips are also a great way to draw attention to the center of your face and away from any imperfections.” — Emma Velazquez
“Playing with color on your eyes, cheeks or lips is a great way to change up your everyday look, and the great news is if you don't like it, you can always take it off. Start on the soft side and you can always build up to bolder and brighter shades. Years ago, I was afraid to try this gorgeous pink and purple eyeshadow duo, and the artist said, 'You might end up loving it!’ It’s one of my favorite eyeshadow combos to this day.” — Jillyan Scarpa
“Makeup is supposed to be fun, creative, personal, chaotic, rebellious and anarchic! I always tell my students this Picasso quote: ‘Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist.’ Yes, there are basic rules, but what is the fun of all these colors, textures, statements, if we play it safe?” — Erin Geddes
