Humidity has always been the biggest enemy of long-lasting makeup. Tackling the hot and humid weather while maintaining an untouched makeup look is a big challenge. Luckily, we have compiled some important tips and tricks that ensure your makeup stays on longer during hot days.

Skin prep

First up in the checklist is ensuring your skincare is done well before using any makeup products. Think of it as painting or drawing on a canvas; if you do not have a clean and smooth base to work on, you are already set back on your final artwork.

Skincare should leave your face cleansed and hydrated, but not irritated. Hydration is vital because dry skin can “self-produce” oil later, making it difficult for makeup to set. Massaging some ice cubes or frozen cucumbers on the face is also a great way to soothe the skin before makeup application.

Layering

Avoiding heavy makeup is another deciding factor in a good makeup look on humid days. Layering multiple makeup products on the skin, especially in the T-zone (forehead and nose), contributes to more sweating.

Oil-based formulas and heavyweight products should be switched with lightweight formulas that can blend easily. As sweating naturally increases due to the heat, the goal is to keep things light and simple, yet elegant.

Waterproof

One of the biggest issues with maintaining makeup all day during summer is sweat washing it away. That’s where waterproof products come in. Their formula not only prevents makeup removal by water but also prevents makeup from being affected by sweat.

While the range of products available in this category is as large as regular products, there are still plenty of options now, as more makeup brands are exploring this formula.

Finishing touch

A good makeup look always ends with using a setting spray or powder. According to professionals, this step is non-negotiable during hot days. Setting sprays or dusting powders act as an impenetrable barrier, holding the makeup in place, so that it lasts for long hours.

Blotting magic

It is habitual for people to wipe their face with something when sweating, but for anyone with makeup on, that can be a problem. Instead of regular tissue or cloth, using blotting paper is highly recommended. It’s made of a material specialised in absorption without rubbing off makeup and is widely available in markets. Other similar alternatives, like kitchen-towel rolls, which are thicker than tissue, are also effective.

Living in a sub-tropical country like ours entails regularly hot days, but on humid days, our skin suffers from more congestion and heat irritation than usual. Some simple beauty tricks and certain changes in makeup methods can go a long way on such days, to help maintain a flawless look.

By Raidah Hasan

Photo: LS Archive/Sazzad Ibne Sayed