Photo: Lauren Methia Photography
Whether you’re a blushing bride-to-be, a veteran bridesmaid, or a serial wedding guest, chances are you’ve got a calendar stacked with weddings, bridal showers, or engagement parties this summer. While that’s all fun and exciting, getting ready for those important occasions can prove to be a bit of a challenge, what with the scorching hot temperatures and sticky humidity cramping your style. How does one manage to keep their makeup on through it all? The key to making sure your gorgeous face doesn’t melt off in the middle of a speech, or on the dance floor, is using the right products. Making sure you prep and set your face, from start to finish, will ensure your highlighter, eyeshadows, and blush stay put. Here are 7 ways to keep your makeup on, no matter how hot it gets.
Photo: Courtesy of Stila
1. Use A Cooling Primer
A primer is arguably the most important product you need to prep your skin and also guarantee your makeup stays put all day long. But what about a primer that does all that while cooling your skin off? Win-win for the summer. Consider Stila’s Aqua Glow Perfecting Primer — it’ll smooth out your pores, hydrate your face, and leave you feeling refreshed. (Aqua Glow Perfecting Primer, $28, Stila available at Sephora)
Photo: Courtesy of Lumene
2. Opt For Waterproof, Long-Lasting Formulas
This might seem obvious, but it needs to be said. Waterproof formulas are your best friends during the hot summer months. Look out for the words waterproof, long-lasting, all day, or sport when choosing mascaras, eyeliners, brow color, and even concealer. Just remember to remove it with a strong makeup remover, like Lumene’s Eye Makeup Remover (Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover, $4.49, Lumene available at Ulta)
Photo: Courtesy of Mac Cosmetics
3. Skip Dewy, Luminous Foundations
Dewy skin is all the rage, but it can easily turn into an oily or sweaty mess with the sun beating down on your face. Opt for foundation formulas that are oil-free, matte, and provide full coverage, like MAC’s Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation. (Pro Longwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation, $33, Mac Cosmetics)
Photo: Courtesy of Sigma Beauty
4. Choose Brushes Over Fingers
When product comes in contact with your fingers, it begins to loosen due to the warmth of your touch. Avoid slippery concealer or foundation by using brushes or sponges to apply your makeup. (Essential Kit, $160, Sigma Beauty)
Photo: Courtesy of Amazon
5. Set With Powder
Lock in all of your makeup by dusting a light, translucent powder all over your face. Focus on areas where you tend to get oily most, like your T-zone. (Studio Finishing Powder, Translucent Finish, $9.98, NYX Cosmetics available at Amazon)
Photo: Courtesy of Sephora
6. Use A Setting Spray
Finishing off your look with a setting spray will not only provide you with extra insurance, it will also refresh your face. There are even formulas with SPF built in. Instead of reapplying sunscreen, just throw your spray in your purse and spritz throughout the day! (Defense Refresh Setting Mist SPF 50, $28, Supergoop! available at Sephora)
Photo: Courtesy of Sephora
7. Carry Oil-Blotting Papers
When all else fails, oil-blotting papers will have your back. These magical sheets will absorb shininess without ruining your makeup. In a pinch? Grab a toilet seat cover, tear off a piece, and soak up excess oil. (Not So Slick Oil-Absorbing Blotting Papers, $10, tarte available at Sephora)
See More: Who Should I Book Hair and Makeup Appointments For?