In the scorching heat of summer, even the most meticulously applied makeup can falter, leaving us in need of emergency touch-ups. But fear not, for the beauty artists behind fashion campaigns, red carpets, and runway shows have mastered the art of making makeup last. These experts, who have worked with renowned figures like Ashley Graham, Naomi Campbell, and Sabyasachi, have a few tricks up their sleeves to keep your look fresh and flawless, no matter the temperature. Let's dive into the secrets they swear by, and uncover the makeup tricks that will have you surviving extreme heat with style.
The Power of Skin Prep
One of the most common mistakes people make, according to Leiya Phinao Ningshen, is over-preparing the skin. "Over-moisturising before makeup application can cause products to break down and slide throughout the day," she warns. Instead, Ningshen recommends lightweight, fast-absorbing hydration that leaves skin balanced rather than overly emollient. Amanda K shares a similar philosophy, beginning every makeup application with cleansing and lightweight, water-based skincare before reaching for a mattifying gripping primer. For full-glam occasions, Hila has an unexpected trick: using liquid magnesium as a primer to control oil and sweat, ensuring makeup stays fresh for longer.
Lighter is Stronger
The instinct to reach for heavier coverage during summer is understandable, but professional artists tend to do the opposite. Hila suggests using a tinted SPF as the foundation base and colour-correcting only where needed. "This keeps the skin looking fresh and prevents makeup from feeling heavy," she explains. Amanda K agrees, recommending spot correction instead of a full-coverage base whenever possible. Less product means less opportunity for separation, creasing, and patchiness throughout the day. Ningshen relies on the same principle, applying makeup in thin, well-blended layers for a more durable finish.
The Art of Strategic Layering
If there's one technique that appears repeatedly in professional kits, it's strategic layering. Most people treat setting spray as the final step, but Nadine Elias recommends using it throughout the application process. "Layer your setting spray, not just for the final step," she advises. Apply it before foundation after skincare, after applying your base, and for finishing touches. Elias also recommends layering cream blush with powder blush to prevent colour from fading in the heat, while Hila uses a similar technique with blush and bronzer for added longevity. One of Elias's favourite backstage tricks is spraying a concealer brush with setting spray before blending to maximise wear time.
The Power of Strategic Setting
When it comes to powder, the experts unanimously agree that more is not necessarily better. Ningshen focuses on areas prone to excess oil and perspiration, particularly the T-zone. Elias takes an equally targeted approach, blotting powder on the chin, nasolabial folds, and sides of the nose rather than the whole face. She also recommends tubing mascara to avoid smudging, lip stains for lightweight colour that lasts, and dusting powder over lip liner before lipstick to extend wear time.
The Takeaway
The makeup that survives extreme heat is rarely the heaviest makeup in the room. Instead, longevity comes from lightweight preparation, strategic layering, and formulas that work with the skin rather than sitting on top of it. In summer, less really can be more. So, the next time you're facing a scorching summer day, remember these tricks and tips from the pros, and keep your makeup looking fresh and flawless all day long.
