For those (myself included) who always moan about the cold and rainy English weather, well this week the said weather has made a 360 degree U-turn to laugh in our faces. Yesterday was the hottest summer day in a decade (35c in London). Plenty of sweltering sun we always complained we don’t get enough of. Well you know what they say, be careful what you wish for.
Although it was great that a ‘full blown’ summer had suddenly and unexpectedly graced us with its ever so powerful presence, I found myself literally unable to cope with the overpowering heat and humidity. So I thought in today’s post I would talk about how I keep my makeup on and melt-proof during hot summer days.
Of course applying a good SPF is integral and should be the first thing you do before moving on to your makeup. I’m currently using Ultrasun Face High SPF 30 Anti-Aging formula, which is also catered for sensitive skin and is so lightweight and non sticky, always a plus in my book. Before applying makeup I always use a primer to prep my skin and to make foundation goes on nicer and lasting longer. I’ve been using Benefit Porefessional for years because it’s incredible at smoothing out your complexion, erasing any noticeable pores, adding longevity to your foundation, which is what you need most during the hot weather, and at a price that is still affordable.
When it comes to foundation, I personally think during the summer the lighter the better. I can’t imaging caking on heavy foundation to brave the glaring sun and have it melting off my face throughout the day. So keeping it barely there and light is key and at the moment I’m alternating between an all time favourite BareMinerals Complexion Rescue and Perricone MD No Foundation Foundation. Both have extra SPF 30, which is great to top up on your existing SPF, and both are super light weight and give you an amazing glow and dewy complexion. The BareMinerals one feels more comfortable and hydrating on the skin, whereas the texture of No Foundation Foundation takes a bit of getting used to but I still love it for injecting that boost of radiance. However if you want to opt for a proper foundation, the one I’m currently enjoying for the summer is Burberry Fresh Glow Luminious Foundation. It feels very lightweight, gives light to medium coverage, and as the name suggests, gives a beautiful luminious glow to your complexion.
Because I’ve been keeping my base light but I still want my makeup to look flawless, the next integral step for me is to add a setting power ‘that has some coverage’. Don’t worry, your makeup will not look cakey, as long as you don’t apply too much and always use a light hand. What this does is to set everything down, whilst adding extra coverage to make your complexion looking more even and flawless. My current favourites for this purpose are MAC Studio Fix and BareMinerals Original Powder Foundation, and I apply either with Bobbi Brown Sheer Powder brush or Sephora Pro Airbrush no. 55, both of which are perfect for a light dusting job.
As for eye makeup, the only set rule I have to keep everything looking fresh and long lasting amidst the heat and humidity is to always opt for waterproof mascara. The one I currently enjoy using at the moment is Maybeline Lash Sensational WP Mascara. It’s great for separating and fanning out your lashes, making them look full and fluttery.
Finally the last, and most important step is to seal everything in with a few spritzes of Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray. This is a miracle in a bottle; it keeps your makeup last ‘all day’ if not longer and nothing will budge it, not even the sweltering heat. It also freshens up your makeup so if you feel like everything is looking a bit dull or out of control during the day, a few spritzes will bring all back to live again.
What are your tips for a long lasting summer makeup?
