5 tricks to stop your make-up smudging when it’s hot


Beauty
13/07/2020
Does your make-up melt off your face quicker than ice cream off its cone on a hot summer’s day? Then try these tips to melt no more…

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The sun is shining, it’s a gorgeous day and you’re ready to enjoy some al-fresco fun. So you step out with immaculately made-up face… but when you return it’s practically disappeared, right?

It’s true that hot temperatures can play havoc with cosmetics, and they slip and smudge as time goes on. But these tricks should help you look perfectly put together all day long, even when the temperatures soar…

1. Prep your skin

It’s vital to wear an SPF on your face. So smooth a pump of Olay Total Effects Moisturiser SPF15 into your skin, which offers an oil-free, fast-absorbing and non-greasy formula that won’t clog pores.

The moisturiser does some serious heavy lifting by helping to replenish moisture, even skin tone, enhance brightness, smooth lines and wrinkles, minimise pores, restore firmness and, of course, protect your skin against sun damage. So your skin will look better before you’ve even put make-up on!

If you still want to apply some foundation, wait at least five minutes after you’ve applied your moisturiser, then use a primer to give the foundation something to cling to. And dab eye primer onto your lids to prevent your shadow creasing, too.

2. Less is more

Some people find that their skin often looks better in summer, so you may find you need to use less product than usual anyway. See if you can switch your usual base for a CC cream, for example, or simply apply concealer rather than a full layer of foundation.

And it’s best to save those smoky eyes for sultry winter nights; instead opt for sheer pastels, fun brights or natural shades for a gorgeous summery look. For a striking effect, switch your black eyeliner for purple, blue or green, but only apply it on your top lid to avoid panda eyes.

3. Layer it up

To give make-up more staying power, you could apply more than one coat. For example, smudge a creamy eyeshadow onto your eyelid before setting it with a powder in the same shade. And after applying your eyeliner, use a flat brush to press a line of eyeshadow in the same shade over the top to double up on the staying power.

4. Wear waterproof formulas

Even if you’re not going for a dip in the pool, waterproof make-up is still a good idea as it will help fight any smudges. Opt for a waterproof eyebrow pencil or gel with a waterproof mascara to keep things neat.

5. A finishing flourish

Use a powder bronzer to help set your make-up, as well as to give you a readymade healthy glow. Go for matte rather than shimmery though, as the latter will emphasise any shine if you start to sweat. Apply sparingly though, to avoid the cakey look. Use a big soft brush to apply it anywhere the sun would naturally tan: so the top of your forehead, your nose and the tops of your cheekbones.

To add a rosy glow, a cream-based blusher is best, as it will stick to your skin without looking cakey or streaky, like a powder blush could. Apply it to the apples of your cheeks and along your cheekbones, up towards your hair line.

Finally, finish with a spritz of make-up fixing spray and you’re ready to go!

What tricks do you use to keep your make-up in place on a hot summer’s day?
We’d love to hear your secrets in the comments section below.