Heat-proof beauty: 4 Summer makeup tips to help keep your makeup intact

While we love a good glow, we could all do without the midday makeup meltdown during summer. But looking flawless isn’t about fighting the sun — it’s also about working smarter with your products, textures and techniques. This summer, we’re making sure our makeup will live through the long, sunny days and warm nights.

The perfect summer makeup is all about balance. You want to glow — not sweat off your hard work. The key to this is choosing products that work with your skin rather than against it. Lightweight formulas, water-resistant textures and strategic layering can make all the difference between a midday meltdown and a flawless, long-lasting finish. Think of it as building a foundation that can handle heat, humidity and movement, so your makeup stays put no matter where you go or how active you get. The good news? We know just the way to choose the right products, plus a few insider tricks that pros swear by.

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1. A breathable base

The first step to surviving the heat starts with your base. Think breathable, not bare. Swap heavy foundations for tinted moisturisers or lightweight long-wear formulas that blend seamlessly into skin. The trick is in the texture: creamy, hydrating formulas that won’t crack under pressure. A thin layer applied with a damp beauty sponge or brush will melt into your skin (in a good way) and stay there.

And don’t skip your primer. It’s not just a TikTok trend — it’s your secret weapon to a look that lasts. Silicone-based primers help grip your makeup to your skin while smoothing out texture and keeping shine under control, especially across your T-zone. If you prefer a dewy finish, a water-based primer will keep you glowing without crossing into greasy territory.

Swap heavy foundations for formulas that blend seamlessly into skin, Image: Instagram/@melanieelisa

2. Set it

Once your base is on, set it strategically. The goal isn’t a full matte mask but a soft, velvety finish that can handle humidity. Use a translucent setting powder only where you need it — usually the T-zone, under the eyes and around the mouth. Overdoing it can make your makeup look dull or dry. So, think precision and not powder puff.

A setting spray is your best friend when it comes to heat-proofing your look. Mist it over your face once you’ve finished your makeup, then lightly press it in with a sponge for that “second skin” effect. Bonus tip? A quick spritz at midday not only refreshes your makeup but also revives your glow when the heat starts to take its toll.

A setting spray is your best friend when it comes to heat-proofing your look, Image: Instagram/@kyliecosmetics

3. Eyes tell all

When temperatures soar, your eye makeup should work overtime. Cream shadows might feel light but they tend to crease. Instead, opt for powder or long-wear liquid formulas that won’t budge. Choose waterproof eyeliner (a non-negotiable) and tubing mascara — it wraps around each lash and stays put until you intentionally remove it (read: no panda eyes). Keep brows in check with a clear or tinted gel.

Opt for powder or long-wear liquid eyeshadows, Image: Instagram/@keke

4. The perfect pout

There’s nothing worse than reapplying your lipstick every hour. The key? Lip prep. Exfoliate gently, then add a lightweight balm to keep your lips hydrated without making your colour slide. Matte liquid lipsticks and lip stains are summer MVPs as they dry down to a comfortable finish that lasts through poolside sips and sunlit selfies. If you’re a gloss girl, layer a long-wear tint underneath your gloss coat for colour that lingers long after the shine fades.