Summer is in full swing, and there’s bound to be some sweltering, humid days in the forecast. While the easiest way to avoid makeup melting off your face during these hot summer months is by going fresh-faced and fancy-free, you might have an event coming up where you want to brighten up your look a bit.  We’re here to help with our top makeup tips for those hot-as-heck days. 

1. Prime Your Face

At the top of our summertime, makeup tips list is a good quality primer. Primers are made for humid weather and can help keep the makeup on your face, keeping it looking fresh all day. As much of a miracle as primer is, you’ll want to use it sparingly as using too much can make your skin look flat and dull. Apply it sparingly along the T-Zone, cheeks, and sides of your nose. 

2. Choose Serums & Gels Instead of Thick Cream

Serums, liquid lotions, and gels will hold up better against humidity. That goes for foundation too, the thinner the better in summer. Your concealer will look best if applied in light layers. Thick creams and foundations are not ideal for humid weather, and that goes for cream blush as well. If you absolutely can’t live without your cream blush, choose one with a dry finish so it doesn’t turn greasy in the humidity. 

3. Look For Concealer That Sticks

If you’re in the middle of a breakout or want to conceal a blemish, opt for a concealer with a more sticky than creamy consistency. A sticky concealer will stay put when applied and will look fresh for a long time. Don’t forget to take it with you for touch-ups too! 

4. Blot Instead of Powdering

Too much powder can turn pasty and end up looking caked on in extreme heat. Use powder sparingly, you can contain the shine with a minimal application. If you layer on the powder in humid weather it will get cakeier with each application. Try blotter paper instead, this will help contain oil and sweat without buildup. Blotting papers are great for absorbing shine without adding a layer of product to your face.

5. Enhance Your Sun Kissed Skin With Some Bronzer

Even though you should never (NEVER) go out in the sun without applying sunscreen, you’ll still get a summertime glow even with your sun protectant on. A light dusting of bronzer can really enhance that gorgeous sun-kissed skin. Bronzer is the perfect lightweight way to make your eyes look brighter, your teeth look whiter. Bronzer gives you a warm, healthy glow that won’t get cakey. To keep it looking natural and fresh, apply it sparingly to your forehead, cheekbones, chin, and nose. You can also brush your bronzer on your neck and earlobes so there’s not an abrupt stop where the color application ends.  

6. Wear less makeup

The best way to prevent makeup from caking on in the heat is to just wear less. During the hot sunny days of summer, you won’t need as much anyway, and if you apply too much foundation it will be noticeable in the bright sun. If you feel comfortable, try using tinted moisturizer (and concealer where needed) instead of a full face of foundation. Your skin will be able to breathe and you’ll look fresh for longer. 

7. Play with fun, vibrant colors

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to play with brighter colors on your eyes and lips. Generally, your wardrobe and accessories will be brighter in summer, so it’s the perfect time to experiment with the vivid colors on your makeup palette. Bright colors are not only on point for the season, but they’ll also play up the youthful glow you’re rocking. If you tend to use neutrals, try a bolder color on one part of your face. A bolder blush on the round of your cheeks can really take your bare face to the next level.