A rare red warning for extreme heat has been issued across London as temperatures across the capital are set to reach up to 39℃ over the next few days.
Many people will be looking for ways to keep their makeup looking fresh, especially when commuting on the tube, as temperatures begin to skyrocket.
The combination of extreme heat and humidity can often be a disaster for makeup, causing products to separate and smudge throughout the day.
Considering this, Annabelle Taurua, a beauty expert at Fresha, has recommended several essential tips to help stop makeup melting away in the heatwave.
Focus more on skincare prep than application
During extreme temperatures, wearing heavy layers of makeup can often make your skin more susceptible to breakouts and irritation. In order to combat this, it’s essential that you are prepping your skin in the correct way.
Always start by cleansing your skin, ideally with cleansing water. During hot weather, it’s best to simplify your skincare routine and avoid applying any exfoliating acids, heavy moisturisers, or retinol.
Stick to the basics with a lightweight hydrating serum and plenty of SPF.
Finish the routine with a light moisturiser, ideally one that contains SPF, to help keep your skin feeling fresh throughout the day.
Ditch heavy makeup products and opt for skin tints
During hot weather, foundation products are more likely to separate and melt away during the day. This is why it’s recommended to switch to skin tints during a heatwave.
Not only do skin tints feel lighter on the skin, but they are also less likely to separate during hot weather, even when mixed with sweat and oil.
As skin tints are lighter, they avoid the risk of looking cakey and patchy on the skin and are easier to touch up throughout the day.
Many skin tints also sit more comfortably over suncream than heavy foundation, helping to avoid that heavy, congested feeling when skincare, SPF, and makeup are layered together.
Use a mattifying primer
It’s also recommended to apply a quality mattifying primer before any other products. This creates a barrier between skin oils and makeup, helping makeup stay in place longer. Primers work best when allowed to set for one minute before adding other cosmetics.
Swap to long-wear foundations
If you prefer more coverage than skin tints, then switch to a long-wear foundation instead of your regular one.
Modern long-wear foundations contain polymers that bond to skin and resist heat breakdown. These formulations typically last 8-12 hours, even in warm conditions when properly set with powder.
During hot weather, it’s also recommended to switch to foundations containing SPF, as this offers an additional layer of sun protection.
Keep your layers minimal
Heat causes makeup layers to mix and slide. Using fewer, thinner layers allows each product to be set properly.
Choose waterproof products
Waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and other cosmetics resist sweat and humidity better than regular formulations.
Apply setting spray correctly
Most people apply setting spray incorrectly, reducing its effectiveness.
For the best results, hold the bottle at least 20 centimetres from your face and apply in an X and T motion for complete coverage.
Keep blotting papers handy
Blotting papers are great to have on hand to dab against oily areas to absorb excess moisture without disturbing makeup.
This is a perfect technique to use during hot weather when people need their makeup to last for a long period of time.
Store products in a cold environment
It’s no mystery that some makeup products are more prone to melting in the heat than others. Lipsticks, cream products, and foundations benefit from cooler storage temperatures, as this helps to preserve their consistency.
This could include keeping them in the fridge or a cooler location as opposed to your usual makeup bag or bathroom cabinet.
Annabelle Taurua, a beauty expert at Fresha, has commented:
“During a heatwave, the biggest mistake people make is trying to fix melting makeup by adding more product on top. Reapplying powder or foundation throughout the day might feel like a quick solution, but it can quickly cause makeup to look patchy and cakey.
“During high temperatures, how you prep your skin before applying any makeup is essential for extending the longevity of certain beauty products.
“Ensure that you’re using light, moisturising products during your skincare routine and avoid any harsh exfoliating acids.
“To avoid any breakouts or irritation during the warmer weather, it’s recommended to keep your skincare routine light and breathable and avoid using certain products that will trap sweat.
“Remember that the key to heat-proof makeup is not about wearing more; it’s about mindful application.
“Thin layers, targeted coverage, and products that are actually designed to withstand sweat and humidity will always perform better than a full face of heavy makeup in hot temperatures.
“Keep in mind that blotting is also far more effective than repeatedly topping up with powder. The goal should be to remove excess oil without disturbing the makeup underneath, rather than building up layers that are likely to break down after a few hours.”