The Difference Between Waterproof & Sweat-Proof

Chances are you'll be spending the summer hiking, hanging out by the pool, swimming in the ocean, or playing a mean game of beach volleyball. You'll likely want to keep your face flawless no matter what you're up to, so here's the age old question: What's the difference between sweat-proof and waterproof makeup? I'm here to tell you exactly what you should know so you can pick the right makeup products for your lifestyle.

In short: There isn't much of a difference between waterproof and sweat-proof, or even water-resistant makeup products. You can see it all on the ingredients list. For example, waterproof or water-resistant mascara contain a larger portion of wax in the ingredients. Primary ingredients are listed first on products, so if you're looking for something extra waterproof, look for wax on the top of the list, like beeswax, Candelilla wax, and carnauba wax. Waxy formulas help your mascara or liner stay on through thick and thin, no matter how hot it gets.

When it comes to foundation or concealer, ingredients like fat, wax, and oils create a waterproof or sweat-proof solution. The exact combination of these ingredients, and the exact amount, is a bit of a mystery. After all, brands don't want to reveal their secret sauce and give up a formulation for all their competitors to copy.

When it comes to choosing these products, you want to gravitate away from anything labeled dewy, luminous, satin, or hydrating. These liquid-y foundations and concealers are for dry skin, and are made to increase moisture, not wick it away. So as popular as the dewy glow look is right now, if you sweat a lot and are looking to fight excessive shine, it's your best bet to reach for waterproof or sweat-proof formulas that will leave your skin looking as matte as possible.

Here are some of my favorite sweat-proof and waterproof makeup products to reach for this summer:

1. Estee Lauder "Double Wear" Stay-in-Place Liquid Makeup

Estee Lauder "Double Wear" Stay-in-Place Liquid Makeup, $40, Nordstrom

This foundation promises to stay put, no matter how sweaty you get.

2. ABLE Liquid Liner Refill Pen

ABLE Liquid Liner Refill Pen, $30, Able Cosmetics

ABLE's liquid liner describes itself as being "life-proof" meaning it'll last you through the work day and that post-office SoulCycle sesh.

3. Benefit BADgal Waterproof Mascara

BADgal Waterproof Mascara, $19, Benefit Cosmetics

Waterproof mascara is pretty self-explanatory, and it doesn't get better than this formula from Benefit.

4. Amazonian Clay Waterproof 12-Hour Concealer

Amazonian Clay Waterproof 12-Hour Concealer, $25, Sephora

This Tarte favorite is famous for its saying power, which is crucial for those hot and super sweaty days.

When all else fails, remember to look for products labeled 12-hour, 24-hour, matte, long wear, all day, and of course, sweat-proof and waterproof — these will generally be your best bet for summer-proof beauty.

Image: Andrew Zaeh/Bustle; Courtesy of Brands