There is nothing more uncomfortable than the feeling of foundation sweating off of your face. Not only does the combination of sweat and makeup breed bacteria, but it makes you feel like you completely wasted your time by even bothering with a beauty routine in the first place. Luckily, I've found seven fool-proof ways to keep your foundation from sweating off, because the solution of "just don't wear makeup until October" simply doesn't work.
The most important thing you need to do is prime your skin the right way, and then choose products that will hold up in intense heat. This is especially crucial in the summer, when morning commutes are hot, crowded and sweaty (especially if you have the pleasure of enjoying, like I do, New York City's public transportation sub-9am). It seems almost impossible to keep your makeup from melting.
Worried about the rest of your look, too? There are little things you can do to keep your full face in tact. Opt for waterproof mascara and eyeliner that won't drip when you start to sweat, and use a lip gloss or balm instead of lipstick, which is more likely to melt. Try a "sticky" concealer (like one that comes in a pot) instead of a slick or creamy one, because it will cling to your face longer and give you more lasting coverage.
Now that you know the basics, study up on these seven ways to keep your foundation from melting off of your face.
1. Cool Off Before You Apply
Poise Roll-On Cooling Gel, $8, Amazon
Even though you may be in a hurry to get ready immediately after you get out of the shower, you'll have better results if you allow your body to cool down before applying makeup. When you put foundation on warm skin, the skin tends to absorb the ingredients more readily which can cause breakouts later. If you're in a major rush, splash cold water on your face (and then dry it completely) before putting on makeup. You can also try applying cooling gel, like this one from Poise, to pulse points on your wrists, cheeks, and neck.
2. Even Out Your Skin With Toner
Lancôme Tonique Douceur Alcohol-Free Toner, $26, Lancome
Putting makeup on oily, unbalanced skin is a surefire way to get it to melt off. After you cleanse your face and before applying moisturizer, use a toner to get rid of any excess oil, which will give you a clean, even palette to apply foundation to.
3. Always Use Primer
Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer with SPF 20, $42, Sephora
Primer is the most important component to keeping foundation from sweating off. A primer's main purpose is to keep your makeup in place, and also helps to reduce shine. This one, from Smashbox, has a silicon base that will hold onto your makeup all day long. It has SPF 20, which is incredibly important for protection from the harsh summer sunshine.
4. Try A Lighter Foundation
Studio Secrets Magic Skin Beautifier B.B. Cream, $11, Walgreens
The heavier the foundation, the more likely it is to melt and slip off. In the warmer months, choose a lighter-coverage option like BB cream or tinted moisturizer.
5. Skip The Powder
E.L.F. Mattifying Blotting Papers, $5, E.L.F.
When you start to sweat, powder will appear chalky and caked on, which will actually make any imperfections on your face (namely, lines) stand out more. Not to mention you'll look like a badly-bronzed reality TV star circa 2004. Opt for cream foundation instead of powder, and use blotting papers (or, in a pinch, toilet paper) to remove extra oil from your face.
6. Try A Facial Mist
Benefit Cosmetics B. Right Ultra-Radiance Facial Hydrating Mist, $20, ACW Cosmetics
Spraying water on your face may seem counter intuitive if you want to keep your makeup in tact, but we swear, it works. These mists, otherwise known as "setting sprays," are basically like ultra-hold spray-glue for your face (but not as sticky or toxic). You can re-apply these sprays all day long which will help cool you off, remove sweat and reset your makeup — all while keeping you hydrated.
7. Remember: Less Is More
Embrace your natural summer glow and if you can, only wear the essentials. Cover any blemishes or dark spots with concealer, and use waterproof mascara and a lip balm with SPF.
Images: Andrew Zaeh/Bustle; Courtesy of Brands
