Keep Your Foundation From Melting Off In 5 Steps

As much as we may love the heat of summer, the sun can bring along some problems. Yes, SPF is a major concern, but figuring out how to make foundation stay can be too. Even though the shining sun can feel good on the skin, it doesn't feel so good when our makeup is sliding off of our faces. Especially if you already have oily skin and/or live in a humid environment, the extra summer sun is not doing any favors for foundation longevity. While it is usually just better for the skin, in these circumstances, to avoid wearing foundation, what do we do when we want to wear a full face anyway? After all, it's wedding season, which means the potential for LOTS of photos.

To avoid a makeup meltdown, it's all about layering. Just like we might wear a thermal, sweater, and coat (and bring along a scarf, just in case) during the winter to combat the cold, a similar process needs to be taken in the summer so makeup can defend against the heat and humidity. So if you want all of your friends to wonder how your perfectly made-up face is immune to the summertime elements, here are the steps to take to keep your foundation from creasing and fading during the hottest months of the year.

1. Prime The Skin

Clean Slate Flawless 12-hr Brightening Primer, $31, Tarte Cosmetics

The first step is a good primer. A primer suited to your skin type will not only help foundation stay on longer, but it can also offer other benefits like controlling oil or keeping the skin properly hydrated. When it comes to summer weather, look for a formula that is waterproof to further combat sweat.

2. Pick The Right Foundation

Kat Von D Lock-It Tattoo Foundation, $35, Sephora

Of course there are other steps to help any foundation last longer, but if you really need a flawless face in the heat of summer, it's important to use the right foundation. Look for a formula that is oil-free, transfer-resistant, and long-wearing. Yes, most foundations that claim 24 hours of wear usually fall short, but even if the claim is too bold, chances are the wear time will exceed foundations without a long-wearing claim.

3. Use A Powder

Rimmel London Stay Matte Pressed Powder, $5, Ulta

Make sure to use a powder to set your foundation for longer wear. When applying powder, make sure to press it into the skin rather than buffing or swiping. The latter actions can actually disrupt the foundation you've already applied, causing it to not last as long as it originally would have. If you tend to become oily or sweaty throughout the day, a matte formula can help fight the shine.

4. Don't Forget A Setting Spray

Skindinavia The Makeup Finishing Spray, $29, Skindinavia

To help lock all of your products in place and prevent creasing and fading, it's important to finish with a setting spray. If you have a powdery or "cake" face, a setting spray can even help take down an undesirable finish while providing a longer wear time.

5. Be Ready For Touchups

Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets, $5, Target

To ensure that your makeup stays fresh and flawless throughout the day, make sure to have products with you to touch-up. Blotting papers are good to absorb any excess sweat or oil (in a pinch, toilet-seat covers work amazingly), powders can help mattify a shiny T-zone, and a travel-sized setting spray can help refresh and reset makeup. Whether you feel more comfortable just carrying one or all three, any of these types of products can help prevent a summer meltdown.

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