5 cool ways to summer-proof your makeup so you can look gorgeous despite the heat

Makeup isn’t just about slapping a few products onto your face. It takes care and specific products suited for each skin type to look as flawless as possible.

Given the warmer weather, it’s super important to know when to switch from winter makeup to warm weather makeup. If you have dry and sensitive skin you probably use hydrating makeup continuously, and only switch between different shades depending on your skin. For oily and combination skin it’s a different story. Follow our guide.

Experts recommend you use a water-based moisturiser – and don't forget to apply a high-protection SPF (PHOTO: Gallo Images/Getty Images)

Start here

Flawless makeup starts with a good skincare regimen – if you don’t take good care of your skin, it’s highly unlikely your makeup will look good, unless you have good genes and your skin requires little attention.“Use an oil-free moisturiser in the morning,” celebrity makeup artist Fiona Stiles from Los Angeles told Good Housekeeping magazine. This means you should go for a water-based moisturiser that packs lots of hydration with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. Top your skincare regimen off with a high protection SPF.

Prime like a pro

Follow up with a primer. Primer creates a smooth and silky layer, like a canvas, between your moisturiser and foundation. “They really help hold makeup in place without feeling like a heavy additional layer,” says Ashunta Sheriff-­Kendricks, a celebrity makeup artist in New York.

Some makeup-setting sprays work as primers too, so look out for these multitaskers. Most primers have benefits, so they can get to work while you look good. These benefits include anything from hydrating and exfoliating to anti-ageing and plumping. 

For hot weather, look for something mattifying. A little goes a long way so only apply a little bit. 

After moisturising, apply a primer, which will help to hold your makeup in place. (PHOTO: Gallo Images/Getty Images)

All about the base

Choose a foundation meant to last with a water-based formula. A little goes a long way too in this step. If you need a bit more coverage on blemishes, use concealer. For a uniform and lasting look, use a damp beauty blender when applying foundation and concealer. If you’re into contouring then go ahead and chisel your face, and if not move on to the next step.

Powder helps absorb excess oil and gives your look a spotless finish. If you have combination skin apply powder only on areas that tend to oil up. For oily skin, apply powder on your T-zone, temples and chin. Add a bit more powder and leave to set for a few minutes before dusting it off using a powder brush. If you don’t have powder suitable for your skin, use translucent powder that adapts to the colour of your skin instead.

Bring on the hues

Once you’ve nailed the base, it’s time to have fun with bright and popping hues that echo summer! Whether it’s with cherry blushes or high-strobe highlighters, ­apply yours strategically to accentuate your features.

Use your fingers or beauty blender for intense application, and a blush brush for a controlled and light application.If you’re going all out with your eyes, the trick is to use waterproof products. Yes, they might be a little tricky to remove, but they withstand heat like magic. In fact, ­makeup removers such as ­micellar ­water work wonders when ­removing waterproof products such as mascara. 

So before you wash your face you might want to give makeup ­remover a try and follow up with your favourite cleanser.

Finally, apply a makeup setting spray – some even come with SPF. (PHOTO:Gallo Images/Getty Images)

Last but not least

Makeup setting spray is everything in summer. It acts like the glue that keeps everything ­together and in place. Some setting sprays even come with added SPF so you don’t have to worry about reapplying sunscreen throughout the day – instead, a few spritzes are all you need.

Here's a selection of products we think will make you look summer-kissed and gorgeous.