Blog

How to Make Your Makeup Last Longer in Hot Weather

How to Make Your Makeup Last Longer in Hot Weather

Posted by Doi, Isadora on 8th Sep 2025

Summer days are all about sunshine, beach trips, and fun outdoors—but they can also be a real challenge for your makeup. We’ve all been there: you leave the house looking flawless, and within a couple of hours, the heat, sweat, and humidity start melting everything away. Don’t worry, though—keeping your makeup fresh and intact in hot weather is totally possible! With the right tricks, products, and prep, you can enjoy a glowing look that actually lasts all day.

Here are the best tips to make your makeup last longer under the sun:

1. Start With Proper Skin Prep

Long-lasting makeup begins with good skincare.

  • Cleanse: Always start with a gentle, oil-free cleanser to remove dirt and excess oil.

  • Hydrate: Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer or gel cream to keep skin hydrated without adding heaviness.

  • Protect: Never skip sunscreen! Choose a non-greasy formula designed for the face.

Pro tip: Wait a few minutes after applying moisturizer and SPF before starting your makeup to ensure everything is absorbed.

2. Use a Mattifying Primer

A primer acts as a barrier between your skin and foundation, reducing shine and helping makeup stay put.

  • Choose a mattifying or pore-filling primer if you have oily or combination skin.

  • Apply mainly in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), where most people tend to get shiny.

3. Switch to Lightweight Formulas

Heavy foundations are more likely to slide off in the heat. Instead:

  • Opt for a tinted moisturizer, BB cream, or lightweight foundation.

  • Use a concealer only where necessary (under the eyes, blemishes, redness) to keep things light.

Avoid thick layers. A thin application is less likely to melt and looks more natural.

4. Lock It In With Powder

Setting your makeup with powder makes a huge difference in hot weather.

  • Focus on areas prone to oil, like the T-zone.

  • Choose a translucent setting powder for a natural finish.

  • For extra staying power, try the baking technique under the eyes and around the nose.

5. Waterproof Everything

Sweat and humidity call for waterproof formulas.

  • Mascara: Prevent raccoon eyes with a waterproof or smudge-proof formula.

  • Eyeliner: Gel and liquid liners stay put better than pencil.

  • Brows: Use a tinted brow gel or pomade that can resist sweat.

6. Choose Cream Products (But Set Them!)

Cream blushes and bronzers melt into the skin beautifully, giving a natural glow. To make them last:

  • Apply cream blush/bronzer.

  • Layer a powder version of the same shade on top to “lock” it in place.

7. Don’t Forget Setting Spray

A setting spray is like hairspray for your face.

  • Use a long-wear, mattifying setting spray to seal in your look.

  • For extra longevity, apply setting spray between layers (foundation → spray → powder → spray).

8. Blot, Don’t Wipe

Throughout the day, shine is inevitable. Instead of reapplying powder constantly:

  • Use blotting papers to absorb oil without disturbing your makeup.

  • If needed, add a light dusting of powder afterward.

9. Less Is More

In hot weather, minimal makeup tends to perform better. Instead of a full glam look, focus on enhancing your natural features with:

  • Defined brows

  • A touch of waterproof mascara

  • Tinted lip balm or stain

  • Lightweight base products

Final Thoughts

Hot weather doesn’t have to ruin your makeup routine. With the right prep, lightweight formulas, and strategic setting, your look can last all day—even under the sun. Remember, the goal is not perfection, but fresh, radiant skin that feels comfortable and looks effortless.