5 Tips to Keep Your Makeup From Melting This Summer

Dermatology Clinic

With the rain and clouds that come with winters here in the Pacific Northwest finally making way for the sun to peak through, summer offers an incredible time to get outside and explore what makes Oregon such a spectacular place to live. Of course, summer comes with a few challenges that can make wearing makeup tricky for those wanting to continue looking their best. Melting makeup, super-sticky lipstick, and smeared eyeliner are just a few of the challenges you need to overcome this summer season.

Fortunately, our team of cosmetologists at the Valley View Dermatology have you covered on all of the dos and don’ts when it comes to your summer makeup routine. For the next time you head outside when the temperatures near triple digits, keep the following tips in mind.

It all Begins with a Moisturizer

Just because the cold, dry air of winter has given way to the hot, humid air of summer doesn’t mean you can start ignoring your skin. The attention you provide your skin plays just as big a role in keeping you looking your best as the makeup you use.

Start your mornings off by using an oil-free moisturizer, and opt to use an oil-free foundation formula to match. If you need a few suggestions on the right types of moisturizers to use, feel free to ask any member of our beauty team during your next visit. However, if you need a quick recommendation, consider trying one of the moisturizers listed below:

  • Problem skin: Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisturizer for Combination Skin
  • All-day protection: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
  • Anti-aging: L’Oreal Paris Skin Expert Revitalift Bright Reveal

Don’t Skimp on the Sunscreen

In addition to keeping your skin hydrated, you also need to make sure you protect it from the sun; meaning you need to wear sunscreen every day, even under your makeup.

Few things can make skin look more weathered then excessive unprotected sun exposure. To keep your skin looking its best, you need to reapply sunscreen once every two hours. However, that kind of attention can be difficult during the busy workday or when out and about. If you find it difficult to properly apply sunscreen, especially when you don’t want to use your hands, try this lifehack from Good Housekeeping’s Beauty Lab that involves the use of a repurposed empty makeup container:

  • Clean out an old liquid foundation compact and accompanying cushion using dish soap, and let dry.
  • Fill the compact with your preferred sunscreen and place the cushion inside to soak up the sunscreen.
  • To re-apply, simply dip the sponge applicator into the cushion and dab the sunscreen on your face.

Get Ready for Primer Season

Taking a few seconds to apply a powerhouse primer, which goes on after the moisturizer but before your makeup, can make a big difference. A quality primer won’t feel heavy on your face, and it will work wonders at helping your makeup stay in the right place. If you need a recommendation, consider trying No7 Airbrush Away Primer, which includes a hyaluronic acid that will help to soften wrinkles and blur imperfections – all while keeping your makeup intact and looking great.

Use a Bronzer to Radiate Your Face

A bronzer can really help your eyes look brighter and your teeth whiter when properly applied. To keep the results looking natural and fresh, try applying a bronzer just to the high points of your face, where the sun naturally strikes, i.e. the chin, nose, cheekbones, and forehead. Don’t go overboard. Applying a bronzer to every part of your face is what creates that “fake bake” look most of us would rather avoid.

Powder bronzers are the easiest to apply. Try looking for a brand that has varying shades, which will blend together for a more natural look when applied. You can also dab a little bronzer on your neck and earlobes to make the look blend a little more cohesively, especially if sporting a ponytail or a shorter hairdo.

Less is Often More

If you want to prevent makeup from caking and creasing, sometimes wearing less can make more of a difference. If you can make it work, try using a tinted moisturizer and a concealer where you need it the most. Makeup will naturally try to move around when it’s hot out, so the best way to avoid that from happening is often to wear less makeup overall.

The Team at the Dermatology Clinic Can Help

If you need any other tips on how to keep your makeup looking its best during the summer, make sure to ask any member of our team at Valley View Dermatology during your next visit.