Summer makeup survival guide: How beauty artists endure extreme heat
As temperatures soar and humidity rises, even the most carefully applied makeup can quickly become a mess. But fear not, dear readers, for the experts are here to save the day. Beauty artists who work on fashion campaigns, red carpets, and high-profile events have mastered the art of making makeup last, even in the most unforgiving summer conditions.
In this article, we delve into the secrets of these professionals, uncovering the techniques and products they swear by to keep their looks fresh and flawless. From lightweight skincare to strategic layering, these artists have their own unique tricks to combat the challenges of extreme heat.
The Power of Lightweight Skincare
Leiya Phinao Ningshen, a renowned makeup artist who has worked with renowned designers and celebrities, emphasizes the importance of balanced skincare. She advises against over-moisturizing, which can lead to makeup products breaking down and sliding throughout the day. Instead, she recommends lightweight, fast-absorbing hydration that leaves skin feeling fresh and balanced.
Amanda K, another industry veteran, shares a similar philosophy. She starts every makeup application with a cleansing routine and lightweight, water-based skincare. This approach ensures that the skin is prepared to receive the makeup without feeling overly heavy or greasy.
For those seeking an extra boost, Hila introduces an unexpected primer: liquid magnesium. This unique ingredient helps control oil and sweat, keeping makeup looking fresh and dewy for longer. It's a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of these artists when they think outside the box!
Less is More: The Lighter Base Approach
Counterintuitive as it may seem, professional artists often opt for lighter coverage during the summer months. Hila, for instance, prefers using a tinted SPF as a foundation base, applying color correction only where necessary. This approach keeps the skin looking fresh and prevents the heavy, greasy feel that can occur with full-coverage foundations.
Amanda K agrees, advocating for spot correction instead of a full-coverage base. By using less product, the risk of separation, creasing, and patchiness is significantly reduced, ensuring a more natural and long-lasting finish.
Ningshen also emphasizes the importance of thin, well-blended layers. By applying makeup in this manner, she achieves a more durable and beautiful finish that lasts throughout the day.
Strategic Layering for Longevity
Layering is a technique that makeup artists swear by, and it's not just about setting spray. Nadine Elias, a Dubai-based artist, recommends applying setting spray throughout the makeup application process, not just as the final step. This ensures that the products are locked in place, creating a more seamless and long-lasting finish.
When it comes to blush and bronzer, Hila employs a similar strategy. She layers cream blush with powder blush to prevent color from fading in the heat. This simple yet effective technique ensures that the color stays put, even under challenging conditions.
Elias also shares a clever backstage trick: spraying a concealer brush with setting spray before blending. This maximizes the wear time of the concealer, ensuring that it stays put even in the most humid environments.
Targeted Powder Application
When it comes to powder, less is indeed more. Ningshen and Elias both emphasize the importance of targeted powder application. Instead of dusting powder across the entire face, they focus on areas prone to excess oil and perspiration, such as the T-zone. This targeted approach ensures that the makeup stays in place without feeling caked on.
Additionally, Elias suggests using tubing mascara to avoid smudging and opting for lip stains for lightweight color that lasts. She also recommends dusting powder over lip liner before applying lipstick, which extends the wear time and keeps the lips looking fresh and defined.
Heat-Proof Products to Keep in Your Kit
- Milk Hydro Grip Primer: A lightweight primer that prepares the skin for a flawless base.
- MAC Studio Fix Fluid SPF15 24HR Matte Foundation: A long-wearing foundation with SPF, perfect for everyday use.
- Tarte Shape Tape™ Medium Coverage Radiant Concealer: A concealer that provides medium coverage and a natural finish.
- Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Baking & Setting Powder: A setting powder that helps control shine and set makeup.
- Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara: A mascara that adds volume and length without smudging.
- Benefit Benetint Cheek & Lip Stain: A lightweight stain that provides color without feeling heavy.
- Onesize On 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray: A setting spray that keeps makeup in place all day.
In conclusion, surviving extreme heat with makeup intact is all about embracing a lighter approach. From lightweight skincare to strategic layering and targeted powder application, these beauty artists have mastered the art of making makeup last. By incorporating their techniques and products into your routine, you can conquer the summer heat and keep your look fresh and flawless, no matter the conditions.
