In the middle of a heat wave, we always spot a few impossibly flawless individuals who have nary a bead of sweat on their faces and totally crease-free foundation. What’s their secret? Turns out that the real key to maximizing your melt-proof face lies in using the right products and knowing how to apply them. By tweaking your beauty routine with these pro steps, it’s possible to safeguard your makeup against even the highest humidex.
Step 1. Double cleanse
Start by using an oil-based face cleanser like the Dermalogica Precleanse ($55) to get at the deepest dirt and impurities followed by a water-based cleanser for a squeaky clean base. Primer and makeup will adhere better to skin that’s ultra clean.
Step 2. Prime time
Depending on how oily your skin is, reach for a mattifying primer or a pore correcting primer like Paul & Joe Pore Primer ($28) and apply it strictly to the T-zone. This will prevent facial oil from breaking down makeup and smooth your complexion for an all-day humidity barrier. Don’t forget to prime your eyes, too.
Step 3. Keep it light
With a slightly damp sponge, stipple on a thin layer of longwear foundation containing SPF to sun-proof your skin. We like Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Perfectly Satin 24HR SPF15 Foundation ($15) because it comes in 10 shades and controls shine with time-released ingredients that absorb oil throughout the day. Use the heat to your advantage by going light on the cheeks to let a bit of a glowy dew shine through.
Step 4. Strong finish
Use a large brush to dust a small amount of loose powder like the Vasanti Flash Effect Loose Powder Radiance ($24) over the T-Zone and blend well. This essentially blots away any oil without making the skin look or feel heavy. Throw a couple blotting papers in your purse (or stockpile Starbucks napkins) for major oil slick situations.
