Summer has not even properly set in and we are already melting and so is our make-up. Excessive perspiration and humidity are the worst things to happen if you plan to step out during day with your face perfectly prepped with make-up. Well, we can’t help the heat, but we can surely take steps to protect our make-up. The best option is to wear no make-up at all. But if you are one of them who cannot leave the house without a thin layer of BB cream or foundation, you have no option but to adapt. Your winter make-up routine will certainly not work in the summers.

Fortunately, with the make-up moguls and with the booming industry, people have found hacks for long-lasting make-up during summers. Face the rising mercury without melting your face. Follow these simple and effective make-up tips for summer to look fresh throughout the day. P.S. – These will not burn a hole in your pocket.

Make-up Hacks for Summers  

Cool off: Do not apply make-up straight out of the shower. Allow your body to cool down for at least 10 minutes. Wearing make-up to warm skin makes the skin absorb the ingredients more readily, which can cause breakouts later. It is likely to result in a less polished appearance. If you’re in a hurry, splash your face with cold water a couple of time before starting your make-up routine.

Put on some primer: Before applying any make-up, moisturise your face to keep your skin hydrated. Primers are made to help your make-up cling on to your skin a little longer. Apply the primer before your foundation but after your moisturiser. Apply where you feel the skin is more oiler. If you have oily skin, opt for a mattifying primer as it will help your make-up last longer and fresher throughout the day. Use an eyelid primer if you find your eye make-up running.

Go Light: Heavy and full coverage foundations are more likely to melt on hot and sweaty skin. Switch on to light products that are oil-free and won’t be heavy on skin. Heavy make-up will tend to get cakey. Instead opt for a BB/CC cream or a light base foundation. If you want to avoid layers of base on your skin, mix your foundation and sunscreen. This will also protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun and will also avoid an additional layer.

Skip the powder: Toning down the shine with powder can create a chalky look and will only exaggerate fine lines and wrinkles. Instead use blotting papers that will absorb excess oil without messing up your make-up.

(DIY blotting papers – Blotting sheets are usually expensive. Make your own blotting sheets at home. These sheets usually come with dress materials or between sarees. You can cut it into pieces and store it in a zip pouch and carry it along with you. Whenever you feel that your skin is sweaty and oily, place a sheet gently on the parts where you feel oil. The sheet will absorb excess oil and your make-up will be intact.)

Go waterproof: Who likes drippy eye make-up? Well, nobody. It makes a big difference when you opt for water-proof make-up especially for your eyes. Mascara that’s water-proof is better able to withstand summer sweating. Liquid eyeliner also lasts longer than pencils when your lids are moist.

Carry a facial mist: It is a must when you are travelling. Take a facial mist along with you to instantly refresh your make-up and it will last longer without being smudged. You can cool off your skin just by spraying some mist. If you do not wish to spend on a facial mist, we have a DIY option at your disposal. Mix equal portion of rose water and water and store it in a spraying bottle. It is a must-have for the summer season as it will help in setting the make-up and will keep your face hydrated.

Avoid dark colours: Dark colours are a big no if you are going to be out in the sun for a longer period. Stay away from smoky eye-makeup, dark blushes and the like. They are a bit harsh in the bright sun and are also more likely to be noticeable if they drip or smudge. Look for softer colours, particularly for the eyes.

Hydrate: Keeping your body cool from the inside out is the best way to keep your skin dry. Always carry a bottle of water before you step out and sip frequently. Consumption of at least 3 litres of water is recommended.

To prevent excessive oil secretion or have oily skin, rub ice cube on your face before make-up application. This will help cool down your face. Also, too much make-up in summers will make you look unnatural. Follow these tips and beauty hacks and you are summer ready and good to go. Your make-up will look cool, no matter how you may feel from within.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 19, 2018 07:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).