How To Avoid a Makeup Meltdown This Summer

During the summer, avoid using harsh cleaners with alcohol that can actually dry your skin out, causing it to produce more oil. Instead, Chanel and Bobbi Brown makeup artist Troy Edwards recommends using a more gentle foaming cleanser. “The sun can also cause your skin to feel dry and flaky. Remove dead skin with a granule exfoliator or use an enzyme-based one,” says Edwards. “I personally use one made of fruit acids because they are gentler on my skin.” Finish with a refreshing tonic (for dry skin) or toner (for oily skin) to remove any excess grime.

When it comes to beating the heat, it’s especially important for skin to stay properly hydrated. Edwards says to look for a lightweight moisturizer with SPF to protect your face from the sun’s wrinkle-causing rays.  Cynthia Rivas likes MAC's Oil Control Lotion, which moisturizes while keeping shine away. As an alternative, beauty expert Hilary Kennedy prefers using a tinted B.B. cream, which combines moisturizer, concealer and, depending on the brand, sun protection.

“A pro tip for extending the wear of your makeup and preventing it from melting in the summer heat is to be sure to always use a primer before applying any makeup,” says Sephora's Jennie Carranza. “I love the Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer SPF 15 because it’s a mineral-based, water-resistant formula that protects, neutralizes, de-shines and preps the skin for long wear makeup.” (Sephora)

Foundation can provide excellent coverage for those with problematic skin, but the last thing you want to do during a steamy day is wear more makeup than necessary. Edwards says to ditch it and use a self tanner instead. “Having a tan gives the illusion of your skin appearing more even, hence skipping the foundation altogether,” he explains. “If you feel it is too messy, then just use a powder or shimmer bronzer instead.” If you can’t bear to go without foundation, make it last. “Use a foundation with a mattifying formula and focus on the nose, forehead and chin where shine tends to develop the fastest,” says celebrity makeup artist Le’Aura Luciano. MAC’s Matchmaster SPF 15 Foundation provides a similar effect with buildable coverage.

"Rice papers are great to keep in your purse to blot oil and sweat from your face without having to pile on powder,” says Kennedy about stopping sweat from causing a makeup meltdown. “If you require something a bit heavier, use a translucent powder,” she says. (Palladio)

Keep things simple with a swipe of waterproof mascara and/or eyeliner, and ditch crease-causing eyeshadow. For nighttime, Kennedy recommends investing in waterproof versions of your favorite eyeliner, mascara and smudge-proof shadow, which will last longer. “Makeup Forever has a great selection of waterproof cosmetics in a variety of colors,” says Kennedy. “But if using a regular liner or mascara, line the top lashes only. Lining under the eyes can lead to the dreaded raccoon look."

"If you have a tan, using a pop of color on the cheeks can give you a healthy looking glow,” says Edwards. A great product worth snagging is Josie Maran’s Magic Marker Lip & Cheek Stain. (Sephora)

Save those heavy lipsticks for the fall. During the summertime, it’s all about long-lasting lip stains, which are lighter to apply, but can come in sheer or deep pigments for day or night. Makeup artists like Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain because it goes on smoothly and comes in an array of vibrant seasonal colors. (Reuters)