Heat-proof beauty: how to keep makeup in place in summer

When the temperatures rise, even the best makeup looks can start to slide. Between the heat, humidity and sunscreen, staying fresh-faced can feel like a losing battle. But with the right prep, products and a few clever tricks, your makeup can last through even the hottest days. Professional makeup artist and Clicks Beauty Squad member, Wasim Van Vught, shares his expert guide to melt-proof makeup that beats the heat.

Prep, prep, prep

When it’s hot, less is more. “In warm weather, your skincare should feel light and breathable,” says Wasim. “Start by cleansing gently, then use an oil-free hydrating moisturiser with ingredients like hyaluronic acid to keep your skin plump without clogging pores. “Finish with a mattifying SPF to protect your skin and control shine. Heavy creams and rich formulas can make makeup slip faster, so opt for gel-based or fluid textures that absorb quickly and keep skin comfortable all day.

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Prime time

A good primer is your first line of defence against makeup meltdown. “For oily skin, go for a silicone-free, mattifying primer,” says Wasim. “If you have sensitive skin, try a fragrance-free, hydrating option.”

A primer not only helps smooth texture and blur the appearance of pores but also creates a light barrier between your skin and makeup, helping your foundation grip better and last longer. Focus application on oil-prone areas like the forehead, nose and chin to prevent shine, and allow it to set for a minute before applying foundation. This gives the formula time to bind to your skin and keeps your makeup looking fresh, even in the heat.

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Sorbet Hydrating Duo Primer Spray

Lighten up

The best summer foundations are lightweight, long-wear and sweat-resistant. 

“To keep things fresh, apply foundation with a damp makeup sponge,” he advises. “It helps blend seamlessly while preventing that heavy or cakey feel.” If you prefer a more natural finish, swap foundation for a tinted moisturiser or BB cream with SPF, perfect for effortless, breathable coverage that still lets your skin shine through.

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Lock in your look

After applying your base, dust on a translucent setting powder, focusing on areas that tend to shine. “For even longer wear, press powder lightly with a puff rather than brushing it on,” says Wasim. Finish with a setting spray to seal everything in and give your skin a smooth, natural finish. It helps your makeup stay put, even when the humidity rises.

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Touch up

Even the most heat-proof routine can use a midday refresh. Wasim’s tip: always blot first, then powder. “Using blotting papers or a mattifying powder helps to absorb excess oil before adding product,” he says. To revive your glow, mist on a hydrating setting spray and pat gently with a sponge. Keep a compact powder in your bag for easy on-the-go touch-ups.

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Less is more

When it’s hot outside, heavy layers are your enemy. “Skip thick creams, heavy foundations and too much powder, they’ll just melt in the heat,” warns Wasim. “Always use primer and SPF, and keep your layers light.” Instead of piling on more product when you shine, blot and refresh. The goal is skin that looks polished, not powdery.

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