Best Summer Makeup Tips For Glowy Glam That Survives the Heat

11 Summer Makeup Tips:

1. Start With Smooth Skin

Cakey makeup is never on trend—especially in the summer. If you want your makeup to glide right on your skin and look natural, exfoliation is key. You can also take it a step further and add dermaplaning to your routine. By using a straight razor that almost looks like a (not-so-sharp) scalpel, you can exfoliate the top layer of your skin and eliminate peach fuzz. Reaching for a multipurpose exfoliant like the MURAD AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser will also make applying makeup a breeze.

“Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, which as a result creates a more even canvas for applying makeup. It also helps skin look less dull, so you get a more glowy look without even putting on makeup yet,” says Tejada.“I always tell my clients to take care of their skin so that when it’s time for makeup, we already have a strong starting point.” 

If you’re looking for a standalone exfoliant, we take the PAULA'S CHOICE SKINCARE 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant with us everywhere.

Since exfoliating removes the top layer of dead skin cells, it also makes the new skin underneath more susceptible to the sun, so be sure to use SPF every single day to protect your skin from sun damage.

Our SPF of choice? We’re suckers for the classic SUPERGOOP! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40, which is weightless and fragrance-free.

2. Opt for Waterproof Products

This may sound like a no-brainer, but seek out products known to withstand anything wet. That could refer to sweat, water—whatever the case. When the temperature rises, makeup often melts off the face. “Waterproof formulas are the easiest way to ensure your makeup stays intact,” says Tejada, who recommends reaching for waterproof and sweatproof makeup even when you aren’t on vacation. The first item we usually grab? The cult classic TOO FACED COSMETICS Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara. 

“Even if you’re not planning on going to the beach or pool, it ensures your makeup will stay on that much more through sweat,” Tejeda says

3. Prep With Primer

“Primer will absorb any oils on the skin and ensure the longevity of your makeup application,” Boyd says, adding that the BLACK RADIANCE Matte and Poreless Face Primer “is a perfect option for this summer season and is personally one of my favorites.”

We’re personally fans of the E.L.F. COSMETICS Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide—which is not only a viral sensation on TikTok, but also happens to be an excellent budget buy.

4. Multitask With Your Makeup

Less is more, which is why using a tinted moisturizer with SPF is a great way to simplify your summer routine without sacrificing two things you need: sunscreen protection and skin coverage. A great tinted moisturizer will give you the same flawless finish that you get from a BB cream or CC cream, yet it also serves up sun protection so you won’t have to worry when you head outdoors. You can also get more of a full-coverage look, just like your favorite liquid foundation, with the right product. 

We’re big fans of how the IT COSMETICS Bye Bye Foundation Full Coverage Moisturizer with SPF 50+ reduces redness and dark spots, delivers lasting coverage, and also keeps your skin protected from the sun. If you prefer a more minimal approach to makeup, try the DERMALOGICA Oil Clearing Matte Moisturizer SPF 15. This hydrating moisturizer might not blur out imperfections, but it does control oil and shine thanks to the mattifying finish.

Boyd, too, is in support of these types of formulas, saying “lightweight and longwear” is the way to go this season. “In the summer, less is definitely more. A skin tint moisturizer, for example, will provide the coverage you need while giving a skin-like finish.”

5. Blend Like a Pro

Invest in the ORIGINAL BEAUTYBLENDER Makeup Sponge or a buffing brush if you want to ensure your makeup looks flawless all day. It will also give your tinted moisturizer serious staying power, especially in the hot weather. A buffing brush like IT COSMETICS Heavenly Luxe Flat Top Buffing Foundation Brush #6 will ensure foundation won’t slide off your face by the middle of the day. It's also an easy way to apply it smoothly and evenly, and to build up coverage with zero chance of splotchyness.

6. Apply a Glowy Base

The key to looking like a total summer goddess? A dewy glow. Keyword, glow not grease.

You’ll want to apply something like the GLOW RECIPE Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops or FENTY BEAUTY Eaze Drop'Lit All-Over Glow Enhancer right before going in with your lightweight foundation or skin tint. We often mix our glow drops directly in with that next makeup layer for an even application.

7. Get Your (Fake) Tan On 

Bronzer is our BFF, especially come summer. If you’re looking for a cult-classic formula that delivers a sun-kissed finish, look no further than the BENEFIT COSMETICS Hoola Matte Bronzer. Not only is the type of bronzer you reach for important, but so is the brush and application technique. 

“The key is having the right brush. Bronzer should be applied like a 3 to each side of the face. Start at the top of your forehead then around your eyes, come back in at the cheekbone, and then back out until you come back towards your chin,” says Tejada.

8. Go For the Right Blush

Faking a sun-kissed look isn’t simply about bronzer, so you’ll also want to reach for blush to achieve that effortless, just-came-back-the-beach beauty look. When it’s hot out the capillaries beneath your skin widen, allowing the blood near the surface of your skin to give you a warm, rosy flush. To look like you’ve been lounging under the sun (without feeling the heat), take a fluffy blush brush and swirl PHASE ZERO MAKE UP Blusher in Making Moves onto the apples of your cheeks, up toward your ears.

9. Cream Is Your Dream

Regardless of the specific shades you choose, keep thinking in terms of dewy and lit-from-within. So creamy products versus matte are going to be your best bet. 

“I personally love a cream bronzer and blush,” Boyd says. “These products melt nicely into the skin and give a natural, dewy finish to the skin that’s perfect for the summertime.”

When it comes to creamy products, you won’t ever go wrong with the TARTE Maracuja Juicy Blush - Big Ego or the RARE BEAUTY Warm Wishes Effortless Bronzer Stick.

Now, that said, to avoid getting into greasy territory, you will want to add a tiny bit of mattifying powder to your T-zone so that the dewy finish looks natural (and to also help keep the makeup in place). 

The ONE/SIZE Ultimate Blurring Setting Powder is basically your one-stop-shop to keeping that makeup perfected. 

10. Be a Gloss Boss

Lip glosses, oils, and balms had a major moment last year, but to our surprise, they only keep growing in popularity. They complement that natural summer glow, thanks to their soft flush of color and moisture-boosting formulas. 

It’s a tough choice with so many options, but lately we’re especially loving the POLITE SOCIETY Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm in Pink Grapefruit, and the BOBBI BROWN COSMETICS Mini Lip Gloss.

11. Set It And Forget It

Before you head out the door, be sure to lock in your look with a setting spray and setting powder. 

“A good setting spray will help keep makeup on and prevent it from fading. Especially in the summer heat, makeup is more inclined to slip off the face, so this is a crucial step,” says Tejada. COVER FX’s High Performance Setting Spray promises 24-hour coverage and comes in an alcohol-free formula that won’t dry out your complexion. If you have oily skin, it's best to dust translucent powder on your face before you apply setting spray to ensure your makeup stays all day. If you want additional coverage, be sure to stow blotting papers in your purse.

As an added bonus, Boyd says the right setting spray can keep your skin looking hydrated, not sweaty, all day long. We opt for the MAKE UP FOR EVER Mist & Fix 24HR Hydrating Setting Spray.