The current weather can be an inhospitable place on the grooming front. It is nigh-on impossible to look polished with a crown of frizz and makeup that melts off the minute you leave home. The moisture in the air is on the rise, so your beauty regimen needs to up the stakes to tackle it head on. Let's look at how your skincare and makeup can help you navigate the humidity these coming months.
Prime everything
This is the glue for your makeup. You can pick up mattifying formulas that will provide a stable foundation for your base and “work as a barrier to keep makeup looking fresh”, says Vichy makeup artist Ruby Hammer. And this doesn't just apply to your complexion—you'll need an eye primer and lip primer, too, because humid weather will dislodge everything within moments. We love L'Oréal Paris Infallible Mattifying Primer, Prep + Prime Lip by M.A.C and Nars' Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base.
Ditch the creams
Heavy creams will only make your skin slippery and leave it unable to hold any makeup in place. Instead, embrace serums and essences. As humidity levels are considerably higher, and matte skin is the ultimate goal, lighter textures in Japan and Korea are a must when it comes to skincare. Our favourite formulas are SK-II Facial Treatment Essence and Shiseido Eudermine Revitalizing Essence.
Meet your new best friend: Stick concealer
Step away from any creamy or liquid concealers, because these will have no staying power once temperatures rise—they will turn runny in the heat and disappear fast. Instead, a thicker, balm-like concealer will give you the staying power you need to stay sleek in summer. Opt for a solid stick or compact and dab it on with the end of your finger. Try Vichy Dermablend SOS Coverstick or Benefit Boi-ing Brightening Concealer.
Blot away
Do not, we repeat, DO NOT apply loose powder to soak up excess moisture. This will end up a cakey mess clogging pores and ultimately leaving a mask-like finish. It may even lead to breakouts. “During hot and humid weather, carry blotting papers to dab on the T-zone, especially when you're on the go,” advises Hammer. Tatcha's Aburatorigami are pretty little envelopes with fine papers that blot oil away quickly.
Invest in the right kind of powder
For those wanting to boost coverage from time to time during hot weather, the best way to do this is using a blotting powder. The main trick is to remember that you need little to none. Look for oil-free formulas that will help to cover but not clog—such as Revlon Colorstay Pressed Powder, which lasts up to 16 hours without irritating skin or blocking pores.
Mist up
Keep a hydrating mist on your desk, in your handbag, anywhere that is within easy reach. The water will brighten the complexion and help your makeup set better, as well as hydrate any patchy-looking areas. Try the beauty editor's favourite, Caudalie Beauty Elixir.
Nourish your hair
Hair stylist and founder of Percy & Reed Adam Reed says, “My philosophy is that prevention is better than remedy. Treatments and oils are the best way to keep hair in tip-top condition, nourished and with the cuticles sealed.” We love Percy & Reed Perfectly Perfecting Wonder Treatment Oil+ for its intense yet light nourishment, and L'Oréal Professionnel Source Essentielle Nourishing Balm.
Switch up your conditioner for a mask
Instead of your usual conditioner, opt for a treatment mask post shampoo. This will add an extra injection of moisture into your hair and seal the ends better. “An overnight mask is always a good idea,” says Reed. “These are like using a great night cream—my ultimate tip for preventing damage.” Try Kiehl's Sunflower Color Preserving Deep Recovery Pak, or This Works Stress Check Hair Elixir.
Embrace the braid
A loose braid or plait worn overnight for those with longer locks will keep hair in place for longer, and when you loosen it in the morning, you'll find lovely textured waves rather than out-of-control curls and frizz.
Also read:
7 ways to stop your concealer from creasing in the heat
7 beauty products that will troubleshoot any problem you have this month
How to waterproof your makeup this monsoon
How to use makeup to cover up every kind of skin problem
Banita Sandhu's skincare and makeup routine is surprisingly low-key
