By the time you read this summer would have arrived. Power outages and the heat leave you sweating within seconds. And gosh, you don’t even want to come near make-up! But, take it from me: make-up done right doesn’t make you sweat.

Some thumb rules: summer make-up should be sheer and minimal. It should let the skin breathe. It is important to keep the humidity locked in as sweating dries the skin. You must also protect the skin by using moisturizers that have SPF factors of 15 plus, but always clean your face thoroughly before applying it. Try to follow these rules and you will look and feel great all through the summer.

Rule 1: Stay oil-free

It’s best to avoid a rich, creamy formulation. Use oil-free foundation, or skip the foundation altogether if possible. Instead, opt for tinted moisturizers. They provide a lighter coverage that stays on and on through long, hot days. You could also apply loose powder to even out your skin tone. However, take care not to overdo it. Make sure that your make-up and outfit shades are compatible and within the same palette—either warm or cool. If you must apply foundation, mix it with loose powder. It will keep you looking fresh through the day. If there’s excess foundation, or powder build-up in the under-eye area remove it with a clean cotton swab. Then, reapply a bit of loose powder to even out the texture.

Avoid using a creamy blusher. Use it sparingly if you must. Since the idea is to look natural, use it on the apples of the cheeks. You could also use a liquid tint for a blushed-cheek effect. Use a blusher that resembles your natural flush.

Rule 2: Keep blotting paper handy

You should blot any perspiration or oil build-up by pressing the blotting paper gently over the areas. Use sheer powder for the T-zone touch ups. Blot paper is available in MAC. You can also opt for a powder blusher.


Rule 3: Use waterproof products

Switch to products that can handle the heat and sweat. Look for long-wearing eyeliner which is also water-resistant. If it’s really hot and you don’t want to go to the trouble of applying full make-up, a touch of waterproof mascara and a little eyeliner will open up the eyes and bring your face to life. Limit yourself to one coat of mascara. First turn out your eye lashes with a curler, then apply water-proof mascara on the top eye lashes. For a lighter, more summery appearance, swap your black mascara for one that is either brown-black or brown.

Rule 4: Go easy on eye make-up

Eyes should be done simply. Use neutral and soft, shimmery eye-shadow on the lids. However, don’t be scared to use bright, bold colors. Maybelline New York has 4 color palettes in natural and bronze shades. You can try them out. Use an eyeliner pencil in shades like slate-grey, warm chocolate and navy blue. The liner should be applied very fine and with an upward slant to liven up the eyes. If you want, you can layer your liner with a matching eye-shadow to make it last long. Avoid applying the liner and mascara on the lower lashes as they are likely to streak the sweaty under-eye area.

Rule 5: Keep your lips moisturized

In the dry summer months, keep your lips well-moisturized. Drink plenty of fluids and use lip balm with added sun protection. The best way to dress up your pout is in nude or fruity colors. Lakme has a lovely range of fruity colors. Go for transparent pink or fruity lip glosses; avoid using very creamy or glossy lipsticks. Don’t line your lips. Instead, color them with a pencil and then apply a layer of lip gloss for a brighter look.

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