Summer is in full swing, which means sweaty season is upon us. We know that there’s nothing like frizzy hair or makeup sliding off your face to dim your summer glow. But here's the good news: Beauty brands have your back with sweat-proof makeup products for when you're having fun in the sun.
We spoke with various makeup artists, including beauty expert and celebrity makeup artist Ashlee Glazer, to help you summer-proof your beauty routine.
From waterproof products to summer makeup that'll give you a natural look, these pros have you covered with the beauty essentials you need to beat the heat. For reference, “a summer-friendly product is designed to be comfortable and wear beautifully even in hot and humid conditions,” explains Elimar Depaula, makeup artist and founder of Queen Cosmetics. “The main key features I look for in such products include being lightweight to avoid feeling heavy or clogging pores and smudge-proof to resist smearing.”
Keep reading to discover more sweat-proof hair, skin and makeup products experts rely on most in the hottest months. We even included some of our own top picks for making this your most confident, comfortable summer yet.
What features make a product sweat-proof? | Summer makeup seen on TODAY | Expert-approved makeup products for summer | Expert-approved serums, lotions and more | Editor-favorite summer makeup products | How we chose | Meet the experts
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What features make a product sweat-proof?
Of course, this depends on the type of makeup product you're using (for example, sweat-proof foundation will have different features than, say, smudge-proof mascara).
Still, “when looking for sweat-proof makeup, the most important is an oil controlling primer and a setting spray that contains a high amount of denatured alcohol to make your makeup sweat- and smudge-proof,” explains Depaula. “Non-comedogenic products are essential as they won’t clog pores, which is particularly important in hot weather since your pores will be more open. Additionally, a good loose powder will help lock your makeup in place and reduce shine.”
Additionally, Tonya Riner, celebrity makeup artist, recommends going light on the layers so your skin can breathe. Think: sheer application of both skincare and makeup. “Look for hybrids, like tinted moisturizers with sunscreen, so you can minimize the number of products overall,” she says. “I opt for mattifying, oil-free primers and use them only in the T-zone, followed by a sheer wash of tinted moisturizer strategically placed.”
Summer makeup to "beat the heat," as seen on TODAY
Prep
Nurse Jamie Super-Cryo Massaging Orb
To beat the heat, you'll need a tool to cool you down. This cryoball from Nurse Jamie, one of Hollywood's top skincare experts, should do the trick. The tool might be small, but it does wonders for de-puffing and cooling down the skin. Use with clean, dry skin or with your favorite skin care product to go around the curvatures of the face to boost circulation. Plus, it should stay cool for up to six hours.
ONE/SIZE by Patrick Starrr Mini On ‘Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray
"This setting spray sold out last year because it was used on Beyonce during her summer tour. And if it’s good enough for her, it’s good enough for me," notes Glazer. "Use a generous spritz before makeup after skincare to lock it all in to start the day the right way." And since its mini, you can stow this in your carry-on bag so your makeup stays in place even on your next vacay.
You can also shop the full-size version here.
Apply
Makeup by Mario Softsculpt Bronzing & Shaping Serum
Add a touch of warmth to your skin without needing to go underneath the sun. This Makeup by Mario bronzing serum adds a touch of color/tan to the skin that doesn't appear muddy. Outside of its lightweight formula, what makes this product unique is its applicator. You can either use the pump to add color all over the face, or use the wand to apply along the curves of the face.
Afterwards, Glazer recommends applying your favorite concealer wherever you desire.
Makeup For Ever HD Skin Matte Velvet Undetectable Longwear Blurring Powder Foundation
You might want to skip the liquid foundation to tackle the heat, suggests Glazer, and one of her favorite alternatives is using a powder foundation. This one from Makeup For Ever is her top pick, as it has a lightweight, medium-to-full coverage that gives a skin-like finish. But the best part of this foundation is that the brand claims it lasts up to 24 hours. Yes, really!
Touch up
Tatcha Aburatorigami Japanese Blotting Papers
In case of oiliness on parts of the face, use these blotting papers from Tatcha. According to the brand, they're made from natural abaca leaf and gold flakes, and shouldn't disrupt your makeup as you use. But, Glazer recommends to "press, not wipe onto the skin to pick up excess oil."
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water, Travel Size
"If you feel super gunky, take a little micellar water on your sponge and dab," suggests Glazer. "This will remove some makeup and cleanse the skin at the same time, so you’re not fully applying makeup over makeup." Micellar water is also efficient at removing debris and grime without irritating the skin and eyes, so at the end of the day, you can use this product as the first step to your double-cleansing routine. Plus, it requires no rinse!
Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Sheer Glow Tint Hydrating Foundation Stick
"Use a foundation stick for a quick touchup without the fuss," says Glazer. "Try to find something with a glow-y finish like this one from Charlotte Tilbury. It will work with the glaze of the day, giving you a glowingly refreshed look." The formula is also incredibly lightweight and hydrating, so it should be flexible enough to adapt with your movements and routine without affecting the finish.
Milk Makeup Cooling Water Jelly Tiny Lip + Cheek Bush Stain
Milk Makeup's Jelly Tint earned a stamp of approval from the Shop TODAY team during our Beauty Awards, and it is also a favorite of Glazer's. We love it because it leaves a natural stain on the lips and cheek that blends like a charm. It's a true "flush" on the skin that lasts, regardless of what the weather might bring this season.
You'll also notice that when applied, the product has a slight "cooling" effect we adore, especially during the heat.
Related
Expert-approved makeup products for summer
Waterproof lashes: L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara
- Clump-free
- Collagen-free
- Reviewers note it takes several coats to see product
Shades available: 5 | Waterproof? Yes | Key ingredients: Beeswax, collagen-infused ingredients
“This is my fav waterproof mascara, delivering high volume without any smushing or flaking under the eyes. Waterproof is the only way to go if you curl your lashes,” celebrity makeup artist Lynn Simpson says.
Eyeliner that "will not budge": L’oreal Paris Grip Mechanical Gel liners
- Waterproof
- Smudge-resistant
- Easy to use
- Not very pigmented
Shades available: 8 | Waterproof? Yes
Eyeliner lovers don’t have to forgo their favorite product just because the summer sun threatens to melt it off. According to Riner, this L’Oreal formula has “super saturated colors and will not budge.”
Lightweight 3-in-1: Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix Eye, Cheek and Lip Cream Pigment
- Can use on cheeks, lips and eyes
- Matte finish
- Reviewers note dispenser gets clogged
Shades available: 28 | Waterproof? Yes
If you’re looking for a versatile product, stop right here. Emmy-nominated celebrity makeup artist Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks uses this hybrid cream on her eyes, cheeks and lips. With an $18 price tag and more than 30 shades available, you might as well grab this cream in multiple colors so you can transform your summer beauty routine. Sheriff-Kendricks recommends mixing the creams to create your own palette.
Riner loves this product since it’s “waterproof and comes in gorgeous colors and finishes.” She continues, I love Latte for fair skin and Spicey for deeper skin tones.”
Sweatproof brow gel: Benefit 24-Hour Brow Setter
- 24-hour staying power
- Mess free
- Reviewers note it flakes off
Shades available: 1 | Waterproof? Yes | Key ingredients: Provitamin B5, polymers
“This sweat-proof, waterproof brow setter will keep your brows groomed and locked in place all day,” says Simpson to Shop TODAY. The brand’s Precisely, My Brow Waterproof Eyebrow Definer — available in 12 shades — is another one of our warm-weather must-have.
Add some color: Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick
- Built-in smudging sponge
- Great for beginners
- Reviewers note it doesn't have creamy finish
Shades available: 11 | Waterproof? Yes | Key ingredients: Aloe leaf extract and ceramide NP
“These eye shadow sticks stay on all day, are sweat-proof, and add instant definition to the eyes in one swipe. Pro tip: Focus on one eye at a time, applying and smudging out the edges with the fingertips or the built-in sponge for a fuss-free makeup moment!” says Aaron Barry, hairstylist and makeup artist.
For a dewy look: Saie Glowy Super Gel
- Lightweight
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Hydrating and moisturising
- Shoppers say feels greasy
- Some say too sheer coverage
Shades available: 3 | Waterproof? N/A
Remember when Riner recommended using fewer products? This one is all you need for a healthy summer glow. It “feels like nothing on your skin and gives a realistic, sophisticated glow,” says Riner. “Use your fingers and tap it on the high points of your face, collar bones and shoulders as the last step in your makeup application.”
Add some dimension: KVD Beauty Modcon Liquid-Gel Contour
- Transfer-resistant
- Liquid gel formula
- Reviewers note it dries quickly
Shades available: 8 | Waterproof? N/A | Key ingredients: Daisy flower extract
In order to master the contoured look, you need to think “subtle and soft” when applying it, Sheriff-Kendricks says. She recommends this contour balm because she says it gives you “realistic depth and dimension” without weighing you down.
Recreate a "sun-kissed glow": RMS Beauty ReDimension HydrBronzer
- Natural looking bronzer
- Luminous finish
- Buildable product
- Coverage may be too sheer
- Complaints of drying
Shades available: 5 | Waterproof? N/A | Key ingredients: Organic jojoba oils, wildcrafted buriti
According to Riner, this bronzer has a new gel to powder formula that “that lets your skin breathe while adding the most natural sun-kissed glow.”
Make it waterproof: Melanie Mills Hollywood Super Lite Long Lasting Sealing Spray
- Aerosol spray for even coverage
- Works on face and body
- Higher price point
- Contains alcohol
Waterproof? Yes | Key Ingredients: Camellia sinensis leaf extract, jojoba seed extract, white tea leaf extract
In order to ensure your makeup withstands the summer heat all day long, Sheriff-Kendricks suggests using this setting spray. By making your makeup waterproof, this spray will allow you to “truly live life in the summertime,” according to the Emmy-nominated makeup artist.
For a long-lasting look: Smashbox Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Primer
- Oil-free
- Contains vitamin A and E
- Higher price point for size
Waterproof? N/A | Key ingredients: Free of sulfates SLS and SLES, parabens, phthalates
“Using a primer in the summer can seriously extend the life of your makeup in the most humid and balmy weather. This clean primer works for all skin types (from oily to dry), controls shine, smooths and plumps the skin and is rich in antioxidants,” Lisa Aharon, celebrity makeup artist, says.
Humidity-proof: KVD Beauty Good Apple Full-Coverage Transfer-Proof Serum Foundation
- Lightweight
- Max coverage
- Reviewers note it's not great for acne coverage
Shades available: 40 | Waterproof? N/A | Key ingredients: Quince leaf extract, nourishing apple extract, glycerin
In an ideal world, our makeup bags would be full of mind-blowing products we cannot get enough of. In Sheriff-Kendricks’ eyes, this full coverage foundation is truly mind-blowing. Not only does this beauty expert say this foundation controls shine and withstands humidity, but she says it offers a natural finish that lasts all day.
Don't forget the SPF: Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Primer
- Invisible
- Fragrance-free
- Contains SPF
- On the expensive side
Waterproof? | N/A Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
Sheriff-Kendricks tells all her clients, “you cannot paint your walls without primer” — and in the world of makeup, the same sentiment is true. You need primer to smooth over skin imperfections and create a “flawless canvas” for your makeup. She recommends this primer because it protects you from UV rays while hydrating your skin before a fresh face of makeup.
For effortless coverage: Real Techniques Ultra Plush Blush Makeup Brush
When applying your foundation, Glazer says a fluffy brush like Real Techniques’ Ultra Plush Makeup Brush “will give you a sheer and even distribution for a lightweight feathery coverage.” With light strokes, this process should prevent a heavy application so that your skin looks and feels like skin throughout the day. You can also use the brush to apply powder bronzer and blush.
Expert-approved serums, lotions and more for summer
"Incredibly cooling": Humphreys Soothe Witch Hazel Spray Toner with Rose
- Organic
- Reviewers note it has a greasy finish
Key ingredients: Certified organic witch hazel
“The combination of cucumber and witch hazel is incredibly cooling and rejuvenating, and the soothing alcohol-free mist helps tone down redness and keeps my complexion looking calm and clear. The Witch Hazel + Cucumber is my personal go-to for summertime, but all of Humphrey’s toner mists are the perfect size to toss into my bag or purse and take with me wherever I go. It’s a must-have product for me when the weather warms up!” Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at the Shafer Clinic tells us.
Refresh your skin: Cocokind Rosewater Toner
- Organic
- Dermatologist recommended
- Has slight rose fragrance
Key ingredients: Rosa damascena flower water, radish root ferment filtrate
“I live in Florida so I’m very familiar with humidity and heat, especially in the summer. Rose hydrosols in a mist are my go-to for summer and travel. They act as an astringent toner, anti-inflammatory agent and hydrator all in one. Put it in the fridge for an extra refreshing effect,” Krupa Koestline, clean cosmetic chemist and founder of KKT Consultants, tells us.
Summer cleanser: iS Clinical Cleansing Complex
- Gentle exfoliation with sugarcane
- Great for acne prone skin
- Doesn’t foam
Key ingredients: White willow bark, sugarcane, centella asiatica
Though not necessarily made to combat sweat, the right face wash is necessary in the summer. “This cleanser combines the effects of salicylic acid, antioxidants and plant extracts to keep skin appearing bright while gently exfoliating. This is especially helpful in the summer months if you are wearing sunscreen, which may block pores,” Dr. John C. Layke, DO, board-certified plastic surgeon and co-founder of the Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Group says.
Gentle exfoliator: Theraderm Fruit Acid Exfoliant
- Exfoliates skin
- Minimizes appearance of pores
- Requires 10 drops per application
Key Ingredients: Unbuffered lactic acid
According to Sheriff-Kendricks, everyone should exfoliate two to three times a week during the summer because of excessive heat and humidity. She recommends this exfoliant for its gentle, deep-cleaning formula that “will give you new skin.”
Editor-favorite makeup products for summer
Maybelline Volum’ Express The Rocket Mascara
- Affordable
- Adds volume
- Complaints of flaking
Shades available: 1 | Waterproof: Yes
Associate editor Allie Wise says she is "obsessed" and recommends this waterproof mascara because it makes her lashes look full and voluminous. "The best part is that it stays on during the smoldering summer heat," she says. "I walk to work every day and often times my foundation will be a complete mess by the time I get to the office, but my mascara is always still perfect. Highly recommend!"
One/Size Point Made Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner Pen
- Pigmented formula
- Easy to apply
- Shoppers say smudges
- Shoppers say dries up quickly
Shades available: 3 | Waterproof: Yes
Senior SEO Editor Jess Bender says loves this eyeliner because she says it lives up to the promise of long-wear. "It went on smoothly, accurately and 'bodaciously black' (appropriate name for the dramatically dark finish)," she says. "Most importantly, it remained smudge-free as I ventured out in the humid city streets, the even more humid subway platform and throughout a cardio-loaded, dancehall-themed spin class where I was violently dripping sweat."
How we chose
We chose summer-proof makeup through a mix of editorial review, dermatologist recommendations and makeup artist recommendations. We also included editor favorites from Shop TODAY.
Meet the experts
- Tonya Riner is a beauty expert and celebrity makeup artist with over 30 years of experience.
- Elimar Depaula is a makeup artist and founder of Queen Cosmetics.
- Ashunta Sheriff-Kendricks is an experienced celebrity makeup artist who's been Emmy-nominated.
- Lynn Simpson is a California-based celebrity makeup artist.
- Aaron Barry is a hairstylist and makeup artist based in Los Angeles, California.
- Lisa Aharon is a celebrity makeup artist based in New York, New York.
- Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, is a Mohs surgeon at the Shafer Clinic.
- Krupa Koestline, a clean cosmetic chemist, is the founder of KKT Consultants.
- Dr. John C. Layke, DO, is a board-certified plastic surgeon and co-founder of the Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Group.
