Summer Makeup Tips That Actually Keep Your Face On

If “just wear less makeup” isn’t cutting it, here’s how to beat the heat without sacrificing your makeup look.

Whether it’s a full glam day, a quick beat for brunch, or a long event in the blazing heat, I still want to show up with my face on—and have it stay there!

So after years of navigating hot, sweaty summers with combination-oily skin, I’ve figured out what actually works.

Here are my go-to summer makeup tips to help you stay fresh, matte (if that’s your vibe), and cute all season long.

Switch to a Gel Moisturizer

Creamy winter moisturizers don’t do us any favors in the heat. If you want your makeup to last, start your routine with a gel-based moisturizer.

These feel lighter on the skin, absorb quickly, and don’t compete with your makeup throughout the day.

Bonus: Some gels come with SPF included, so you get hydration and protection in one.

Choose an SPF Stick for Easy Reapplication

If you’re wearing makeup, SPF sticks are your new best friend.

They let you apply (and reapply!) sun protection without disturbing your makeup.  Plus, many SPF sprays and lotions can add unwanted shine—so a stick formula helps you stay protected and polished.

Look for a non-greasy finish that won’t break down your look.

Don’t Skip the Primer

Whether you’re oily, dry, or somewhere in between, primer gives your makeup something to hold onto.

• Gel or gripping primers are great for a natural finish
• Mattifying primers work wonders on oily areas like the T-zone

The key is applying the right primer to the right places—and yes, you can mix and match.

Be Strategic with Setting Powder

Powder is your secret weapon in the heat, but placement matters.

Use a loose setting powder to set your makeup, then take a powder puff and press it into oil-prone areas—think nose, forehead, and chin.

You don’t need to bake, but being intentional with how you powder can make a huge difference.

Double Down with Pressed Powder

After setting your makeup, add a layer of pressed powder with a fluffy brush.

Use a translucent one or something that matches your skin tone.

This adds another level of lock-in, especially if you’ll be out in the sun or sweating.

It’s a game-changer for those long, hot days.

Cream + Powder Is the Dream Combo

Cream products look beautiful in the summer—but they don’t always last.

The solution? Layer cream and powder versions of the same product.

• Apply your cream blush, bronzer, or highlighter
• Then go over it with a powder version in the same tone

You’ll get the glow and softness of creams with the staying power of powders.  Best of both worlds.

Know the Difference: Setting Spray vs. Fixing Spray

The setting vs fixing spray conversation started on social media but its true that there is a difference between traditional setting sprays and what beauty lovers have coined “fixing sprays.

Let’s clear this up:

• Setting sprays help your makeup melt together for a seamless look
• Fixing sprays lock it in place and add staying power

The label isn’t really what determines if its a setting spray vs fixing spray either.  Most sprays are labeled as “finishing sprays” or “setting sprays”.

Look for these key benefits when choosing a fixing spray: transfer resistant, water resistant, abrasion-resistant, sweat resistant, 16+ hour wear (or more).

If you want your makeup to stay, a fixing spray is the move. Use a setting spray to blend everything, then follow with a fixing spray to keep it locked—even through sweat.

Bring a Touch-Up Kit

You don’t need your whole makeup bag—just a few key pieces to keep you fresh:

• A small pressed or loose powder (translucent or skin tone-matching)
• A travel powder puff
• Optional: a setting spray in a mini bottle

Pro tip: You can buy empty powder compacts and fill them with your fav powders. That way, you don’t have to risk your expensive products getting damaged in your purse or travel bag.

Always Carry a Spare Powder Puff

It sounds basic, but trust—this is the one thing that can rescue your makeup mid-day. You can get multi-packs online and throw one in every bag. Whether your makeup’s getting shiny or a little patchy, a quick press from a puff can bring it back to life.

 

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to ditch makeup just because it’s hot outside. With the right prep and a few strategic swaps, your face can survive even the sweatiest summer days.

These summer makeup tips have saved me year after year—and now they’re yours. So whether you’re doing a full beat or just want your blush to hang on until happy hour, you’ve got options.

Your summer look? Secured.

 

This post was all about summer makeup tips. Check out more makeup posts on Nubelease below!