The Perfect Summer Makeup Routine for Oily Skin
By: Ailis Beauty
Tags: Makeup Tips, Makeup Products, Makeup

Whoever said, “women don’t sweat, they glisten,” has obviously never had to put on a full face of permanent makeup in Portland in the sweltering heat of the summer months. Despite the fact that we all enjoy the summer, we don’t enjoy it when our makeup melts. Not only do you don’t want to waste your time putting on your makeup, but you also don’t want to get confused between a dewy look and the look that says “I just finished at the gym.”

Given my oily skin, my summer makeup routine for oily skin consists of oil-free and mattifying products to prevent the appearance of excessive shine on the skin. Here are six of my favourite ways to keep my makeup looking fresh throughout the summer.

Ailis Beauty

1. Don’t forget to prime your engine.

The use of a primer is essential for long-lasting makeup. Using a pea-sized amount of primer, apply it to moisturised skin before applying your foundation and concealer. I use Smashbox Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer ($39) to minimise the appearance of my large pores and to control the amount of shine in my T-zone.

2. Get rid of your full-coverage foundation.

When the weather is hot and humid, the last thing you want to do is bury your skin beneath a layer of foundation on your face. After all, you wouldn’t want to be wearing a heavy sweater in the middle of summer, would you?

Make room for your skin’s natural ability to breathe by using lightweight BB creams, CC creams, or tinted moisturisers (with plenty of SPF for sun protection). The Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20 — Oil Free ($45) and the It Cosmetics CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ ($38) are the two products I like to alternate between. If you put on as little as possible, the less there will be to slide off in the heat. Using a dampened beauty sponge, apply your base for a light and sheer layer of protection.

Less coverage means more transparency, which can be a problem if you have problem areas such as redness, acne, or dark spots on your face or body. To hide imperfections when I’m having a bad skin day, I use concealer wherever it’s needed — my favourite concealer is NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer ($30).

3. Opt for cream rather than powder.

Powder and sweat are not a good combination. Wherever possible, opt for cream formulations (blushes, shadows, and highlighters). Their glistening effect is always welcome, and they tend to cake less than other products. In the shade, Glossier Cloud Paint ($18) is used. Dusk is my go-to for a natural summer blush that isn’t too heavy. It is sheer, but it is also buildable, making it simple to use. Make a quick swipe across your eyelids with Glossier Lidstar ($18) for a subtle sheen and a wash of colour, and you’re ready for the day.

If you’d like more information on any of the Glossier makeup products, check out our comprehensive review of the entire line.

4. Apply your makeup in a way that prevents shine.

A dewy finish is perfect for summer, but you don’t want to look like you’ve been working out. Use a loose translucent powder to set your makeup and keep your T-zone from becoming shiny. Laura Mercier’s Translucent Loose Setting Powder ($38) is colourless, which means it will be less likely to slide off your face in the heat. Use Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets ($5) to quickly absorb excess grease when you need a quick fix.

5. Make sure your makeup is sweat-proof.

We’re busy ladies who rely on our makeup to last throughout the day, whether it’s at the office, the gym, the pool, or brunch plans. Setting spray works in the same way that hairspray does for your hair; it keeps all of your makeup in place. The setting sprays from Urban Decay will keep your makeup from smudging, creasing, or fading in the heat. There are several different types to choose from. The Urban Decay De-Slick Oil-Control Makeup Setting Spray ($15) is my personal favourite.

When it comes to summer heat, waterproof mascara is a no-brainer. It’s also possible to ditch your kohl eyeliner pencil in favour of a waterproof liquid formal that will not smudge.

6. Make use of lip tints only.

While wearing lipstick in the heat, be aware that it may smudge and melt, and that lipgloss may become runny and sticky. Lip tints are my best friend when it comes to the summer months. With a hint of lip colour, you can maintain a natural and effortless appearance no matter what type of lip product you use. Glossier Generation G sheer matte lipsticks ($18) are something I always have in my purse.