How to stop shine ruining your make-up this summer

The heat brings about a myriad of issues when it comes to maintaining our summer glam. From sweat to shine to frizz – high and humid temperatures are not on our side when it comes to looking flawless.

If you’re struggling to keep your make-up in place and looking great throughout the hot summer days, here are the hacks you need to beat the heat.

Do the prep

“Keeping your skin well-balanced is key to managing shine,” says Katie Walker, beauty expert and deputy editor of Beauty Answers. “Start with a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Don’t forget about exfoliation, as it helps to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and contribute to shine.”

Face Theory Supergel Oil-Free Moisturiser – 50ml, £16

Of course, ensuring you’re using the right products is integral. If you’re using a ‘luminous’ foundation, this is probably going to give too much shine. However, an integral step is primer.

“Not all primers are created equally, some serve to give skin glow, others are all about creating a smooth texture. When you’re up against oil, heat, and sweat, you want something that’s going to be durable and long-lasting. Silicones (anything that ends in ‘-icone’ – commonly dimethicone) are going to be your new best friend – they serve to create an invisible barrier between your skin and your make-up that prevents oil and sweat from disturbing your base.”

The Ordinary High-Adherence Silicone Primer – 30ml, £6

The make-up

When it comes to the make-up itself, the application is just as important as the products. “Focus on long-wearing formulas. Use a long-lasting foundation and set it with a reliable setting spray,” says Walker.

Mattifying and oil-free products are your go to, adds Ferns. “Try dusting a thin layer of face powder in between each layer of make-up to set each one separately, then do a final layer of powder once you’ve finished application, focusing on your T-zone which is where most of the oil glands on your face are.

“Finally, use a setting spray to seal it all in. Far more than just a face mist, setting sprays work by creating a weightless film across your make-up to hold it in place and add some waterproofing power,” she says.