The Best Sweat-Proof Makeup Tips, According to Experts

One of the biggest downsides of hot weather can be the impact it has on your beauty routine. From greasy hair to excessively oily T-Zones, we all know the struggle. And with record-breaking temperatures taking over the UK this week, the heatwave is about to take its toll on our makeup. We don't all sweat evenly across the face, either. The term "SULA" (sweaty upper lip alert), which was coined by Emma Roberts's character in the 2008 film "Wild Child", is extremely relatable at this time of year. And to be honest, some of us have this dilemma all year round.

We can't stand in front of our beloved fans all day (even if we wanted to). So, what's the sweat-proof solution? You might want to consider changing up your products and techniques.

"The reasons people want sweat-proof, long-wear makeup differ, but they often come down to people having allergies or runny eyes, going to events where tears are expected like weddings, or simply preferring their products to have a longer wear time," makeup artist Jonet Williamson tells POPSUGAR. "Products like waterproof foundation are mainly used for tattoo coverage so that makeup won't transfer to clothing, but for stage performances where sweat is expected, an underwater photo shoot or rain scene, or even an extremely hot day where you need your makeup to stay on, waterproof foundation can be extremely handy."

Below, Williamson and Joy Howieson, founder and CEO of Project Lip, are breaking down the best tips and practices.

Sweat-Proof Makeup Tip 1: Preparation Is Key

You wouldn't wallpaper a wall without fixing the texture, giving it a good wash, and applying the proper primer and paste, would you? Think of your pre-makeup skin-care routine in the same light.

"With warmer weather, we're likely to sweat more and lose essential moisture, so it's important to keep the skin as hydrated as possible to ensure the makeup sits well. I would use an oil-based cleanser to remove dirt buildup, then an alcohol-free toner, as they tend to not dry out our skin. Look to switch to a lighter moisturiser, with a more lightweight water-based texture; this can keep your skin feeling nourished and hydrated without feeling too heavy in the heat," Howieson says. "And don't forget to protect yourself by applying SPF."

Sweat-Proof Makeup Tip 2: Use "Waterproof" Products Sparingly

Waterproof products, which are normally full coverage and labelled things like "24-hour" and "all-night", will save the day in hot weather if your main concern is coverage. Some people prefer to go down the foundation-free route or opt for a tinted moisturiser — we love the Nars Cosmetics Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser (£33). According to Howieson, a full-coverage foundation can look quite heavy. "You want lightweight formulas and sheer finishes that are breathable and light on the skin, such as Georgio Armani's Luminous Silk Foundation (£36). I always apply with a damp beauty sponge for that airbrushed look. I tend to have slightly more coverage around hard-to-reach areas such as the sides of the nose; these are infamous for cracking and separating in the sunlight."

Should you decide to go the heavy-duty route with waterproof products, there are some things to keep in mind. "One of the main drawbacks of waterproof makeup is that removing it can be a pain," Williamson says. "You'll need face cleansers that are formulated specifically to remove waterproof makeup, and even then, some can only be removed with 99 percent alcohol."

If you're a bit hit or miss with your nightly skin-care routine (relatable), make extra sure you're setting aside time to fully take off your makeup if using waterproof products before bed. Otherwise, you may risk clogged pores and breakouts due to product buildup. The Skin Proud Detox Tonic (£15), which is packed with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid, will get the job done.

Sweat-Proof Makeup Tip 3: Tweak Your Technique

Another thing to know is that you may have to switch up your normal technique when applying budge-proof products. "With waterproof makeup, you'll typically need to work quickly, because once it dries down, it won't budge," Williamson says. "For example, waterproof eyeliners aren't the best to use for smudged-out smoky eyes because they dry down too fast and are hard to blend. Eye kohls would be a better option here, but they may not be waterproof, so it's all about finding the perfect balance for your needs."

Sweat-Proof Makeup Tip 4: Find the Right Sweat-Proof Products

So what exactly are the products you'll need if you want to achieve truly sweat- and waterproof makeup? "For complexion, Skin Illustrator's Flesh Tone Palettes (£85) are a must have for me," Williamson says. "Because you need 99 percent alcohol to activate them, they are truly waterproof. You could even take a shower with soap and warm water and they will not budge."

Even if your makeup doesn't have any long-wearing claims, there's a trick that you can use to make whatever you're using budge-proof. "AJ Crimson Dual Skin Creme (£39) and Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer (£27) are extremely heavy duty, sweat proof, and, most importantly, water resistant," Williamson says. "While this differs from being completely waterproof, using water-resistant makeup set with a locking mist like Mehron's Barrier Spray (£7) will help it stay in place." Other waterproof products that Williamson recommends are the L'Oréal Voluminous Carbon Mascara (£10), Make Up For Ever Aqua Resist Colour Pencil (£18), and Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Eye Pencils (£14).

You can use a regular setting spray to make sure you don't look too shiny and slick. "I would use Urban Decay's All Nighter Setting Spray (£27)," Howieson suggests. "This lightweight and delicate spray offers extremely lightweight coverage, plus it's formulated with temperature-control technology — fighting high humidity and heat to ensure your makeup doesn't smudge, melt, or fade."

Sweat-Proof Makeup Tip 5: Don't Ditch the Powder

You might be tempted to exclusively use creamy or liquid products when it's hot, but powder products can be extremely useful during heatwaves. "I find that I keep reaching for a cream blush, such as Glossier Cloud Paint (£17), over powders as they enhance the sun-kissed look and give a fresher and more natural look. Just pat across the cheeks and bridge of the nose for a natural, flushed-from-within glow," Howieson says. "However, I don't ditch powder entirely, as keeping that flawless base perfect in high temperatures can be a battle. Always dust a light setting powder across the T-zone to keep makeup in place so it can absorb the sweat and oil before it appears."

Sweat-Proof Makeup Tip 6: Keep Lipsticks Light

Lip makeup is always a good choice, but you might want to avoid the heavier formulas when it's hot. Howieson recommends switching heavy lipsticks for hydrating balms and glosses. "Balms replenish vital moisture, and you don't have to worry about colour smearing. A matte finish is always a go-to, as they sit longer than creamy textures, which can smudge when we talk, sweat, and drink — all things I know we will be doing under the sun." The Matte Plumping Primer from Project Lip (£13) keeps lips hydrated and soft thanks to a host of hydrating ingredients, such as vitamin E, plus the primer also plumps lips thanks to its chilli complex.

Now that you've got all the tips to make your makeup waterproof, go ahead and watch that tear-jerker you've been putting off as a test. Your makeup will look just as good during the closing credits as they did the opening scene.

— Additional reporting by Ariel Baker