As we all know very well (courtesy of living in the Middle East), hot summer days and makeup don’t mix¬. When the temperatures rise, makeup tends to slide; come midday the foundation has an unwanted shine, the mascara has started to smudge, and eyeshadow is creased. But don't sweat it just yet; we’ve rounded up the best melt-proof products, which stay put even during the hottest summer day.
PRIMER
Applying a pea-sized amount of primer before you put on your foundation and concealer can go a long way. The Smashbox Photo Finish SPF 15 (US $42; AED/SAR 154) allows your base color to last longer than usual while the added SPF protection minimizes your morning routine and keeps skin shielded throughout the day. www.sephora.com
CONCEALER
Boasting 12-plus hours of staying power, the Lancôme Effacernes Waterproof Protective Undereye Concealer (US $30; AED/SAR 110) is a go-to on even the most sweltering summer days. The light-diffusing formula provides natural coverage and a soft, matte finish that won’t pool into fine lines. www.lancome-usa.com
FOUNDATION
Comfortable and hydrating, the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Even Finish Foundation SPF 15 (US $48; AED/SAR 176) provides medium to full coverage without looking cakey. Glycerin and shea butter keep skin feeling moisturized while a gel base creates a lightweight finish. This formula lasts for up to 12 hours and protects skin from future damage thanks to the broad spectrum SPF 15 with antioxidant vitamins C and E. www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com
EYESHADOW PRIMER
The Benefit Cosmetics Stay Don't Stray (US $26; AED/SAR 95) is a dual-action power primer that ensures makeup stays put so concealers don't crease and eyeshadows stay vibrant. It’s available in two neutral shades to suit all skin tones. www.benefitcosmetics.com
EYESHADOW
The Make Up For Ever Waterproof Aqua Cream (US $23; AED/SAR 84) combines a high quality pigment with mother of pearl particles to create a rich color with a luminous finish in just one application. Its long-lasting formula does not crease or smudge (even under the most extreme conditions) and its creamy and elastic texture allows for easy blending. Available in shades ranging from soft neutrals to pure bright tones, this cream comes in numerous colors to suit any occasion. www.makeupforever.com
EYELINER
With its waterproof formula, the Marc Jacobs Beauty Magic Marc'er Precision Pen Waterproof Eyeliner (US $30; AED/SAR 110) draws thin and thick lines ideal for accentuating the lash line or building a bolder look. This never-seen-before shade was developed in Japan to create the shiniest and blackest black on the market. www.sephora.com
MASCARA
This waterproof version of Clinique’s High Impact Mascara (US $16.50; AED/SAR 60) stands up to heat and humidity. Ophthalmologist-tested, it is safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers and comes off easily with your favorite eye makeup remover. www.clinique.com
EYEBROWS
The Estée Lauder Stay-in-Place Brow Lift Duo (US $27; AED/SAR 99) effortlessly shapes, fills, and defines arches for the ultimate lift that lasts. The highlighter brightens and accentuates to give height while the color defines brows. www.esteelauder.com
BLUSH
Although cream blushes are typically touted as being longer lasting than powder ones, the Cargo Swimmables™ Water Resistant Blush (US $26; AED/SAR 95) is a pressed powder that can compete with the best of them. Formulated with the amino acid L-Lysine for an impermeable finish, it offers hours of wear and a gorgeous summertime glow. www.cargocosmetics.com
BRONZER
Get a lit-from-within bronzed glow from the Too Faced Endless Summer 16 Hour Long-Wear Bronzer (US $30; AED/SAR 110). The Double Bond formula combines staying power technology with prolonged-wear pigments. These buildable bronze pigments can be dusted all over for an even glow. www.toofaced.com
LIPSTICK
The Ardency Inn MODSTER Long Play Lip Vinyl (US $23; AED/SAR 84) is a full-coverage lip color with the shine of a lacquer and the staying power of a stain. The intense colorful formula forms a non-sticky, thin, lacquered film that protects lips and stays in place for hours. www.sephora.com
As we all know very well (courtesy of living in the Middle East), hot summer days and makeup don’t mix. When the temperatures rise, makeup tends to slide; come midday the foundation has an unwanted shine, the mascara has started to smudge, and eyeshadow is creased. But don’t sweat it just yet; we’ve rounded up the best melt-proof products, which stay put even during the hottest summer day.
—Gracie Stewart
Homepage Image: Photographed by Mario Testino, Vogue, June 2007
