How to Get Your Makeup Kit in Order for a Climate Switch

Did you know that you can translate all of your favourite makeup looks to hot weather with a few simple switches? Much like you swap out your turtlenecks for tank tops when you head to a warmer climate, your summer makeup kit also needs an overhaul. Waterproof makeup is a smart switch because it stands up to all kinds of moisture, from sweat to humidity. In short, it’s the best way to ensure you look polished and put together all summer long.

So, how to build a summer makeup starter kit? Here are some smudge-free, humidity-proof summer makeup essentials.

Primer:

To get a nearly perfect summer makeup canvas, you’ll want to add a primer to your makeup kit. Try L’Oréal Paris Infallible Matte Lock Mattifying Primer—it acts like a shield between your skin and the elements so that humidity can’t disrupt your makeup and/or seep into pores and fine lines (not a good look!). Sure, a primer may seem like an extra step, but it will save you time in the long run (fewer touch-ups throughout the day). To use, apply a pea-size amount in a thin veil over your whole face, working from the centre and T-zone out toward your jawline. (The T-zone is the oiliest, so it’s best to cover that first.) 

Foundation:

You’ll need a waterproof foundation that won’t crack under (barometric) pressure. To beat the heat, try a long-wear foundation like L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24HR Fresh Wear Foundation—it’s waterproof and sweatproof but also breathable so it still has a second-skin finish. The trick to applying this summer makeup essential is to dab it on your skin with a damp egg-shaped makeup sponge; this helps work the product into your skin for flawless, even coverage without brush streaks or any harsh edges (which otherwise can be really evident in hot weather).

Concealer:

Even giant sunglasses can’t fully hide dark circles! Cue the concealer: It’s a must year-round but an absolute non-negotiable makeup essential in summer. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Full Wear Concealer has an oversized doe-foot wand applicator so you can cover dark circles, as well as other discolourations elsewhere on your face, with a single swipe. The waterproof formula stays put all day, and there’s no creasing. It’s also super-blendable, so once you cover your blemish or discolouration, all you see is gorgeous skin.

Highlighter:

We all know the importance of SPF when you’re spending days at the beach, but that doesn’t mean you want to skip the glow altogether! L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion is super-versatile so you can wear it either under or over foundation for an instant boost. The liquid formula is a summer makeup kit essential because it melts into the skin and creates a healthy glow and dewy finish that look amazing in summer-holiday photos. It can also be dabbed on your cheekbones and the bridge of your nose with your fingers to add instant luminosity.

Mascara:

If you make just one key swap to look good poolside, go for a waterproof mascara like L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Waterproof Lash Paradise Mascara. Waterproof formulas are specially designed to hold the curl and volume so that lashes don’t droop when the humidity hits. They also keep smudges at bay. To remove waterproof mascara with ease, use an oil-based bi-phase makeup remover. To use this type of makeup remover, shake it up, pour some onto a cotton pad and then wipe away mascara; follow with your regular cleanser.

Lip colour:

You can’t talk about summer makeup essentials without stocking up on some bold lippies. Get the look du jour with a liquid ink like L’Oréal Paris Rouge Signature Lipstick in I Don’t. It’s the perfect texture for summer: It goes on as an extremely thin veil of colour so it feels super-weightless, but it’s as intensely pigmented as a liquid matte lipstick. It’s shiny, dries to a matte finish and doesn’t slide off and has a precision applicator so you can create a defined lip line and lock colour in place!