Makeup Meltdowns – and How to Avoid Them

Have you ever had your face slide off? Here in Central California, where the summer temps hit 100 on a regular basis, it can be a common problem. And what doesn’t slide off, simply disappears. But, with some simple changes, you can stop the slide and make your makeup sizzle.
• Use a foundation primer. It may sound counterintuitive to add another layer, but the right primer will help you save face, literally. Find one that works with your skin type, and is light. It should be absorbed into your skin almost immediately.
• Don’t use an oil-based foundation. I tend to advise against oil-based foundations all year round, but especially during summer.
• In fact, pack away anything oil or wax based. Wax and oil melt in heat. This means smeared eyeliner, feathered lipstick, and uneven foundation.
• For the face: If you can go with light makeup, a tinted moisturizer is a wonderful trick. It stays where it’s supposed to and evens out skin tone. If you need to wear more makeup, like my friends who work on T.V., find a medium coverage foundation (not oil-based) and apply two light coats. You will get the coverage you need, and it will last. Also, use a pressed powder instead of a loose powder. Loose powder can actually melt and disappear faster.
• For eyes: Put away the liner and start use powder eye shadow in a darker color. Use an angled liner brush to apply the powder along your lash line. You’ll love how long it lasts in the heat. To avoid creases on the eyelid, try using a shadow primer. It makes the shadow stay in place.
• For lips: Lip gloss is perfect for summer. If you must wear lipstick, dust powder over your lips first, to give it a good base to stick to.
• Two things to carry with you now: blotting papers and a makeup sponge. If your makeup does start to slip, blot off any excess oil, then gently smooth out the makeup with the sponge (including eye shadow). Don’t add powder on top of an oily face. It will turn grayish on your skin. Blot, blot, blot!

Send your makeup questions or comments to me at: Sabrinahill@marykay.com or visit my website at: www.marykay.com/sabrinahill.