Summer Makeup: The Ultimate Guide to Fresh and Radiant Looks for Sunny Days

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As the daytime temperature rises, so do the obstacles to ensuring your makeup looks fresh and flawless.

Heat, humidity, and sweat can turn an immaculately applied face into a smeared mess, making it important to alter your makeup routine for those soon-to-be scorching months.

I’ll share expert tips, must-have products, and step-by-step techniques to help you achieve a glowing, long-lasting summer look.

Whether you are unwinding by the beach, going to an outdoor event, or running errands, I’ve got you covered with makeup ideas that can hold up to the heat so you can make it through the day and not melt away like Frosty when spring comes.

What you can expect:

• Best Summer-Proof Products: Lightweight foundations, SPF-infused formulas, and budge-proof necessities.
• Expert Tips & Tricks: How to prep your skin, control shine, and enhance your natural glow.
• Application Techniques: A guided approach to achieving a fresh, breathable, and luminous summer look.

Now, let’s get into the ultimate summer makeup routine that will have you radiant the whole summer!

Photo by Lisa Saephan

In This Post:

• Understanding Summer Makeup Essentials

• Preparing Your Skin for Summer Makeup

• Summer Makeup Must-Haves

• Step-by-Step Guide to a Fresh Summer Makeup Look

• Tips for Long-Lasting Summer Makeup

• Summer Makeup Trends for 2025

• Bold Color Accents: Pops of Color for Eyes or Lips

• Sustainable Makeup: Eco-Friendly and Refillable Options

 

Understanding Summer Makeup Essentials

What makes Summer Makeup different?

In the Summer, it’s hot (and sometimes humid), so when you add a ton of makeup, it just adds weight and discomfort. Things to consider are:

• Lightweight formulas help with skin breathability and comfort. Heavy makeup is more prone to melting in the heat. That’s the last thing you’d want to deal with on a hot day.

• Sweat-proof or water-proof formulas can help to maintain a fresh appearance, regardless of perspiration. 

• SPF protection is extremely important all year round, but when it comes to summer, it’s even more necessary with more sun exposure. Use makeup products with SPF formulated within them, or a stand-alone sunscreen.

Whichever you choose, just make sure to stay protected from harmful UV rays.

Key features of Summer-friendly products

What should you look for when selecting summer makeup? Here are some aspects to look for:

• Breathability: Products that allow the skin to breathe prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

• Non-comedogenic formulas don’t block pores and are extremely important for avoiding acne in the summer months.

• Long-lasting products reduce the need for touch-ups, which help maintain your look throughout the day. 

 

Common mistakes to avoid

For a flawless and glowing look all summer long, steer clear of these frequent misconceptions:

• Heavy layering: Your face isn’t a cake, so layering will only lead you to that unwanted cakey appearance, which increases sweating. Take a minimalistic approach and opt for lightweight products instead. 

• Not using SPF is a bad idea. When you skip sunscreen, you can get sunburn and long-term skin damage. So, experts highly advise you to use sunscreen, whether formulated within your makeup or used alone. 

• Not hydrating is also a very important thing to skip out on. When skin is dehydrated, it leads to excess oils that try to compensate for the moisture loss. The use of hydrating products maintains this balance. 

When you take into consideration the importance of the key ingredients and avoid these common mistakes, you’ll achieve a glowing and radiant look all season long. 

 

Preparing Your Skin for Summer Makeup

To get that fresh and long-lasting summer makeup look, begins with preparing the skin like a canvas, clean and fresh.

Just imagine adding makeup to an oily and dirty face; it just masks and clogs pores instead of accentuating your natural beauty.

Here’s how to get your skin ready for the warmer months:

• Regular cleaning removes dirt, sweat, and oil clogging up your pores. Choose a lightweight and gentle moisturizing cleanser to achieve and maintain balance. I use this one:

Photo by Lisa Saephan

Cerave Hydrating Cream-to-foam cleanser

It’s great for cleaning off dirt, makeup, and oils. I also like that it foams when you rub it between your fingers.  

• Exfoliating with a gentle exfoliator 2-3 times a week helps remove dead cells and promotes a smoother and younger complexion.

Whatever you do, do not over-exfoliate as this can result in skin irritation. This is the one I like to use: 

Photo by Lisa Saephan

Kate Somerville- Exfolikate

It leaves my skin feeling so clean, and a bit tingly too. 

• Hydrate with water-based, lightweight moisturizers so skin stays hydrated and doesn’t feel heavy. This will provide you with the perfect smooth canvas for your makeup. I like this moisturizer:

Photo by Lisa Saephan

The Face Shop- Rice ceramide moisturizing emulsion

It’s lightweight and has such a light, clean scent that even my sensitive nose isn’t bothered by it.

SPF is a Must!

Protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays is non-negotiable, and there are just no excuses these days because they’re in many products we already use. Here is how to do it without affecting your makeup:

• Application:

Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 should be the final step of your skincare routine, and before your makeup goes on.

Allow the sunscreen to absorb completely, and you should have the best outcome to adding primer and the remaining steps of your makeup routine. 

• How to choose the right sunscreen:

First of all, know your skin type and choose a sunscreen formulated for it, and you’ll benefit from the comfort and compatibility with other makeup products it will provide.

I tend to buy foundations, CC, and BB creams with SPF, so I usually skip this part. 

 

Priming

There are many options in primers out there, so how do you know which one to choose for a scorching summer day? 

• Oil control:

To keep oils under control, pick a primer that has mattifying features, and this will create a smooth base for your foundation.

• Longevity:

Some primers have a “gripping property” which keeps the foundation bonded better and longer to your skin. 

 

Here are some Primers I like using:

Photo by Lisa Saephan

e.l.f Power Grip Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizes & Primes.

This is a great primer that really grips well, and the price is great too. It works all day or all night. It works well when I want a dewy makeup look.

Photo by Lisa Saephan

e.l.f Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer, Evens Skin & Brightens, Grips Makeup, Vegan & Cruelty-Free

This is a great primer that my daughter uses, and it’s great because it has skin care in it, hence the Niacinamide.

Photo by Lisa Saephan

e.l.f. Power Grip Matte Primer, Gel-Based & Hydrating Face Primer for Smoothing Skin & Gripping Makeup, Moisturizes & Primes, Vegan & Cruelty-Free.

This primer is awesome, and I love that it gives a matte finish instead of a dewy finish.

Photo by Lisa Saephan

Rare Beauty Always an Optimist Pore Diffusing Primer

 I like this primer because it leaves my skin feeling soft. By following these steps, you can ensure your skin is well-prepared for summer makeup, resulting in a fresh and radiant look that withstands the heat.

If you follow these tips, I assure you that your skin will be well prepared for summer makeup, giving you a lightweight and glowing look that can stand up to any hot weather.

Related: Top 10 Benefits of Facial Serum for a Better Skincare Regimen

 

Summer Makeup Must-Haves

Photo by Lisa Saephan

Summer Makeup Must-Haves

To get a fresh and glowing summer look, go for products that are lightweight, long-lasting, and fitting for warmer temperatures.

Here’s a guide to help you choose the ideal choices for each feature of your makeup routine:

Sunscreen

Incorporating a standalone sunscreen into your daily skincare routine is necessary for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, preventing wrinkles, and reducing your risk of skin cancer.

When selecting a sunscreen to wear under makeup, it’s important to choose a formula that offers broad-spectrum protection, feels lightweight, and doesn’t hinder makeup application. Here is what I like to use:​

Photo by Lisa Saephan

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30 with Sheer Tint, Tinted Mineral Sunscreen

It feels lightweight and is perfect for my sensitive skin. It doesn’t feel greasy or clog up my pores.

To Apply Sunscreen Under Makeup…

• Apply liberally: Squeeze a nickel-sized amount to ensure adequate coverage.

• Allow for Absorption time: Let sunscreen fully absorb before proceeding with primer and makeup.

• Choose Appropriate Formulas: Go for sunscreens with a matte or a natural finish to prevent unnecessary shine and guarantee greater makeup adherence.

By choosing the right standalone sunscreen and applying it accurately, you can successfully protect your skin and prolong a flawless makeup look all day.

 

Foundations and Tinted moisturizers

Choose a foundation or tinted moisturizer that is lightweight, includes SPF, and is buildable.

During the hot summer months, you’ll want to use formulas that are breathable but give you the coverage you need, along with protection from the sun. Here are some recommendations:

Photo by Lisa Saephan

• Rare Beauty Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Sunscreen. This tinted moisturizer is nice and easy to apply with my fingers or a beauty sponge. It gives a matte finish and can be worn alone or under foundation.

Photo by Lisa Saephan

• Rare beauty Liquid Touch Brightening Concealer matches my skin perfectly and gives great coverage. I know we didn’t touch too much on concealer, but this is the one I like to use when I need it.

Blush and Bronzer

Cream vs. Powder Blushes and Bronzers for a Natural Glow:

• Cream Blushes: Ideal for dry or aging skin, cream blushes blend consistently, providing a dewy, natural finish.

They are admired for their light-reflecting capabilities and ease of application. You can just use your fingertips to apply it to your cheeks. I love finger-friendly makeup.

• Powder Blushes: Great for oily or acne-prone skin, powder blushes provide longer-lasting wear and can help take charge of shine. They are less likely to vanish quickly compared to cream blushes.

 

Best Shades for Summer:

• Blush: Opt for peachy or coral tones to mimic a natural, sun-kissed flush. These shades complement a variety of skin tones and enhance the warmth of summer.

I like the:

Photo by Lisa Saephan

LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Multitasking Eye Lip Cheek Palette Cream to Powder Trio in nudes. It is soft and so easy to use. When I am in a hurry and want some quick color on my cheeks and eyelids, it’s my go-to palette.

• Bronzer: Choose shades that are one to two shades darker than your skin color to add warmth without looking too tanned.

 

Eye Makeup

Waterproof Mascara, Smear-Proof Liners, and Summer-themed Eyeshadow Palettes:

• Waterproof Mascara is critical to avoid smearing due to sweat or humidity. Be on the lookout for formulas that offer volume and length without flaking or clumping.

• Smear-Proof Eyeliners: Gel or liquid eyeliners with long-wear formulas ensure your eye makeup stays untouched all day long.

• Eyeshadow Palettes: Enjoy all the summer feels with palettes promoting warm neutrals, golds, and bronze shades to enhance your natural radiance.

Lips

Glosses, Hydrating Lip Tints, and SPF Formulated Lip Balms:

• Lip Glosses add shine and dimension to lips; choose a non-sticky formula that offers hydration. I will opt for a light, shimmery lip gloss for a touch of shimmer and to add something on my lips without having to take out the mirror and lipstick.

• Lip Tints provide a sheerness of color with a lightweight feel, perfect for a natural summer look.

SPF Formulated Lip Balms help protect your lips from harmful UV rays and keep them moisturized. Look for lip balms with a minimum of SPF 15. I cannot live without lip balms, so I never leave home without them.

 

Setting Sprays and Powders

Mattifying and Setting Options to Lock the Look:

• Setting Sprays: Choose a spray that offers a matte finish to help control oil and extend the life of your makeup.

• Setting Powders are lightweight; translucent powders can help set your makeup without adding heaviness, reduce shine, and prevent creasing.

These are the setting sprays and powders I like:

Photo by Lisa Saephan

Rare Beauty Always an Optimist Soft Radiance Setting Powder. It’s a wonderful setting powder, and it comes in different shades. A little goes a long way with this one. Does not require too much, and it’s perfect to set your summer makeup. 

Photo by Lisa Saephan

Rare Beauty Always an Optimist 4-In-1 Mist is great and lasts all day and sometimes all night. I use it on top at the end of my makeup routine.

Photo by Lisa Saephan

 

e.l.f. Perfect Finish HD Powder

Nice and requires very little use to keep my makeup last all day. Great price too.

When you select products that are tailored for warm environments, you can accomplish a fresh, long-lasting makeup look that defies heat and humidity.

I think that primers, setting sprays, and/or setting powders are such an ingenious invention. I use them all the time and have them all for different circumstances and weather conditions.

Related: 20 Best Cleansers for Sensitive Skin: Approved Options with Gentle Formulas

 

Step-by-Step Guide to a Fresh Summer Makeup Look

To get that fresh and glowing natural summer makeup look includes a combination of a proper skin care routine and the use of lightweight, reliable products.

Follow the step-by-step guide below to help you accomplish a radiant look that holds up to the summer heat:

• Prep and Prime: Starting with Skincare and Primer

– As always, start with a clean face for a smooth surface. When you cleanse your face, you get rid of any oils, dirt, or impurities that might create obstacles otherwise.

– Next, you’ll want to make sure you moisturize with your favorite hydrating and lightweight moisturizer to avoid excess oils.

– Sunscreen for protection from sun damage. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30. Allow it to absorb fully before going to the next step.

– Once the sunscreen has absorbed fully, apply a mattifying primer to help control oils and create a smooth canvas for your makeup.

This step also helps to extend the longevity of your makeup throughout the day. 

 

• Lightweight Base: Applying a Breathable Foundation or Tinted Moisturizer

– Foundation/Tinted Moisturizer:

Go for a lightweight, breathable foundation or tinted moisturizer that evens out your skin tone without the heavy feel. 

– Concealer:

Apply a lightweight concealer to areas that require more coverage, such as under the eyes or if you have any blemishes. Blend to smooth out concealer for a natural, seamless look.

– Setting Powder:

Lightly dust a translucent setting powder over your face to set your base and to help control shine. Focus on areas likely to be more oily.

 

• Natural Glow: Using Cream Blush and Bronzer for a Sun-Kissed Finish

– Bronzer:

Apply a bronzer to the depression of your cheeks, temples, and jawline to add warmth and dimension. Pick a shade that enhances your skin tone for a natural sun-kissed result.

– Blush:

Use a cream blush on the apples of your cheeks for a natural, dewy finish. Cream formulas blend well into the skin, providing for a natural flush that lasts longer in warmer weather.

– Highlighter (Optional):

For an additional glow, put a subtle highlighter on the high points of your face, such as the cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and cupid’s bow.​

 

• Subtle Eyes: Waterproof Mascara, Light Eyeshadow, and Defined Brows

– Eyeshadow:

Choose a neutral, light shade to brighten your eyes. A washed-out champagne or soft gold shade can add a subtle shimmer that’s just perfect for summer.

– Eyeliner:

If you’d like, add a thin line of waterproof eyeliner close to the lash line to define your eyes without risking smudging.

– Mascara:

A waterproof mascara helps to prevent smudging or smearing and helps your lashes stay lifted and defined all day.

– Brows:

Brush your eyebrows and fill in any sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder that matches your natural brow color. To set them in place, use a clear or tinted brow gel.​

 

• Hydrated Lips: Finishing with a Glossy or Tinted Balm

– Lip Color:

Choose a hydrating lip tint or gloss in a shade that complements your natural lip color. 

– Lip Balm with SPF:

Protect your lips from harmful UV rays by applying a lip balm that has SPF. This will guarantee they remain moisturized and shielded from sun exposure.

 

• Set and Protect: Using Setting Spray and Powder for All-Day Wear

– Setting Spray:

Finalize your makeup routine with a setting spray to help hold in your look for a fresh, dewy finish.

– Touch-Up Powder:

Carry a compact translucent powder for quick touch-ups throughout the day and to combat any shine to keep your makeup looking fresh.

 

If you follow these steps and choose products suited for summer conditions, you can achieve a natural, long-lasting makeup look that embraces your natural beauty and can withstand the obstacles of the heat and humidity.

 

Tips for Long-Lasting Summer Makeup

Executing a long-lasting makeup during the summer months calls for a calculated application technique and the proper products to combat heat and humidity. Here are some expert tips to help your makeup stay fresh all day long:​

• Layering Lightweight Products: How to Avoid Caking

Choose A Lightweight Formulated liquid foundation over a cream-based one, since they will hold up better in hot and humid weather. Adding foundation in light layers and building coverage where needed can help prevent a heavy and cakey appearance.

Use a Damp Sponge for Application: Applying foundation with a damp makeup sponge, like a Beautyblender, will guarantee a seamless, fresh finish and help avoid caking. Spot-treat areas that need extra coverage for an even complexion without overdoing it.

Blotting Papers and Touch-Ups: Quick Fixes for Shiny Moments. Blotting Papers for managing excess oil and shine throughout the day. Gently press them onto the skin to absorb oils without disturbing your makeup. This helps to maintain a fresh appearance.​

Minimal Powder Application: After blotting, apply a light dusting of translucent setting powder to areas likely to shine. This helps control oils without adding heaviness to your makeup.

 

• Sweat-Proof Techniques: Hacks for Staying Fresh in Humid Weather

Start with Primer:

Primer produces a smooth base and increases makeup longevity. For combination skin, use a mattifying, oil-free primer on the T-zone and a hydrating primer on other areas will successfully control oil and preserve balance.

Set Makeup with Powder and Spray:

Lock in your makeup by lightly dusting setting powder over foundation, and follow with a setting spray. This combination will seal your makeup, making it more sweat and humidity-proof. ​

Use Waterproof and Long-Wearing Products:

Incorporating waterproof and long-wearing formulas, especially when it comes to eye makeup, will prevent smudging and fading in humid conditions.​

 

When you implement these techniques and select proper products, you can maintain a fresh and long-lasting makeup look, even during the hottest of summer days.

Related: 8 Best Facial Cleansers for Oily Skin with Ingredients to Look For and Avoid

 

Summer Makeup Trends for 2025

Photo by Lisa Saephan

As the summer of 2025 approaches, the cosmetic industry is expecting trends focusing on natural beauty, vibrant pops of color, and sustainable products.

Here are some essential makeup trends to be on the lookout for.

Photo by @leah_buckholz on IG

Photo by @francis_atutubo on IG

The “glass skin” trend, identified by a radiant and natural “no-makeup” makeup look, is expected to stay relevant.

To get this look, it’s recommended to focus on skincare to get a hydrated and smooth base. It is then accompanied by lightweight makeup products that boost the skin’s natural glow.

Genevieve Turley, a bridal makeup artist, focuses on the importance of hydrating skincare and suggests products like Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint for its lightweight formula and skin-strengthening benefits.

I prefer this dewy look for summer myself, I don’t like to have too much on my face, especially in the summertime.

 

Bold Color Accents: Pops of Color for Eyes or Lips

Photo by Lisa Saephan

This summer, makeup experts are predicting bold shades to make stunning statements. Berry tones, including burgundy eyeliner and berry lipstick, are starting to gain popularity.

These colors give a richer, deeper feel and look to lids, lips, and cheeks. In addition, bright eyeshadows and eyeliners are making a huge comeback, making room for creative and colorful eye makeup styles.

When I want a pop of color, I usually go for a strikingly bright eyeliner or a pop of color in the inner corner of my eyelids.

Related: How To Easily Start Your Makeup Journey: Makeup for Beginners

 

Sustainable Makeup: Eco-Friendly and Refillable Options

Photo by @aleph.beauty on IG

Sustainability has continued to be a critical focus in the cosmetic industry, with brands introducing eco-friendly and refillable makeup options.

Shoppers are seeking products that not only amplify their beauty but also help minimize environmental effects.

New brands and products leading this trend are frequently surfacing with a priority on reducing waste and encouraging responsible usage.​ Check out Aleph.

Beauty on Instagram if you’re interested in sustainable cosmetics. They have a great selection. 

These trends reflect a shift towards accepting creativity, individuality, and environmental awareness in beauty routines.

When these factors are integrated, you can accomplish a fresh and modern look that aligns with summer vibes and the impact it makes on the environment.

 

Final Thoughts

Pulling off a flawless summer look is about working with the season, instead of against it.

When you choose the right products and know-how, you can be confident that your makeup is fresh, radiant, and long-lasting—even in the heat of summer.

Just remember that one, preparation is Key for a solid skincare routine that hydrates, along with SPF, sets the stage for pristine makeup.

Two, lightweight and breathable products let your skin breathe while offering longevity and sun protection.

Three, sweat-proof techniques like layering products deliberately, using blotting papers for touch-ups, and finishing with a setting spray to lock the look.

And finally, you can be trendy yet practical. Whether you’ve adapted the dewy trend, adding bold pops of color, or choosing sustainable beauty, summer makeup can be both stylish and practical.

Tag! You’re it! We hope you try out these tips and product recommendations to create your optimal summer makeup look.

Have a go-to summer beauty hack or product that you can’t live without? Share your thoughts or hack in the comments!

Don’t forget to explore our related posts for more expert beauty insights. 

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