How can African women do makeup in hot temperatures without it looking smeared?
Many African women don’t take into account the humidity of the weather when doing their makeup. The result is that they sweat, and their makeup starts to look appalling.
In many African countries, by merely stepping out of your house, you are already sweating, not to mention dancing at a party or walking under the sun.
1. Use cream, not powdered products
Choose cream over powder products. Cream-based products are ideal for humid weather as they blend into the skin, preventing cake or streaking even during sweating. They are suitable for foundation, concealer, blush, and eyeshadow, as they do not cake or meltdown.
2. Stay off highlighting
When the weather is hot, drop your highlighter at home and don’t put it on your face. Using a powder highlighter can give you two different complexions when you start to sweat.
3. Wash your face with cold water and moisturise your skin
To ensure the longevity of your makeup, start by washing your face with cold water to remove excess oil and freshness. Pat your face dry and apply a light moisturising gel or lotion. Blot away any extra sebum or moisturiser.
4. Use primer
Use a primer as a base to smooth your skin texture and create an even surface for your foundation. This keeps makeup in place and fills in pores.
5. Use a light foundation
In humid climates, use a light foundation layer after applying moisturiser and primer, dabbing it in instead of rubbing it in. This will help your makeup look more natural and maintain its effectiveness.
6. Use setting spray
Setting sprays are essential for setting makeup and providing instant hydration to the skin. They should be applied at arm’s length and spread evenly over the face. Allow the spray to dry for a few seconds.
7. Avoid compact powder; use translucent powder instead
Translucent fixing powder is a great alternative to compact powder. It is colourless, absorbs oil, mattifies the skin, provides sheer coverage, and makes skin glow. The silky texture glides on the skin, absorbing all the oil and mattifying it instantly.
8. Avoid using tissues, wipes, or handkerchiefs to clean up your sweat
When you sweat, don’t leave it on your face, or use tissue or handkerchiefs to wipe it off. Instead go along with blotting papers or oil-absorbing strips for a soft, sweat-free appearance. Pat your face with blotting paper when sweat builds to maintain fresh makeup throughout the day or night.
