Start with Smart Skin Prep
A flawless monsoon look begins before you even touch your makeup. Start by cleansing your face to remove any dirt and excess oil. Follow this with a toner to tighten pores. The most crucial step is choosing the right moisturiser; opt for a lightweight,
water-based, or gel-based formula that hydrates without adding grease. This creates a smooth canvas for your makeup to adhere to. A helpful trick is to gently rub an ice cube over your face for a few seconds to minimise perspiration and help your makeup last longer. And don't forget sunscreen, even on cloudy days.
Prime for Longevity
Primer is non-negotiable during the rainy season. It acts as a barrier between your skin and the humidity, preventing your natural oils from breaking down your makeup. Look for a mattifying, non-oily, or silicone-based primer. This will fill in pores and fine lines, creating an even surface and giving your makeup something to grip onto, ensuring it stays intact for much longer. Let the primer set for a minute before moving on to your base.
Lighten Your Base
Heavy, full-coverage foundations are a recipe for a cakey, streaky mess in high humidity. The 'less is more' approach is your best friend during monsoon. Instead of a heavy liquid foundation, consider alternatives like a lightweight BB cream, CC cream, or a tinted moisturiser for a more natural, breathable finish. If you need more coverage, use a long-wear, oil-free concealer to spot-conceal blemishes and under-eye circles rather than applying a thick layer of product all over your face.
Choose Creams Over Powders (Mostly)
When it comes to adding colour to your cheeks, cream formulas are superior in the monsoon. Cream blushes melt into the skin for a natural, dewy flush that lasts longer in humid weather compared to powder blushes, which can sometimes look patchy. A subtle shade of pink or peach can create a soft, natural effect. However, for products like bronzer or contour, some experts suggest sticking to powder formulas as they are less likely to melt away. The key is to see what works best for your skin type and the specific look you want.
Waterproof Your Eyes
The eyes are often the first casualty of a makeup meltdown, leading to the dreaded 'raccoon eyes'. To avoid this, waterproof everything is the rule. Swap your regular kohl, eyeliner, and mascara for their waterproof counterparts. These formulas are designed to resist humidity and moisture, ensuring they don’t smudge or run. For eyeshadow, consider a cream-based formula which tends to have better staying power in damp conditions than powders. Keeping the eye makeup simple and neutral is also a wise choice.
Lock in Your Look
Once your makeup is done, there are two final steps to make it last. First, strategically apply a light dusting of translucent setting powder, focusing only on areas that tend to get oily, like your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). Avoid powdering your whole face, as too much can look heavy. The final, essential step is a makeup setting spray. A good setting spray with a matte or long-lasting finish will lock everything in place, control shine, and act as a final shield against the weather.
