Start with Smart Skin Prep
The foundation of a monsoon-proof look begins before you even touch your makeup. High humidity can make skin feel greasy, so proper skin preparation is key. Start by cleansing your face thoroughly to remove any excess oil. Follow up with a lightweight,
water-based or gel moisturiser to hydrate your skin without adding extra slickness. Heavy creams can cause your makeup to slip and slide, so save those for drier days. For an extra defence against sweat, some makeup artists suggest gently rubbing an ice cube over your face for a few seconds to close up pores and reduce perspiration. Lastly, never skip sunscreen; opt for a non-greasy or matte-finish formula.
Build a Bulletproof Base
To ensure your makeup stays put, a primer is non-negotiable during the monsoon. Look for a mattifying, silicone-based primer, which creates a smooth barrier that prevents sweat and oil from breaking down your foundation. When it comes to your base, less is more. Heavy, full-coverage liquid foundations can look cakey and separate in humid conditions. Instead, opt for lightweight formulas like a BB cream, a CC cream, or a tinted moisturiser. If you need more coverage, use a waterproof, long-wear concealer just on the areas you need it, like under the eyes or on blemishes. This technique, known as spot-concealing, provides a more natural, breathable finish.
Swap Creams for Powders
While cream blushes and highlighters give a beautiful dewy finish, they are more likely to melt away in the rain and humidity. During the monsoon, it is wise to switch to powder formulas for your blush, bronzer, and highlighter. Powder products are better at absorbing excess oil and tend to last longer in sticky weather. Apply them in light layers, building up the colour gradually for a natural look. If you love a creamy texture, one trick is to apply your cream blush and then set it with a light dusting of a similar-coloured powder blush to lock it in place.
Waterproof Your Eyes and Brows
Eye makeup is often the first casualty of a downpour. To avoid the dreaded raccoon eyes, waterproof products are your best friend. Invest in a good quality waterproof mascara and eyeliner to prevent smudging and running. For eyeshadow, consider using a cream-based shadow or an eyeshadow primer. An eye primer is crucial as it prevents your shadow from creasing in the humidity. When it comes to your brows, a waterproof pencil or a tinted brow gel will help define them and keep the hairs locked in place all day long, ensuring they don't fade or smudge.
Opt for Matte, Long-Lasting Lips
Glossy and creamy lipsticks can feel sticky and are more prone to smudging in humid weather. The best choice for the monsoon season is a matte lipstick, a liquid matte formula, or a lip stain. These products are designed for longevity and are less likely to transfer or bleed. They provide a beautiful pop of colour without the need for constant touch-ups. To increase wear time even further, outline and fill in your entire lip with a lip liner before applying your lipstick. This creates a base for the colour to cling to.
Lock It All In
The final, and perhaps most crucial, step is to set your entire look. After you have finished applying your makeup, lightly dust a translucent setting powder over your T-zone and any other areas prone to oiliness. Then, finish with a generous spritz of a makeup setting spray. A good setting spray works wonders by creating a protective film over your makeup, locking it in place and providing an extra layer of defence against humidity, sweat, and rain. For on-the-go touch-ups, keep blotting papers in your bag. They allow you to absorb excess oil and shine without disturbing your makeup.
