Choose the Right Foundation
For a flawless poolside makeup base, opt for a water-resistant foundation. Silicone-based foundations are ideal because they offer a durable layer resistant to sweat and water and also help in smoothing out the skin. If you prefer lighter coverage, a tinted moisturizer or BB cream specifically formulated to be water-resistant is a great alternative.
Master the Art of Contour and Highlight
To accentuate your features under the bright sun, use a cream contour stick. Cream contours blend easily and resist melting away. Highlight the high points of your face, such as your cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and the brow bones using a liquid highlighter for a dewy, sun-kissed glow.
Enhance Eyes with Waterproof Products
Swimming or sweating can cause your eye makeup to smear. Using waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow can keep your look intact. Opt for neutral, earth-toned eyeshadows or go bold with bright, tropical colors. Cream eyeshadows are preferable as they tend to stick longer and won’t crease on oily eyelids.
Define Your Brows
Brows frame your face and can be particularly expressive when you’re wearing minimal makeup elsewhere. A waterproof brow gel is a perfect product for a poolside setting as it holds the hairs in place and fills in any sparse areas, ensuring your brows look perfect throughout the day.
Opt for Cream Blush
Powder products can appear cakey and are more prone to sliding off on a hot day. A cream blush can be patted onto the cheeks for a natural flush that is more likely to stay put. Peach and rosy pinks mimic a natural sun-touched look, enhancing your tan and adding a healthy radiance.
Choose Long-Lasting Lip Colors
For lips that last, apply a lip stain or a waterproof lip liner as a base. You can add a layer of waterproof lipstick if desired. Peach, coral, and soft pink look stunning for a day by the water, making your lips pop, but not overwhelmingly so. Finish with a swipe of clear gloss for added protection and a bit of glam.
Use a Setting Spray
A makeup setting spray designed for outdoor or sports use can help everything stay in place longer. Look for sprays with SPF to add an extra layer of sun protection. Holding your makeup in place, a good setting spray prevents it from melting away or transferring onto your clothes or swimsuit.
Prep and Prime Skin The Correct Way
Proper skin preparation is crucial. Use an oil-free moisturizer to hydrate your skin and then apply a primer. This helps minimize pores and creates a smoother canvas for your makeup application, ensuring longevity even in high humidity.
Apply Sunscreen Under Makeup
Never forget to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which are much stronger by the pool. Use an oil-free, broad-spectrum sunscreen under your makeup. Some foundations and primers contain SPF, but it’s usually not enough for long-term exposure. Reapply every two hours or immediately after a swim.
Think Practical & Minimal
Enhance your natural beauty rather than covering it up. A minimal makeup look not only resonates well with the casual poolside vibe but is also practical. Too much makeup can feel heavy and uncomfortable in the heat. Stick to the essentials and focus on products that serve more than one purpose; for example, a tinted moisturizer with SPF.
Stay Consistent with Touch-ups
Even the best waterproof makeup may need a little touch-up after a few dives. Keep a few essentials like blotting papers, extra sunscreen, and your lip color in your pool bag for quick fixes.
These tips will ensure that your poolside makeup is both glamorous and durable, allowing you to look your best while you soak up the sun, swim, and enjoy your time by the water.
