how to waterproof makeup
Courtesy of @oranefergan

Summer is officially here, and with it comes heat, humidity and a whole lot of sweat. For many of us, this means our makeup is constantly melting off, leaving us looking like a hot mess. Literally. But fear not, there is a solution: waterproof makeup. Specifically formulated to resist moisture, waterproof makeup won’t budge even in the most extreme conditions. This means you can finally enjoy your summer without having to worry about your makeup running or smudging. Of course, not all waterproof products are created equal. Some are better than others at resisting water, sweat and tears, and some seriously clever creations can turn any product into a waterproof formula.

On that note, we’ve of course done the hard work for you, finding the ultimate sweat and sea-proof formulas and whizzy products that can turn any makeup into a waterproof wonder. All guaranteed to withstand a Dubai summer (or a listen of Taylor Swift‘s latest album…).

Mina Al Sheikhly Resin Waterproof Topcoat

Mina Al Sheikhly Resin
MINA AL SHEIKHLY RESIN WATERPROOF TOP COAT DHS71, SHOP NOW

We’re obsessed with all of Mina Al Sheikhly’s brow and lash-loving products, and it’s safe to say this waterproof top coat did not disappoint. Meet Resin, an innovative, game-changing 2-in-1 transparent topcoat that can be used to set brows in place and transform any mascara into a waterproof formula. “I got so many questions asking for a waterproof mascara, but I didn’t want to do a mascara that’s just waterproof. Instead, I thought, why not do a product that’s for the brows and the lashes? I wanted to work on a product that’s not available on the market, a formula that you can use on any mascara you want,” Mina revealed. Formulated with silicone resins and enriched with castor oil, it moisturises lashes and brows while creating a waterproof seal on hairs. A beach-bag beauty essential if ever we saw one.

Too Faced Born This Way 24-Hour Longwear Matte Finish Foundation

Too Faced Born This Way 24-Hour Longwear Matte Finish Foundation
TOO FACED BORN THIS WAY 24-HOUR LONGWEAR MATTE FINISH FOUNDATION DHS215, SHOP NOW

Oil-controlling? Check. Buildable? Check. Packed with skin-loving ingredients? Check. Waterproof? Double check. When it comes to the ultimate foundation to see you through summer, it doesn’t get much better than Too Faced’s soft-focused matte offering. Infused with nourishing ingredients usually reserved for skincare (hyaluronic acid, coconut water and alpine rose extracts included), it softens and hydrates skin while covering imperfections and reducing shine. Plus, it’s humidity and transfer-resistant and totally sweat and waterproof, offering long-wear coverage for a whopping 24 hours. Can you say summer saviour?

Inglot Duraline

Inglot Duraline
INGLOT DURALINE DHS85, SHOP NOW

Alternatively, you could turn to Inglot’s Duraline, a clever creation that turns any makeup product into a long-lasting, waterproof formula with just a drop. The go-to secret for makeup artists, it also intensifies the colour of powder products and is hypoallergenic. You’ll wonder how you ever did without it as temperatures continue to soar.

urban decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray

All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray
URBAN DECAY ALL NIGHTER LONG-LASTING MAKEUP SETTING SPRAY DHS175, SHOP NOW

Not only does this magic mist keep makeup in place for an impressive 16 hours, but its Temperature Control Technology also chills the surface of your skin for a cooling, refreshing boost that helps keep makeup in place whether you’re on the beach, dancefloor or just sweating your way from car to supermarket (we feel you). Formulated for all skin types and without oil or parabens, it’s cruelty-free, waterproof and locks everything from blush to foundation to concealer in place. Simply spritz onto skin after you’ve applied your makeup and you’re good to go – whether you’re braving the outdoors or taking a dip in the pool.

Make Up For Ever Aqua Seal

Make Up For Ever Aqua Seal
MAKE UP FOR EVER AQUA SEAL DHS115, SHOP NOW

Panda eyes may be cute on pandas, but on us? Not so much. This can be a bit of a problem when you’re out and about in the heat and end up with mascara halfway down your face… Enter: Make Up For Ever’s Aqua Seal – a nifty waterproof liquid converter that transforms any eye pencil or powder product into a waterproof powerhouse, all while intensifying pigments while it’s at it. It’s also alcohol-free and opthalmologist-tested, so it won’t stress out the delicate skin around your eye area. Waterproof winged liner and swim-proof smoky eyes here we come.