How Your Makeup Can Survive the Unpredictable Philippine Weather

Makeup artist Kim Roy Opog shares tips for keeping your makeup fresh through the heat, humidity, and sudden downpours.

If you have lived in the Philippines, you already know that the weather can be unpredictable. One minute it’s intensely hot, the next it’s pouring rain. Both extremes can be challenging, with the highest temperatures this year reaching 47°C, while August has already brought tropical depressions and typhoons.

If pollution wasn’t enough, having your makeup last in unpredictable weather is another beauty challenge. According to makeup artist Kim Roy Opog, heat and humidity are definitely the enemies of makeup wear. The high moisture in the air can mix with facial sweat and natural oils, which can cause makeup to separate, melt, crease, or smudge.

In this Q&A with Vogue Philippines, the makeup artist shares tips and tricks for long-wearing makeup.

Hydrate your skin, then mattify target areas

According to Opog, regardless of your skin type, hydration is still key. “I only recommend mattifying products on targeted areas on the face where it gets really oily; for oily skin, that could mean the whole face. “

Higher-coverage have more wear, but choose ones that feel light

In terms of formulas, higher coverage skin tints, foundations, and concealers will last longer throughout the day. “Just make sure you choose products that feel light on the skin,” he says.

Skincare, powder, and setting spray are key

You don’t have to choose between skincare, powder, or setting spray. For Opog, using the right amount of each can ensure longer wearing makeup throughout the day. “If your skin feels dry after applying powder, you’re probably doing too much.”

Blot your skin first before applying makeup

Because high moisture can mix with natural facial oils, Opog recommends removing sweat and natural oils first. “Use a blotting sheet or tissue first before retouching,” he says.

Creams and cream-to-powder formulas are your best friend

As for products, creams and cream-to-powder formulas work wonders in Philippine weather. “They’re naturally hydrophobic, last longer than liquid products, and are not as drying as powders,” he says.