Waterproof foundation is a blessing on hot, sticky summer days, but is it necessary all the time?
Waterproof foundation is a blessing on hot, sticky summer days, but is it necessary all the time? As is the case with all cosmetics, the answer depends on you, your skin, and your preferences.
Who Benefits Most From Waterproof Foundation
A waterproof foundation formula is ideal for you if you:
If none of these statements describes your lifestyle or environment, a waterproof foundation probably isn't a daily necessity. But If your skin is flawless and well-balanced, go right ahead and use whatever foundation works best for you.
Acne-prone skin benefits from a lighter makeup that’s easier to remove and leaves no residue behind after cleansing. Waterproof formulas often contain loads of pore-clogging silicones that can aggravate acne-prone skin, which is all the more reason to steer clear of such formulas unless absolutely necessary.
Removing Waterproof Foundation
If you do use waterproof foundation daily, you need an appropriate makeup remover. Your regular skin cleanser won’t remove residue and will leave you susceptible to breakouts.
An oil-based remover will break up your makeup the most effectively. But don’t worry about putting oil on your face; oils in makeup removers aren't left on the skin for very long. Regardless of your skin type, you always need to follow with your normal cleanser once the foundation is removed.
Trying to use your regular cleanser to remove waterproof makeup is problematic for your wallet and face for reasons you wouldn’t immediately expect. You'll need to use a ton of cleanser, meaning you’ll run out sooner.
Additionally, using more detergents than necessary on the skin can be super-drying and damaging. Overall, an oil-based makeup remover is best.
If you choose to wear a waterproof foundation daily, that’s quite all right! Remove your makeup carefully each night, and you’ll be all set to rock your waterproof look on a clear complexion.
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Start With a Primer
Setting your base with a strong primer will set you up for staying success throughout the day. A primer will not only help your makeup go on smoother, but it will also help your products last longer, as it acts as a protective layer to prevent foundation, concealer, blush, bronzer, and highlighter from absorbing into the skin too much.
"Primer is so personal for whatever skin type I am addressing," says makeup artist Paige Pelfrey. "Makeup Forever makes a huge range of primers that are incredible and can be completely customizable to your needs—whether you're in need of color correcting redness or filling in pores, they have one for all skin types."
When Pelfrey is working on a client with no major skin concerns—just looking for a glowy boost—her go-to is the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter ($49; sephora.com). "It's incredible on its own, mixed into foundation, or even as a highlight," explains Pelfrey.
For makeup artist and skincare expert Molly Thompson-Tubridy, her favorite primers are from Urban Decay and NYX. "Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Glow Face Primer ($38; sephora.com) is my go-to for when I want a long-lasting look, especially when I know I'll be facing the elements of weather/heat," she says. "It works with all skin types, and a little goes a long way—the gel consistency and hyaluronic acid helps cool and hydrate the face."
Thompson-Tubridy's other primer of choice is NYX High Glass Face Primer ($17; nyx.com), because it's less expensive and creates a long-lasting effect. "However, it's more for dewy 'glass skin' looks, so I wear it on a day where I want a natural glow."