Suggestions updated in 2024.
Sweat doesn’t have to be the arch nemesis of your makeup look! These drugstore makeup finds can hold their own on the hottest and longest of days. I’ve personally tested each of these products during triple-digit Las Vegas summers, as well as on trips to humid climates– most recently to New Orleans. Not only do they last, but they look good doing it.
Sweat Proof Drugstore Face Primer
The e.l.f. Power Grip Primer is the most long lasting face primer I’ve ever used, and really makes your foundation stick. It has a slightly tacky feel, gripping onto your foundation and holding it in place all day. On top of the fact that my makeup looks freshly applied hours into wearing (and sweating), this primer also keeps product from settling into my fine lines.
Best Sweat Proof Drugstore Foundations
I have two tried and true sweat proof drugstore foundation favorites that have been tested at music festivals, on vacation in humid climates, and even during intense workouts (for science!).
L’oreal infallible fresh wear foundation
A holy grail of mine for years, the Infallible Fresh Wear foundation can withstand a lot. Despite being full coverage and long wearing, it’s incredibly lightweight and breathable with a natural finish. Watch my wear test on TikTok.
Maybelline super stay 24h skin tint
This skin tint is a newer favorite of mine for fresh looking makeup through sweaty days. It gives buildable medium-full coverage with a natural skin finish, and feels best on normal to dry skin. Through sweating, it doesn’t run or get patchy. I find it works best after moisturizer, without primer. Check out my full review for before and after photos.
Best Sweat Proof Drugstore Brow Gel
physicians formula butter brazillian brow lift brow gel
I’ve tested so many brow gels, and this is my goldilocks. The Physicians Formula Butter Brazillian Brow Lift Brow Gel may be a mouthful, but it offers strong hold without making your brows look stiff or too shiny. I also don’t experience flaking with this gel, like I do with other strong hold products.
Best Sweat Proof Drugstore Eye Makeup
Eye makeup is also susceptible to melting or transferring on particularly hot day, but these won’t budge.
Milani Eyeshadow Primer
I have relatively oily lids, and the Milani Eyeshadow Primer has been my go-to since college. It helps fight creasing with a matte finish that doesn’t feel too dry on the lids.
essence Stay & Play Gel Eyeliner
The essence Stay & Play Gel Eyeliner is my favorite for both smoky liner and tightlining. It’s creamy and easy to blend, but once it sets, it won’t budge. It’s a waterproof and sweat proof eyeliner that will last all day.
Maybelline Color Tattoo Eyeshadow Stix
If you want a simple eyeshadow look that can withstand anything, grab a few of the Color Tattoo Eyeshadow Stix. They’re super easy to swipe on and blend out, even with just your fingers. These proved to be one of my best sweat proof eyeshadow options on my recent trip to New Orleans!
l’oreal voluminous panorama mascara
Even if you opt for the non-waterproof version, the L’Oreal Panorama mascara is one of the most smudge proof and sweat proof mascaras I’ve tried. It adds length, volume, and length while locking in my curl. Read more in my full review.
Best Drugstore Sweat Proof Blush
e.l.f. Camo Liquid Blush
This liquid blush from e.l.f. lasts all day without fading or becoming patchy. It’s glowy without being dewy, so you don’t have to worry about looking slick, even if you’re sweating. A little goes a long way– it’s super pigmented, and one dot will give you a ton of color to work with. Read more.
Best Drugstore Sweat Proof Setting Spray
Milani Make It Last Setting SPray
Don’t forget to lock in your makeup with a setting spray to extend the wear time of every layer. The Milani Make It Last Setting Spray helps your look last up to 16 hours, and can also be used as a prep step or a refresh if your makeup is looking a little worn throughout the day.
Sweat Proof Makeup Tips for Humidity:
- Don’t layer powder. While it may be tempting to add powder every time you see shine come through, this will start to create a cakey appearance when mixed with your sweat and other makeup. Instead, carry your setting spray with you to refresh and extend your look, or use an oil absorbing face roller.
- Use lightweight skin care. Heavy creams can cause your makeup to slip around. Use lighter products in the summer which will also feel more comfortable when underneath foundation.
- Avoid dewy finishes. Dewy makeup typically does not set all the way, always staying a bit wet. These formulas can disrupt easily when sweat starts coming through, and shine will be very noticeable very quickly.
– Miranda
