10 Tips for the Perfect Summer Wedding Makeup

It’s no wonder that summer is prime time for weddings, but this also means perfecting your summer wedding makeup. You’ll want to feel more beautiful than ever, but being outside in the sun all day can lead to less than ideal makeup situations. But don’t worry! We’re here to help you out with our top 10 tips to avoid melting in the sun.

Summer weddings tend to go longer than weddings in the fall and winter, and most of your stunning photos will be taken in the early evening during golden hour. So preparation for summer makeup is a vital step to looking perfect for one of the most important days of your life.

Follow our top tips for perfect summer wedding makeup to make sure that your natural glow will shine through on your special day.

1. Prep Your Skin

A perfect summer wedding makeup look starts with the base. This will ensure that your foundation lasts all day long and doesn’t make you look like an oil slick by nightfall. The first thing that you’ll want to do is to make sure that your skin is well prepared prior to applying any makeup. You’ll want to use a gentle exfoliator to remove any dead skin cells from the surface of your face. This will help prevent blemishes and make it easier for the foundation or tinted moisturizer to be applied later on. Also, make sure you select the right moisturizer. For instance, if you have oily skin, your moisturizer needs to be oil-free. For dry skin, choose a hydrating one, and for sensitive skin, go for a gentle one without any scent. Definitely include an SPF in your routine too!

2. Stay Inside

To make sure that your beautiful make up doesn’t get affected too quickly by the humidity and heat, try to stay inside for as long as possible before the ceremony starts. It’s useful to keep a small fan nearby to keep everything in place. Careful not to apply your makeup too early either. It’s important to practice your beauty prep routine before the big day, so that you can plan your timing perfectly!

bridal makeup tips
Photography: Julia Bartlet | Hair & Makeup: Alla Lemax

3. Use Waterproof Makeup

Waterproof makeup is essential for any wedding! Most brides will shed a tear or two during the ceremony and beautiful speeches. But it’s even more important in summer to avoid any smudges and make sure your makeup lasts longer. If you’re using liquid foundation rather than powder, choose a formula that contains silicone or oil instead of water. These ingredients help keep makeup from running down your face in the heat.

4. Stick to a Classic Style

Choose a classic style for perfect summer wedding makeup. It helps to go for a classic eyeshadow look that will complement any dress and won’t be too hard to compete with the heat. Try to avoid heavy eye looks and glitter. A neutral palette of browns, golds and blush pink will flatter your eye color and go with any gown. Make sure to choose a lip color that suits your skin tone too. Also, use a highlighter sparingly, as it can be tricky to use in summer.

Photography: Janelle Elise

5. Pick the Right Foundation

Make sure you pick the right foundation for your skin, especially when it comes to the summer months. Avoid a foundation with sunscreen to avoid flashback effect in photos. Some brides might even skip foundation altogether! Use a tinted moisturizer or BB cream instead of heavy foundation in order to get an even skin tone without looking too done up. If your skin is prone to redness or acne breakouts, try using a lightweight concealer instead of foundation. For extra coverage on blemishes or dark spots, use a pressed powder over top of your tinted moisturizer or BB cream. Another tip is to try an airbrush or mineral foundation that works better with the summer elements.

6. Apply Bronzer

Adding some bronzer is the perfect way to enhance a sun kissed summer glow. Bronzer can be applied lightly across the cheekbones and down the bridge of your nose to add warmth to your complexion. It also helps to give you some definition if you’re wearing minimal eyeshadow as this will make you look less flat compared to when you don’t wear any bronzer at all.

summer wedding makeup
Photography: Sarah Falugo

7. Use a Primer & Setting Spray

A primer and setting spray is key to any summer wedding makeup. Apply primer under your foundation so that it has something to stick to. This will help keep everything in place throughout the day. Then apply your normal foundation routine (including concealer) as usual. After you’ve finished, set it with powder. This will help prevent any extra shine from ruining your look by adding extra oil control. Then use a setting spray to lock everything in place for longer wear and less smudging or rubbing off throughout the night!

8. Take Care with Products

If you want a perfect look, sometimes it’s worth spending a little extra to make sure that your products are long-lasting and will work in your favor. Make sure you do your research to find out which products are right for you, and the time of year. Also, don’t forget to use any new products several times before the big day!

summer wedding makeup
Photography: Kristina Gasperas

9. Have a Touch Up Kit

It’s likely that your wedding will last most of the day, and you want your makeup to last too. So prepare a touch up kit to have on hand. Including a powder compact with a mirror is essential because it will help keep everything looking fresh while also absorbing excess oil from your skin. It’s also important to pack blotting papers that will absorb excess oil without leaving any residue behind.

10. Stay Hydrated

When it comes to summer wedding makeup, it’s not just about what’s on the skin but what’s under it too. It’s about feeling confident on your big day. So it’s important to stay hydrated and well-nourished to keep your skin healthy. Dehydration can cause fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Drinking water keeps your skin looking fresh and youthful. It’s especially important on your wedding day because you’ll be under the hot lights all day long at your ceremony. You might even want to limit alcohol leading up to your special day to avoid dehydration. And be sure to get plenty of sleep the day before too!

summer wedding makeup
Photography: Kellie Scott

Make sure your summer wedding makeup stays strong and keeps you looking stunning! Head over to WedBoard for more useful advice for your special day. You’ll find more tips and inspiration including 21 Gorgeous Boho Wedding Hairstyles, 15 Stunning Wedding Dress Styles for 2022, and How To Choose A Wedding Getting Ready Location.

Featured image: Maddie Farris

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