Meltproof Makeup.(Buyers guide)

Byline: Brooke Le Poer Trench

Hot-weather tricks that help prevent fading.

When heat rises, makeup falls--it's that simple. Fortunately, there's an easy fix for all the slipping and sliding that happens at this time of year. Swapping the heavy foundation and powder can keep your makeup looking light and fresh. "Choose formulas that contain silicone, which prevents them from melting when your skin warms," says makeup artist Laura Mercier. "And switch to sheer creams, liquids, and gels that sink into the skin." Mercier also advises priming the skin before applying makeup: "Primers are lightweight, so you won't feel the extra layer on your skin, but you will notice that your base and blush last much longer." If you do nothing else, let common sense prevail: The less makeup you use, the less likely it is to run down your chin. "The answer is to apply thin layers," says Mercier. In other words, as you would with your clothes, do with your makeup--lighten up.

Start with clean, moisturized skin. Squeeze out a pea-size drop of oil-free makeup primer, then use your fingers to smooth a thin layer of it over your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. This will keep makeup in place.

Stand in natural light and dot an oil-free concealer on top of dark undereye circles with your ring finger. Using a tiny brush, dab a small amount of the concealer on any other areas of redness that need coverage.

Dampen a makeup sponge and wring it out. Put a couple drops of oil-free tinted moisturizer or light liquid foundation on the sponge and apply it where needed, using short outward strokes. Give it a few minutes to dry.

Once foundation has set, apply a rosy cream or gel blush to the apples of the cheeks, a sheer cream eye shadow in a neutral color to lids, and a water-resistant mascara on the top lashes only. Dab a tinted balm on the lips.