5 Tips To Keep Your Makeup Flawless While You Swim

Want your glam to survive a swim? Whether you’re beach-bound or pool-party ready, here are some pro tricks to make your makeup stay put in the water—no raccoon eyes or melted foundation in sight:

1. Start with a clean, matte base
Oil is makeup’s worst enemy—especially when water gets involved. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and follow with an oil-free, mattifying moisturizer and gripping primer (like Milk Makeup Hydro Grip or e.l.f. Power Grip).

2. Choose waterproof everything
Swap your everyday formulas for waterproof or water-resistant options:

• Foundation: Use a lightweight, long-wear formula or skip it and use a waterproof concealer only where needed.
• Brows: Use a tinted brow gel or pomade labeled waterproof.
• Eyes: Opt for gel or waterproof liquid liner and tubing mascara (tubes slide off only with warm water, not pool temps).
• Lips: Go for a matte liquid lipstick or lip stain.

3. Set it like you mean it
After applying your makeup, press in a waterproof setting powder (try DermaBlend or Urban Decay’s The Velvetizer), then lock it all in with a waterproof setting spray like Urban Decay All Nighter or Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray.

4. Blot, don’t rub
If you get wet, resist the urge to wipe. Blot gently with a towel to avoid smearing or removing product.

5. Less is more
The more makeup you pile on, the more risk it has of sliding off. Focus on the features you want to highlight and use lightweight, layered formulas that won’t cake or streak.

With the right prep and products, your beachside glow-up can survive a splash—or even a full swim. —Vita Daily