Summer Sweat-Proof Makeup Tips for Women Over 50 (2025)

FASHION OVER 50

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Can we just be honest for a minute? Summer is wonderful—pool days, relaxing on the porch, backyard barbecues—but the second I walk outside, my makeup starts to say goodbye. I’m not kidding. One minute I’m fresh-faced and feeling good, and the next I’m wondering where my foundation went.

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to help keep my makeup from melting off my face the minute the humidity hits. So today I’m sharing all my best sweat-proof makeup tips for women over 50.

Sweat-Proof Summer Makeup Tips for Women Over 50

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If you’re ready for more skincare and beauty tips for women over 50, you’re in the right place!

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Step One: Start with Clean Skin

I always say, you wouldn’t paint over a dirty wall, right? The same goes for your face. Start fresh with a gentle cleanser in the morning to wash away any oils or residue from the night before.

Some of my favorite gentle cleansers are:

You can find my entire list of cleansers for mature skin here.

In the warmer months, I like using a lightweight moisturizer that won’t turn me into a greaseball by lunchtime. Look for oil-free or gel-based ones—they feel cool going on and won’t make your makeup slide off your face.

Wondering which ones to try this summer? Here are my picks:

And listen, I know you’ve heard this before, but I’m going to say it anyway—don’t skip the sunscreen. This one by DRMTLGY is my current favorite, but you can never go wrong with this tried-and-true option from La-Roche Posay. If you want to skip a step, you can even go with a tinted moisturizer with built-in SPF like this one from Supergoop or this one from Cerave.

Primer Is a Game Changer

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If you’re not using a primer in the summer, you are missing out. It’s like giving your makeup a seatbelt. It helps everything stay in place—foundation, blush, all of it.

There are primers at all price points, but you don’t have to spend a ton to get the benefits. This one by e.l.f. is a best-seller and it’s only $10!

If your skin leans oily (like my T-zone loves to do in July), look for a mattifying primer like this one from DHC that doesn’t suck the life out of your face.

Pick the Right Foundation

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Heavy, full-coverage foundation in the summer? That’s a hard no for me. It cakes, it creases, and it practically runs down your neck in the heat.

I like something lighter that still gives coverage but feels breathable. Use a damp makeup sponge or a good buffing brush and take your time blending. And don’t forget your neck—we want it all to match!

I have tried a LOT of foundation over the years, and here are a few go-to picks for those hot days:

Cream Products That Don’t Slip Off

Powders can look dry on mature skin, especially in the heat. That’s why I reach for cream blushes. They melt into your skin and give that pretty, fresh-from-the-beach kind of look (without needing an actual beach trip).

I also love that cream blushes don’t settle into wrinkles like powder can. Look for shades that mimic a natural flush, like soft pinks, peaches, or rosy tones. And remember, a little goes a long way – just a light sweep on the apples of your cheeks can brighten up your whole face!

I’m currently using my Merit cream blush, but here are some other great ones to try:

When it comes to bronzers, you’ve got options! You can stick with a classic cream bronzer (like this popular one from OGEE), or mix things up with bronzing drops. I know—you’re probably thinking, Tania, what in the world are bronzing drops? Don’t worry, I break it all down for you in this post.

Lock It All In

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Setting powder and setting spray are your best friends in the summer. Just don’t go overboard—no one wants to look like a powdered donut.

I like a lightweight translucent powder. You can use any of the ones on this list, but here are a few of my favorites:

Then I finish with a setting spray. Urban Decay’s All Nighter is the one I reach for most day (it really does help everything stay put), but I’ve also been using this one from MAC! Want more options? Check out my full post on setting sprays for women over 50 here!

Waterproof Eye Makeup Only, Please

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Mascara running down your cheeks is not cute, and don’t even get me started on eyeliner smudging. If you’re like me and your eyes water at the first sign of sun or wind, waterproof is the way to go.

I feel like I’ve tried hundreds of mascaras over the years. The best waterproof mascara on the market that will give you the most bang for your buck is this Lash Princess one! It’s usually around $5, and it makes my lashes look AMAZING. Here are a few other ones I’ve liked:

Same goes for eyeliner. I rarely leave the house without eyeliner and I hate looking like a raccoon, so I’ve figured out a few that work for me! If you need a good waterproof eyeliner, I recommend:

You can find a lot more waterproof eyeliner options in this post. Plus, you can also find the list of best makeup removers I’ve found to help you wipe these products off at the end of the day!

Tame Those Brows

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Our brows tend to get a little thinner as we age, and in the summer, they can disappear even faster if you’re sweating. I always fill mine in with this pencil, then set them with this tinted brow gel.

You can find more best-selling brow products that are worth a try in this post!

Lip Color That Lasts

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I love a good gloss, but not when it feels like it’s melting off my face. In the summer, it’s a good idea to look for something more low-maintenance—a tinted balm, lip stain, or a long-wearing matte. Lip liner also helps keep everything from feathering, which happens more the older we get.

I’ve been using this trio from Merit lately, and I have no desire to change it anytime soon! I start my lips usingtheir Signature Lip Linerin the color Coupe. Then, I useSignature Lip Lightweight Lipstick, a satin, extremely creamy lipstick, and finish withShade Slick Tinted Lip Oilin Pointelle for added sheen.

You can find more of my favorite lip products and colors for women over 50 here and here.

Keep a Touch-Up Kit in Your Purse

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Even the best makeup will need a little refresher if you’re out in the heat all day. I keep blotting sheets and a compact in my purse at all times. Blotting papers soak up shine without disturbing your makeup—super handy if you’re out and about.

My summer touch-up musts:

It’s not about redoing your whole face—it’s just a little zhuzh to keep everything looking fresh.

Do you have any tips or products you swear by for keeping your makeup looking fresh and sweat-proof during the summer? Make sure to share them with the gurls below!

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