Foundation that slips, mascara that runs, T-zone that glows even before lunch… When a heat wave hits France, keeping a clear complexion is almost a challenge. Temperatures flirt with 35°C, humidity rises, and even fans of light makeup find their base shifting over the hours. The question comes up everywhere: how to keep your makeup on despite the heatwave?
On TikTok, French makeup artist Tommy Pierre, aka @tommypierremakeup, followed by more than 500,000 subscribers, shared on May 26, 2026 a video that has become a landmark for those who melt with their bronzer. His starting rule is cash: explains Tommy Pierre, quoted by Femme Actuelle. It all starts with a lighter routine, designed for the heat.
Heatwave and makeup: why everything needs to be lightened
For the makeup artist, the number one mistake is applying too much material. Under the effect of heat, foundation and concealer mix with sebum, lodge in fine lines, then end up moving. And there, it’s impossible to get a smooth complexion without starting all over again. Hence his obsession with fine textures and ultra-light layers, always leaving a few moments for drying between two applications.
Before even talking about heatwave makeup, Tommy Pierre insists on preparation. Fluid treatments, appropriate SPF, then a simple gesture: blot the excess with a clean tissue. , he warns. In case of high heat, he also recommends a mattifying primer, or even a very light veil of powder on top on oily skin to limit shine from the start.
Long-lasting complexion: the micro-layer method
Foundation is often the first to go in the middle of the afternoon. Here again, the makeup artist focuses on lightness: , he explains. He recommends applying a small amount, spreading it in an almost imperceptible layer with a brush or finger, then strengthening only where the complexion really requires it: sides of the nose, localized redness, center of the face.
Same logic for concealer, which Tommy Pierre applies only to dark areas, in very small doses, rather than in a large triangle under the eyes. This approach limits the risk of migration with perspiration. He then recommends powdering in a targeted manner: wings of the nose, forehead, chin, possibly under the eye, always with a fine powder and tapping so as not to disturb the work of the complexion.
Powder, blush and setting spray: the anti-heatwave trio
As for color, the makeup artist avoids cream textures when the thermometer explodes. Instead, he favors blush and bronzer powder, which are more stable under 35°C. Here again, the secret lies in lightness: a little product, applied in thin successive veils, rather than thick layers that are impossible to cover if you start to sweat.
To lock everything in, Tommy Pierre never skips the setting spray. The most effective formulas contain film-forming agents which create an invisible veil preventing makeup from migrating with sweat. References like One/Size’s On ‘Til Dawn or Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray are often cited for warmth, while Make Up For Ever’s Mist & Fix Matte helps oily skin stay matte. Her pro tip: spray a little spray on a puff, load it very lightly with powder, then press on areas of shine to maintain a fresh and matte complexion, even in the middle of a heatwave.
Which setting spray to choose when it’s very hot?
In the event of a heatwave, choose a long-lasting setting spray with film-forming agents. Matte finish for oily skin, more natural finish for dry or dehydrated skin.
Should you change your foundation in summer?
Yes, switching to a more fluid texture or light coverage helps a lot. The important thing above all is to apply it in micro-layers and let it dry between each veil.
Does setting spray replace mattifying powder?
No, the two complement each other. The powder controls shine in key areas, while the setting spray especially helps to weld all of the makeup to the face.
Sources
- Beauty Test
“10 setting sprays that really prevent makeup from melting despite the heat”
