Stepping outside these days can be likened to entering a furnace as the sweltering heat can leave you feeling hot, sweaty and parched. And for the ladies this can spell messy make-up — melting foundation, smeared mascara, and oily skin.

To share some ‘heat-proof’ make-up and skincare tips, Tuesday Style Dryer (TSD) recently spoke with Kingston-based make-up artist Charissa “@charissazoemua” Clemetson. Here is what Clemetson, who has had the pleasure of doing make-up for Emmy Award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, had to say.

Preparation is key

Great make-up starts with great skin, and you don’t need a complicated, 10-step routine to achieve that. These four skincare steps are the basics — cleansing, toning, moisturising and protecting. Cleansing removes excess dirt and buildup while toning restores the skin’s natural pH level, and moisturising helps to restore the skin’s hydration levels. Protecting the skin includes use of a sunscreen (even under make-up) with minimum SPF 30, daily. To minimise sweat and shine always opt for oil-free products.

PS: Drink at least 2 litres of water daily. Being hydrated helps to increase elasticity of the skin, which delays the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Dehydration can result in dry skin, flaking and rough patches, and increases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The latter will also prevent your make-up from having a flawless finish.

Don’t skip the primer

Primer is the glue that holds your make-up together, and extends the wear time. For best results use a pea-size amount and work product into skin. Let the primer absorb in the skin (drying completely) before applying your foundation.

Primers are available in different formulas — including gels, creams, and lotions — and have different finishes like matte, luminous, radiant, and natural. For hot weather it is best to use a lightweight, water-proof, sweat-proof and/or mattifying primer.

Set it and forget it

After all your hard work and effort to achieve a great make-up look, setting your make-up is definitely non-negotiable. Not only does setting seal your make-up, it can also help you achieve more of a matte finish. Use a setting powder over your foundation and concealer, focusing on the areas most prone to sweating and shine (T-zone and cheeks), then use a setting spray over the whole look when completed.

Pro tip: Use setting spray in layers by applying after each step of make-up application.

Maintain the ‘face-beat’

A simple and easy touch-up routine is a must to keep your make-up looking fresh during these hot months. Include the following in your purse while on the go — blotting paper to absorb oil/sweat, translucent powder to maintain the matte finish, lip colour to maintain brightness, and a hand-held fan to help stay cool.

TSD suggests you keep these tips handy to help you achieve effortless and flawless make-up, even during the hottest days.