Makeup Routine To Survive Rainy Days
Rainy days: they’re cozy, romantic, and sometimes a little inconvenient when it comes to keeping your makeup intact. We’ve all been there—stepping out with a flawless beat, only to find our eyeliner running for its life by the time we hit our destination. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered (literally) with a foolproof rainy-day makeup routine.
So whether you’re caught in a drizzle or braving a full-on monsoon, here are the best tips, tricks, and products to ensure your makeup stays put while looking fresh and fabulous. Let’s dive in (pun intended)!
Rainy Day Makeup Routine: TL;DR
Prep: Hydrate and prime for a smooth, long-lasting base.
Base: Stick to lightweight, waterproof formulas for foundation and concealer.
Eyes: Waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and cream shadows are your go-tos.
Cheeks: Opt for cream blushes for a natural, rainproof glow.
Set: Lock everything in with powder and setting spray.
Lips: Choose long-lasting liquid lipsticks or tinted balms.
Step 1: Prep Like a Pro
It’s no secret that good makeup starts with great prep. And on rainy days, this step is absolutely essential. Think of your skin as the canvas—you want it smooth, hydrated, and ready to lock in everything you put on top.
Start with a lightweight moisturizer. Choose something non-greasy and fast-absorbing, like Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel ($17 on Amazon) or e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream ($13 on Amazon) (a viral favorite for good reason). These formulas hydrate without feeling heavy, which is crucial for layering.
Prime for your life. A solid primer can be the difference between a rainproof look and a hot (wet) mess. Enter: e.l.f. Power Grip Primer ($10 on Amazon), the cult-favorite TikTok sensation. It grips your foundation like Velcro, ensuring it stays in place through humidity and light splashes.
Step 2: Keep the Base Minimal
Rainy days call for a less-is-more approach to foundation. Heavy formulas tend to slide around when they meet moisture, so opt for lightweight, long-wear products that blend seamlessly into your skin.
Try a tinted moisturizer or BB cream. Products like IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream ($47 on Amazon) or NYX Bare With Me Tinted Skin Veil ($20 on Amazon) are perfect for providing coverage without feeling cakey. If you’re a ride-or-die full-coverage fan, go for something waterproof, like Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation ($52 on Amazon).
Don’t forget concealer. For a rainy day, a long-lasting formula is key. We’re obsessed with Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer ($8 on Amazon) for its lightweight texture and serious staying power.
Step 3: Waterproof Everything
When rain is in the forecast, your makeup’s worst enemy is water. Combat it by making waterproof your mantra for the day. From eyes to lips, choose products that won’t budge.
Eyes:
Mascara: Rain + mascara = panda eyes (not the cute kind). Swap your regular formula for a waterproof one, like Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara ($29 on Amazon) or Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara ($10 on Amazon).
Eyeliner: If you’re a liner enthusiast, go for a gel or liquid formula designed to stay put. The Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner ($24 on Amazon) is a crowd-pleaser that delivers sharp, smudge-proof lines.
Eyeshadow: Cream or liquid eyeshadows are your BFF on rainy days. They’re less likely to crease or smudge compared to powders. Check out the e.l.f. No Budge Cream Shadow Stick ($5 on Amazon) for an easy, one-swipe application.
Brows:
Your brows frame your face, so keep them looking snatched with a waterproof brow gel like Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Gel ($20 on Amazon).
Cheeks:
Rainy days and powder blushes don’t mix well. Instead, opt for cream or liquid formulas that melt into your skin and stay put. Rare Beauty’s Soft Pinch Liquid Blush ($24 on Amazon) is perfect for that fresh, dewy finish.
Step 4: Set It and Forget It
Setting your makeup is non-negotiable on a rainy day. A good setting powder and spray will lock everything in place and create a barrier against moisture.
Use a translucent setting powder. Focus on your T-zone and any areas prone to shine. Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder ($52 on Amazon) is an OG favorite for a reason—it’s lightweight, blurring, and keeps oil at bay.
Seal the deal with a setting spray. A spritz of Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray ($47 on Amazon) or Milani Make It Last Setting Spray ($10 on Amazon) will keep your makeup intact through any weather.
Step 5: Lips That Won’t Quit
A rainy day lip is all about balance—you want something long-lasting but not drying. Avoid glossy formulas that can smear and instead go for:
Liquid lipsticks: Products like Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink ($9 on Amazon) are unbeatable for their longevity.
Tinted balms: If you prefer a softer look, try Dior Addict Lip Glow ($37 on Amazon) or e.l.f. Hydrating Core Lip Shine ($7 on Amazon) for a pop of color that stays put.
Bonus Tips
Keep blotting papers handy. They’re a lifesaver for absorbing excess moisture and oil without disturbing your makeup.
Use a beauty sponge for touch-ups. A damp sponge can help blend out any smudges or streaks caused by rain.
Carry a mini umbrella in your bag. Protecting your face from direct raindrops is half the battle!
Final Thoughts
Rain doesn’t have to ruin your makeup vibes. With the right products and techniques, you can step out looking flawless no matter the weather. So go ahead, embrace the drizzle, and let your makeup shine (but not in the oily way).