I Put Sweatproof Makeup to the Test—These Were the Ones That Actually Worked

Keep scrolling for the best in each category.

sweat proof makeup
Casey Clark. Photo: Casey Clark

If you're one of those people who works out with a full face at the gym (hey, no judgment), sweat-proof makeup is essential. And even if you put on makeup after your workout, you want to know that your hard work will stay intact in this sweltering heat. To help you get through this season of high temperatures, humidity, and sun, I decided to put some makeup products to the test to see which ones outlasted my pores.

But first, a disclaimer: Waterproof doesn't necessarily mean sweatproof. Sweatproof and waterproof can be approached with similar formulation techniques because sweat is about 99 percent water, according to Kelly Dobos, a cosmetic chemist based in Cincinnati, Ohio. "The test methods can vary, like immersing skin in a whirlpool for water resistance or using a sauna for sweatproof claims," she says. "Sebum resistance is another aspect of formulating, especially for foundation or other face makeups, as oil 'breakthrough' can occur during the day and can actually cause darkening of the pigments and powders causing the color to shift. Here we have to utilize ingredients that are not just hydrophobic, but oleophobic (oil-resistant)." So when you see a sweatproof product, you can assume that it's waterproof too.

That being said, I tried to reach for mostly products that claimed to be waterproof, which did live up to its claims of being sweat-proof and water resistant. After testing them myself, I can affirm that these products will get you through pretty much any perspiration-provoking activity. Just remember, less is more when it comes to makeup in sweaty times (leaving sweat and makeup on your skin for too long can lead to breakouts), so make sure to remove everything completely before you go to bed.

Best Sweatproof Makeup Products

01 of 09

Best Sweatproof Concealer: Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

sweatproof-makeup-Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

This full-coverage, waterproof concealer provides a natural matte finish that both brightens and conceals. We'd be remiss not to mention the skincare benefits—infused with shea butter, mango butter, and licorice root, it reduces the appearance of dark circles and wrinkles over time.

02 of 09

Best Sweatproof Foundation: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation

sweat-proof-makeup-Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation

This buildable foundation gives skin a matte finish and full coverage sans cracking and caking, thanks to its oil-free and oil-controlling formula.

03 of 09

Best Sweatproof Blush: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush

sweat-proof-makeup-Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush

Add some waterproof color to your cheeks with this blendable liquid blush from Rare Beauty (available in matte and dewy finishes!). One swipe across the cheeks provides intense pigment that won't budge until you want it to.

04 of 09

Best Sweatproof Eyeliner: BareMinerals MAXIMIST Liquid Eyeliner

sweat-proof-makeup-BareMinerals MAXIMIST Liquid Eyeliner

This waterproof and smudge-proof eyeliner uses mineral pigment to provide the deepest black line. And here's the best part: It moonlights as a lash serum—the microalgae-infused formula simultaneously nourishes lashes at the root.

05 of 09

Best Sweatproof Mascara: GrandeMASCARA Waterproof Conditioning Peptide Mascara

sweat-proof-makeup-GrandeMASCARA Waterproof Conditioning Peptide Mascara

If you're looking for volume to the max that lasts, this sweatproof mascara conditions lashes with a peptide-infused formula, while its natural wax blend promotes volume and length.

06 of 09

Best Sweatproof Lip Color: Maybelline Superstay 24 Color

sweat-proof-makeup-Maybelline Superstay 24 Color

This product claims to provide a vibrant lip color that "won't cake, dry, or flake and stays looking fresh" for up to 24 hours. The lipstick is applied in two phases. First, you apply the liquid gloss and then lock in the color with the clear lip balm found on the other side. Along with providing a vibrant color that lasts all day, the product makes your lips feel super-soft, shiny, and moisturized.

07 of 09

Best Sweatproof Eyeshadow: IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick

sweat-proof-IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick

The product is highly pigmented, so only a small amount is needed to provide a great pop of color, but it is also buildable for a more dramatic look. Just keep in mind that it dries very quickly, so you'll have to be fast when applying.

08 of 09

Best Sweatproof Setting Powder: Lawless Seal The Deal Loose Setting Powder

sweat-proof-makeup-Lawless Seal The Deal Loose Setting Powder

If you'd rather make the makeup you already own (and love) sweat-proof, check out this setting powder from Lawless. The talc-free powder's main ingredient is mica, which locks your makeup in place and helps absorb oil and shine throughout the day.

09 of 09

Best Sweatproof Brow Product: Benefit Precisely My Brow

sweat-proof-makeup-Benefit Precisely My Brow

Unlike other brow products that only come in three or four shades, this brow pencil from Benefit has 12 different color options to choose from, so it's easy to find your perfect match. The pencil has an ultra-fine tip that allows you to make small hair-like strokes that naturally blends into your eyebrows.

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