The sun is shining, temperatures creep above 30 degrees, and your carefully applied makeup slowly slides off your face. Sound familiar? You're not alone. Every summer, millions struggle with the same problem: how do you keep your look intact when the thermometer rises?
The answer doesn't lie in thicker layers of foundation or more powder. Quite the opposite. A summer-proof makeup routine is about smart product combinations, the right application order, and — surprisingly — a solid skincare base. And that's exactly where pharmacy products come in.
Why does makeup melt in summer?
Three key factors are at play:
Excess sebum production
Heat stimulates your sebaceous glands. More sebum means a shiny face and a slippery surface where makeup struggles to stay put. This isn't just an 'oily skin' issue — even dry skin types produce more sebum at higher temperatures.
Sweat
Perspiration is your body's cooling system, but it's the enemy of every foundation. Sweat droplets work their way under your makeup and literally push it off your skin.
Humidity
Belgian summers are becoming increasingly humid. That sticky air prevents products from drying properly and causes them to shift faster. Especially in cities like Brussels and Antwerp, where humidity regularly exceeds 80% in July.
Step 1: The foundation — skincare makes the difference
The biggest mistake people make with summer makeup? Starting with makeup. A good routine begins with your skin.
Cleanse thoroughly, but gently
In summer, your pores are more likely to clog from the combination of sweat, sunscreen, and makeup. Double cleansing in the evening is well worth it: first an oil or balm cleanser to remove makeup and SPF, then a water-based cleanser for a deep clean.
Hydrate, but keep it light
Don't skip hydration because it's warm. Your skin always needs moisture. But swap your rich winter cream for a lightweight gel or water-based moisturiser.
Pharmacy brands like La Roche-Posay and Vichy offer excellent options specifically formulated for combination to oily skin — light enough not to weigh you down, effective enough to keep your skin balanced.
Compare La Roche-Posay moisturisers on PharmaCompare →
Step 2: Sun protection as makeup base
Modern facial sunscreens do far more than block UV rays. The latest generation combines protection with a mattifying finish, functioning perfectly as a makeup primer.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid SPF50+ has a dry, almost powdery finish that works perfectly under makeup. No white cast, no stickiness.
Bioderma Photoderm AKN Mat SPF30 is specifically developed for acne-prone skin with built-in mattifying action.
Avène combines sun protection with calming properties — ideal if your skin reacts to heat.
Price differences are surprisingly large: the same sunscreen can vary by up to €5 between pharmacies. Comparing genuinely pays off.
Compare sunscreens on PharmaCompare →
Step 3: Summer makeup techniques
Less is more (really)
Every layer you add is a layer that can melt. In summer, a light tinted moisturiser or BB cream is often a better choice than full-coverage foundation.
The setting spray revolution
If there's one product that can save your summer routine, it's a good setting spray. Spray it on after your complete look and it creates an invisible layer that holds everything in place.
Waterproof where it counts
You don't need to choose waterproof for everything. Focus on the areas that shift first: mascara, eyeliner, and brow products. Waterproof mascara combined with a non-waterproof foundation is the perfect balance.
Step 4: Touch-ups — the art of refreshing
Blotting papers
These thin sheets absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup. Gently press on shiny zones (forehead, nose, chin).
Thermal water spray
A thermal water spray is your best friend in summer. It refreshes your makeup, hydrates your skin, and gives a natural glow. Avène, La Roche-Posay, and Vichy all have their own version, and price differences are considerable.
At Medi-Market, you'll regularly find deals on thermal water sprays. Always check PharmaCompare before ordering — a €2-3 difference per bottle adds up with daily use.
Compare thermal water sprays on PharmaCompare →
The perfect summer routine
Morning
- Gentle cleanser
- Lightweight moisturiser (gel or water-based)
- SPF 50+ face (let it absorb 2-3 minutes before makeup)
- Light foundation or tinted moisturiser
- Concealer (only where needed)
- Light powder (T-zone only)
- Waterproof mascara + brow gel
- Setting spray (two coats: before and after powder)
In your bag
- Blotting papers
- Thermal water spray
- Lip balm with SPF
Common mistakes
Using too much primer — A pea-sized amount is enough. More creates a slippery layer where makeup actually won't stay.
Counting SPF in your foundation — The SPF in your foundation (usually 15-20) isn't enough. You never apply enough foundation to achieve the stated protection. Always wear separate sunscreen.
Stacking powder on powder — Adding more powder at every touch-up leads to a cakey nightmare by end of day. Use blotting papers instead.
Skipping skincare — 'It's warm, my skin doesn't need cream.' Wrong. Dehydrated skin actually produces more sebum as compensation.
Smart shopping: online pharmacy vs. perfumery
Many think pharmacy products are 'less luxurious' than high-end brands. The reality? Brands like La Roche-Posay, Avène, Bioderma, and Vichy invest heavily in dermatological research and clinical trials. You're paying for science, not marketing.
At Belgian online pharmacies like Viata, Farmaline, and Medi-Market, these products are often 20-30% cheaper than in physical pharmacies. Combine that with PharmaCompare to always find the sharpest price.
Compare all pharmacy products on PharmaCompare →
Conclusion: invest in your base
A summer-proof makeup routine doesn't start with makeup — it starts with skincare and sun protection. Invest in good SPF, keep your routine light, and use smart touch-up techniques.
On PharmaCompare, compare prices in seconds across all licensed Belgian online pharmacies. Enjoy the sun without worrying about your budget — or your makeup.