We Asked One Of Australia’s Top MUA’s How To Summer-Proof Your Makeup
Humidity heroes
Blotchy foundation, smudged mascara, and the dreaded SUL (sweaty upper lip) — we’ve all been there. Whether it’s a sun-scorched outdoor event or just surviving the office-to-street heatwave, your makeup is usually fighting a losing battle. So, how do the pros keep it flawless?
We asked one of Australia’s most sought-after makeup artists, Tanielle Jai, to spill her top tips for summer-proofing your look.
Who is Tanielle Jai?
Tanielle Jai is one of Australia’s top makeup artists, known for bronzy glows, smoky eyes, and effortless, pro-level finishes. With 16+ years in the industry, she’s worked with top brands and faces, hosted nationwide workshops, and now freelances full-time — plus she’s launched her own product line. Who better to ask than a homegrown industry pro?
Keep it light
For Tanielle, the key to heat-proof makeup is layering lightly. One-layer makeup is everything in summer — the less you pile on, the better it will wear throughout the day.
The base
She starts with a lightweight skin tint, like Chanel Water Tint. It evens out the skin while feeling fresh and cooling thanks to its water-based formula. It hydrates without looking greasy or overly luminous — because in summer, your skin’s natural oils and sweat already create enough glow. Hydration, not shine, is the goal.
Cream supremacy
Cream-based products are a must in the heat. Tanielle keeps powder to a minimum, only lightly setting areas like the nose, chin, and forehead. Cream formulas tend to be more water-resistant, so they wear better in heat. Her cream bronzer, the Tanielle Jai Bronzour, lets sweat bead off the skin rather than disrupting your makeup.
Set strategically
Rather than powdering the entire face, focus on targeted areas to control shine while keeping the skin looking fresh and natural. Tanielle recommends her favourite setting powder, the Givenchy Pressed Powder.
Lips that last
For lips, Tanielle loves lip tints or long-wear liners. Lip tints, like Huda Lip Stains, stain the lips so colour lasts even as it fades, while long-wear liners keep lips defined through heat, drinks, and long days. She also recommends her own Tanielle Jai Stayliner, launching in March 2026.
Lock it in
A good setting spray is essential to melt everything together and extend wear. Tanielle’s go-tos include L’Oréal Paris Infallible Setting Spray and One/Size Setting Spray.
Touch-ups on the go
When refreshing your makeup, avoid adding extra product. Gently blot away excess oil, then spritz with a hydrating setting spray. Press makeup back into place with a sponge or powder puff to melt it into the skin. Creasing is natural — the goal is just to refresh and rehydrate for a polished finish.
And there you have it — your foolproof guide to summer-ready, sweat-proof makeup. Stay fresh, radiant, and effortless all day, no matter how high the humidity climbs.
Imagery: @taniellejaimua
