Sweat-proof tips for humid weather from a professional makeup artist

Sarah Leung is a professional makeup artist based in Hong Kong. She offers a range of services, including creative makeup designs, face and body painting, special effect makeup, makeup tutorials, and professional makeup services through her business, Sarah Artistry. 

I met Sarah at Island Shangri-la’s Halloween Party last year and was blown away by the incredible art she created on the children’s faces. As we transition into summer, I ask Sarah for some tips on adapting my routine for the humidity ahead. 

How did you get into makeup?

I’ve always loved art and exploring various mediums like graphite, watercolour, acrylic, and oil painting. Through makeup, I found a new avenue for my creativity. Makeup is a form of fine art, a delicate craft practised on a living canvas, where each face becomes a unique masterpiece. Face and body painting are my favoured mediums, blending my passion for painting with the art of enhancing natural beauty.

Tell us about your skincare routine.

I begin with gentle cleansing and toning to balance my pH levels. I apply a serum for hydration and target specific skin concerns with treatments like retinol or vitamin C. Finally; I moisturise to lock in hydration and finish with sunscreen to shield against UV rays.

What’s in your makeup bag? 

I always carry a foundation or tinted moisturiser; my favourites are NARS Cosmetics Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser SPF30/PA+++ and MAKE UP FOR EVER Matt Velvet Tint & HD Skin Foundation. I’ll also carry concealer, setting powder, an eyebrow gel, mascara by TOM FORD and a neutral eyeshadow palette, such as TOM FORD Eye Color Quad. For blush, I use Charlotte Tilbury’s Cheek To Chic, and for my lips, I love CHANEL Le Rouge Duo Ultra Tenue Ultrawear Liquid Lip Color. I also carry makeup brushes, sponges, and URBAN DECAY’s Heavy Dose All-Nighter Makeup Setting Spray.

What’s your advice on combating the effects of humidity?

• Start with a mattifying primer and opt for an oil-free, water-resistant foundation or tinted moisturiser. Set makeup with a translucent setting powder or spray, which also helps to control shine. 
• Brands such as Urban Decay, Charlotte Tilbury, Make Up For Ever, and Benefit tend to work well in Hong Kong’s humid climate. 
• Choose eye products carefully; always opt for waterproof and long-lasting mascaras, such as those by Helena Rubinstein and Make Up Forever, and matte or long-wearing lipstick. 
• Blotting papers helps to absorb excess oil and sweat throughout the day.

What’s your favourite makeup brand? 

If I had to pick one, I’d say ‘Make Up For Ever’. It’s known for its reliability and professionalism and is an artist’s go-to choice.

What is your most important advice for men and women?

Prioritise skincare. Whether you wear makeup or not, ensuring your skin is well-moisturised and protected is essential for a healthy and radiant complexion. Moisturiser and sunscreen should always be a priority.

How can we easily take our look from day to night?

• Refresh your base makeup by blotting excess oil with a tissue and applying a light layer of setting powder to mattify your skin.
• Add depth to your eye makeup by darkening the crease, adding a darker eyeshadow shade, or applying eyeliner for a more defined look.
• Enhance your blush and bronzer for a more sculpted look. Add a touch of highlighter for a radiant glow.
• Switch to a bolder lip colour, like a vibrant red or deep berry shade, to make a statement for the evening.
• Use a brow pencil or gel to define and structure your face.
• Finish your makeup with a setting spray to ensure everything stays in place throughout the night.

Are there any trends you are excited about in 2024/25? 

I’m happy to see the rise in sustainable beauty, eco-friendly makeup products, packaging, and practices. 

Skinimalism is also on the rise, this is the concept of embracing natural beauty and minimalism to enhance the skin’s natural radiance with light coverage products and skincare-focused makeup routines. Bold eyeliners with geometric shapes, colourful lines, and exaggerated winged liners are popular this year. 

Sarah is available for group and private tutorial classes, face and body painting, special effect makeup, tutorials, and professional makeup services. You can contact her via  Instagram at @sarah__artistry.