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10 best sweat-proof makeup products

Whether you're training for a marathon or pumping iron in the gym, these are the endurance-ready products that won't budge

Monday 16 April 2018 12:35 BST

(Getty iStock)

If you wear makeup during exercise, you’ll already be familiar with the battle to stop mascara from smudging and foundation from sliding off your face mid-workout. But whether you’re training for a marathon or hitting the gym, you shouldn’t have to worry about your appearance.

We put everything from eyeliners to lip balms to the test to find out which brands have the best sweat-proof versions, testing how easy they were to apply and reapply, if they lived up to the brand’s claims and how long they lasted during exercise. From running up to 20 miles in the rain and sunshine to attending sweaty exercise classes, we tried each product under extreme conditions and here are the ones that work.

Eyeko Sport Waterproof Mascara, 8ml: £19, Eyeko

If mascara is the one product you always wear, make sure you coat your lashes in Eyeko’s waterproof version when exercising. It will survive sweaty gym classes and 20-mile runs in the wind and rain (yes, we tested this), making it hard to beat. The actual mascara lengthens and lifts lashes to give a flake-free finish, while you only need one coat to achieve a natural look. It is tricky to get off with normal makeup remover though, but Eyeko’s Mascara Off Wipes will do the job, without irritating the eyes.

Elemis Hydra-Boost Serum, 30ml: £46, Elemis

It’s important to keep skin hydrated when taking on exercise challenges, whether that be an hour spin class or running a marathon. Elemis has made this simple to do with its nourishing serum that keeps skin moisturised and refreshed. Apply before and after exercise to boost your complexion and get rid of that dehydrated, post-workout redness. It may be on the more expensive side but you can use it as your daily moisturiser, too – you’ll see visible results quickly.

Smashbox Photo Finish Iconic Primer Stick: £22, Smashbox

A good primer is an easy way to keep makeup in place, whether you’re exercising or not. We found this mattifying version ideal for wearing on a run, though. It’s great for keeping sweat and shine under control, and it’s super lightweight on the skin, meaning you don’t feel like you’re clogging pores with a heavy product. Skin looks soft while makeup is easy to apply over the top, and we think it has good staying power. Match with a finishing spray for maximum hold.

Wunder2 Wunderbrow Extra Long-Lasting Eyebrow Gel: £19.95, Feel Unique

If you’re serious about getting your brows in shape, Wunder2 has created a gel that lasts for up to three days, so there’s no need to worry during a workout. Coming in five shades, we’d recommend gradually building up coverage by filling sparse spots first, as it really does stay put after application. If you want to remove it early though, use an oil-based cleanser and cotton pads to wipe away. We loved the look of our brows after use and its long-lasting capabilities are seriously impressive.

Clinique Fit Workout Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 40, 30ml: £20.50, Clinique

Clinique has a whole sweat- and humidity-proof range of makeup to keep you looking fresh during exercise. From mascara to lip and cheek flush, it covers all areas. We picked out the foundation as our favourite though because it’s great at concealing that inevitable red face. With SPF 40, you’ll also gain the protection you need when exercising outside and its lightweight consistency still allows skin to breath. We found it stayed on during a 14-mile run, although its runny consistency did make it harder to apply (you only need to use a little each time).

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner, 6ml: £14.50, Stila

A long-lasting eyeliner is an essential in the beauty world. But when it comes to exercising, you’ll need one that won’t smudge under pressure. Stila’s waterproof liquid eyeliner is the ideal solution as it’s easy to apply with its precise, slimline wand. And once on, it does not come off, proven by our 20-mile run in the rain. You’ll need to use a good makeup remover to eventually remove it, but it’s worth it if you’re looking for a super-strength liner. Available in a variety of shades.

Elizabeth Arden Lip Eight Hour Cream Intensive Lip Repair Balm, 12ml: £20, Feel Unique

Dry lips are often one of the first signs of dehydration during exercise, so if you’re looking for a helping hand, try Elizabeth Arden’s Eight Hour Cream. A small amount will keep lips nourished for hours (as promised by the name), even if you suffer from more extreme dryness. And although it’s more expensive than your average lip balm, the pot will last for months – you’ll find you need to use it less and less over time, too. It’s also the ideal size to throw in your handbag on days off.

Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray, 118ml: £24, Look Fantastic

If you don’t want to invest in new makeup, buying a good setting spray is a great way to keep things in place. We’d recommend Urban Decay’s version, which is oil- and paraben-free. Apply after you’ve completed your makeup in an “X” and “T” formation and your products will stay in place. There’s no stickiness or shine either, which other setting sprays can be prone to. We were pleased with the results after a 15-mile run, and it’s a simple way to make your current makeup sweat-proof.

Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation SPF 15, 30ml: £31, Bobbi Brown

Another foundation to consider is Bobbi Brown’s long-lasting option. It provides full coverage, glides across the skin and isn’t messy to apply. It gives a matte finish and lasts well, too – we did a 15-mile run in damp weather and were pleased to see a good level of coverage remained at the end. And with an impressive 30 shades, there’s one to suit most skin tones.

Green People Gentle Cleanse and makeup Remover, 50ml: £13, Green People

Green People produces natural and organic skincare products including this alcohol-free makeup remover, which is gentle on skin. Removing tricky waterproof products (including all mentioned in this round-up), it can be applied quickly and leaves skin feeling soft and nourished. Simply rub into your face and use damp cotton pads to wipe away makeup. It also has a pleasant floral scent that lingers on the skin.

The Verdict: Sweat-proof makeup

We love Eyeko’s Sport Waterproof Mascara because it simply doesn’t move, whatever your exercise regime. Elizabeth Arden’s lip balm is ideal for day-to-day use, while Urban Decay’s setting spray is great for those looking to sweat-proof their current makeup collection.