10 sweat-proof makeup products you can actually wear to the gym

While wearing makeup to the gym is in no way a necessity (especially with that radiant post-exercise glow on the cards), sometimes adding a pop of blush or a slick of mascara can help motivate you to get your game on. And why not, if it makes you feel more confident in the process, then we say go for it! So long as you’re wearing the *right* kind of makeup – we’re talking skin-friendly formulas that are non-comedogenic (i.e. won’t clog your pores), breathable and long-lasting. 

And since the ‘athleisure’ life has pretty much engulfed everyone, you’re going to bet makeup is evolving right alongside the trend. There’s now a whole load of new products out there that can outlive a sweat session without running off your face or making your skin freak out – whether you’re slogging it out in a HIIT class, absolutely owning a boxercise session, or dripping in sweat at Bikram Yoga.

From a breathable foundation to a waterproof mascara and a brow product that is impervious to sweat, these staples belong in your gym bag. 

The mascara

Forget mascaras that run halfway down your face within, like, 10 minutes. Eyeko London Sport Waterproof Mascara is *made* to be worn while exercising. Unlike other waterproof mascaras that can leave lashes feeling crunchy and gross, Eyeko’s formula is super nourishing and works to condition the lashes while keeping them plump and curled.

The concealer

Popular opinion: IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye is one of the hardest working concealers on the block. It’s a true all-rounder in our books – it’s dewy, not greasy, non-creasy (meaning it won’t slip and settle in your fine lines), and it actually stays where you put it. The added hyaluronic acid also gives your skin a nice little kick of hydration, because everyone needs some of that action.

The foundation

A heavy-duty foundation and exercise are usually not a good time, especially for acne-prone skin. So, what is one to do when they need a bit of coverage during their workout, but don’t want to block every single pore on their face? Oxygenetix Breathable Foundation is your guy. It’s formulated with Ceravitae, which works to supply skin cells with oxygen to prevent clogged pores (read: it actually lets your skin breathe). It also has SPF 25, which is a MUST, even if you’re not exercising outdoors.

If you’re more of a powder kind of gal, Laura Mercier’s Mineral Powder should be your go-to for exercising/always. It’s oil-free and non-comedogenic (pretty much the best of both worlds), meaning you can sweat it out without having to worry about a glorious cluster of breakouts rearing their ugly heads.

The brow definer

You know the feels when you finish working out and look in the mirror to find your brows have gone completely AWOL? Yeah, it sucks. For this, you need a long-lasting solution like MAC Pro Longwear Waterproof Brow Set. It’s a non-greasy, pigmented formula that’ll softly set hairs for up to eight hours. And it actually lives up to its claim – it’s sweat-proof and waterproof, keeping your brows defined and in shape no matter what your workout throws at it.

The cheek stain

Clinque has a whole range of sweat-proof makeup that’ll keep you looking fresh during exercise. One of our faves is CliniqueFIT Lip + Cheek Flush. If you are *too* excited for that post-workout glow, this oil-free, sweat-resistant formula will add a healthy-looking touch of colour to your cheeks and lips, without messing with your skin or slipping right off your face.

The bronzer

Feeling a lil pale? If you want to add a bit of bronzer to the equation, opt for something like Tarte Cosmetics Amazonian Clay Matte Waterproof Bronzer because it’s waterproof, sweat-proof and gives you a magnificent natural glow that’ll make you look like you’re actually alive at that 5:30am spin class.

Struggling with post-gym breakouts? A dermatologist shares some easy steps you can follow during and after a gym session to ensure you keep your complexion clear.

Have you tried any of these sweat-proof makeup products? Or do you have any others to add? Let us know in the comment section below.

Main image credit: @adrianalima