By Hannah Powling
As Wimbledon is just around the corner we’re starting to think about the ladies on court, and of course, their beauty regimes. Naturally.
I mean, they’re on telly AND running around like crazy working up a sweat, and we are always impressed at how they manage to stay looking just as as good as their performance. How do they do it? All I need to do is walk up a flight of stairs and I look questionable…
Do these ladies even wear any makeup? If they do, which products are practical and stay in place? So here comes the big question – makeup during matches, to wear or not to wear?
There remains a lingering discrepancy between cosmetics and athletic, for practical reasons as well as aesthetic. The sweat, heat, running and wiping involved in a match is a real test for even the most waterproof and long-lasting of makeup products.
We all know that wearing makeup whilst exercising is not great for our skin as you risk blocking pores and congesting the skin that needs to sweat out. But although we are aware of this; a lot of us still reach or the odd swish of mascara or tint. So, if you are someone that really struggles to go bare-faced at the gym or on the pitch – here are some lighter and durable makeup and skincare options that won’t leave your skin suffocating or looking panda-eyed at the end of your workout!
In my research, I found there was a division among the Wimbledon ladies who like to wear makeup and those who do not – for those that do opt to play make up-free on court (as Maria Sharapova admits) – their skincare is of upmost importance.
SERUMS
A serum that suits your skin type is good to apply pre-workout, as serums are usually very lightweight and fast-acting. It’ll sink into the deeper layers of your skin and won’t just sweat off right away. A moisturiser won’t penetrate the skin as far down as a serum will, plus the oil-free factor of a serum will benefit more over a using a moisturiser.
Estée Lauder’s Dimension Expert Serum works on sculpting and defining the look of contours and also helps lift the look of cheeks and jawline – yes please! Have a read of Estee Lauder’s Revolutionary New Dimension products here.
SPF PROTECTION
If you’re playing sports outdoors, sun protection is an absolute must. It prevents long-term sun damage and pigmentation of the skin. But you need something that’s going to last too – when your skin persperates naturally the product can slide off. And the last thing you want is sunscreen going into your eyes (if you’ve ever felt it you’ll know it stings!) so look for a sun protection cream that is labelled water-resistant or sweat-resistant.
Danish tennis player Caroline Wozniacki pointed out the importance of SPF protection, as it is a staple item in her handbag; “SPF is really important to me so I always have some in my bag. You never know when you’re going to need it!”
Vichy Ideal Soleil BB Tinted Cream is water-resistant, high protection and has a light tint added too! Bonus! It is the perfect product to give you maximum protection and shielding you from sun damage – whilst providing a lightweight tint to smooth out imperfections at the same time. Ideal for men and women, it is formulated to suit dry and even sensitive skin too.
Available to buy from select stores online including Escentual, Boots, and Feel Unique
Ultrasun Sports Gel SFP20 is a clear liquid and water-resistant formula that is suitable for everyone and anyone. Delivering sun protection that is perfect for all outdoor, watersports and even gardening enthusiasts, you can ensure this won’t sweat off. It is easy to apply and formulated without oils, emulsifiers or perfume, so it is even suitable for the most sensitive of skin types. Apply once and go. Nice!
Buy now from Superdrug.
WATERPROOF MAKEUP
If you’re going to be brave and get some eye makeup on, you will need to go down the waterproof route. Just remember to always remove water-resistant products with an oil-based makeup remover for ease of removal and no violent tugging at your eyes or lashes.
Waterproof mascara is going to be your godsend. Not only does it avoid pesky smudges, smears and flakes down your cheeks, but oil-free mascara is a great lightweight option if you have straight lashes. It will curl upwards without weighing your lashes down. So whether you’re hitting the gym, playing a world championship tennis game, going to a wedding, or even watching a soppy movie – waterproof mascara could be a really great option for you.
MAC Zoom Waterfast Lash is a creamy, velvety texture, with a tear/sweat/humidity/waterproof formula. It curls and lengthens with a flexible, sculpted application. Gives a natural volume and a clean, fluttery look to your lashes.
Cargo Cosmetics have these gorgeous water-resistant blush powders, part of their Swimmables collection (which includes a bronzer and eye pencils too). Packaged in their signature oversized silver tin, Cargo offers a lovely array of professional quality shades of blush with a subtle glow that stay in place. The long-wearing formular withstands perspiration, with a silky smooth texture that layers well for the most subtle or intense desire.
Available to buy online from an array of beauty stores online including Debenhams, and BeautyBay.
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