5-Step Summer Skincare Prep According to NYC Makeup Artist
When it comes to achieving flawless summer makeup, the secret isn’t just in the foundation – it starts with your skincare. Glowing, hydrated, and balanced skin is the ultimate canvas for long-lasting, natural-looking makeup, especially in the heat and humidity of summer.
To uncover the best skincare practices that lead to effortless makeup days, we turned to New York City makeup artist and influencer, and Lidav Beauty co-founder, Liana Davydova. Driven by a passion for simplifying beauty, she has empowered women to look and feel their best for over 15 years. She specializes in teaching clients to master their makeup routines, transforming everyday beauty into a luxurious, accessible experience. Liana shares her go-to skincare tips and product picks that ensure makeup not only looks better – but lasts longer.
From lightweight moisturizers to skin-smoothing serums, we’ll explore the must-have skincare products that support seamless makeup application, prevent midday meltdown, and keep your complexion looking fresh and radiant – all summer long.
Why Skincare Is Essential for Summer Makeup
“In the summer, heat and humidity can emphasize skin texture, dryness, or excess oil,” Liana explains. “Prepping your skin with the appropriate cleanser, exfoliant, toner, and moisturizer helps to smooth the skin’s surface so foundation and concealer apply more evenly and don’t settle into dry areas or enlarged pores.”
“Skincare isn't just self-care,” she explains, “it's the foundation of flawless makeup.” This is especially true in summer, when skin faces stressors like UV exposure, pollutants, and moisture loss. She emphasizes, “Great makeup starts with a clean and smooth canvas.” A well-prepped, hydrated, and balanced complexion ensures makeup lasts longer and looks fresher, as sweat and oil can break it down faster in warmer weather.
Liana’s 5-Step Summer Skincare Prep
Prior to any makeup application, Liana follows a specific five-step skincare regimen to ensure optimal results:
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Gentle Cleanse
“Even if the client has already cleansed, I always begin with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser or to remove residual sweat, oil, or sunscreen buildup. Fresh skin makes for better product grip.”
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Toning Mist or Balancing Toner
“To rebalance the skin’s pH and provide a refreshing boost, I use an alcohol-free toner. One of my favorites is the Repêchage Algo Mist® Hydrating Seaweed Facial Spray.”
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Lightweight Hydration
“Even in summer, skin needs hydration. I opt for a light moisturizer that hydrates without leaving a film. This step prevents skin from overproducing oil later in the day.”
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Targeted Treatment Based on Skin Type
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For oily skin: “a mattifying serum or oil-control primer only in the T-zone.”
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For dry or dehydrated skin: “layer a hyaluronic acid serum under moisturizer.”
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For textured skin: “a light exfoliating toner or enzyme-based prep can help smooth instantly.”
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Sun Protection
“If makeup will be worn outdoors, I apply a lightweight, non-greasy environmental protection – Repêchage Mineral Face Shield® is a must. Makeup sits best when skin is protected and not irritated.”
To ensure delicate areas are not neglected, she also applies a nourishing lip treatment and hydrating eye cream at the beginning of the routine – allowing them to absorb fully before makeup application.
Key Product Types for a Summer-Proof Base
In warmer climates, the priority is balancing hydration with oil control – without suffocating the skin. Liana recommends incorporating the following product categories into your summer skincare routine:
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Water-Based Moisturizers: “Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and won’t add excess shine.”
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Blurring or Mattifying Primers: “Silicone-based primers are great if you want to blur texture.”
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Setting Sprays with Skincare Benefits: “Look for ones that hydrate and lock in makeup.”
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Matte-Finish Mineral protection: “Doubles as a primer and protects the skin without pilling under makeup.”
Repêchage Favorites: Liana’s Top Picks
For clients looking to maintain a balanced, radiant complexion throughout the summer, Liana turns to Repêchage for performance-driven formulas rooted in professional skincare:
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Hydra Medic® Mattifying Moisturizer: “A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that hydrates while controlling shine – ideal for oily and combination skin.”
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Hydra Dew Pure™ Facial Essence Mist: “This seaweed- and mastic water mist refreshes the skin without weighing it down – perfect for mid-day hydration or makeup prep.”
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Hydra Dew Pure™ Moisture Lift Serum: “Delivers a plumping effect and deep hydration without a greasy feel.”
For clients with dry or sensitive skin, Liana recommends the Red-Out® Collection, formulated to calm and restore compromised skin. “My go-to is the Red-Out line – it’s literally made for these exact skin concerns,” she says.
