Heatwave Survival: The Cool Girl Guide to Looking and Feeling Fresh When It’s 38°C

When the temperature climbs and the air feels like soup, looking cute and keeping your cool feels like a full-time job. But don’t sweat it - literally. Here’s Affects ultimate heatwave survival guide, from makeup that won’t melt to smart food swaps, day structuring and SPF that slaps.

Structure Your Day Smarter

When the heat is relentless, how you move through the day matters. Start early. Mornings are cooler, quieter, and perfect for workouts, errands or even just a walk. Avoid direct sun between 11am and 4pm. Use that window to stay indoors, work, recharge, or relax. Do something fun with friends in the evening. Living a hot summer while the sun sets.

Makeup That Stays Put

In a heatwave, less is always more, we don't need to be running around in a full face of makeup. Start with a lightweight skin tint with built-in SPF. Choose mattifying powder blush and bronzer to balance the natural shine. Waterproof browgel and mascara are your best friend, but in general keep it natural around the eye to prevent smudging and lock everything in in the end with a setting spray.

Hydration with Intention

Hydration goes beyond drinking water, though that’s your baseline. Begin your day with a full glass of water, ideally with lemon or a pinch of sea salt. Add electrolytes if you're sweating a lot, best with coconut water or dissolvable tabs. Herbal teas like mint or hibiscus, served chilled, are hydrating and refreshing without caffeine overload. A bonus tip: Store a facial mist in the fridge and spray as needed. It revives both skin and mood.

Clothing That Works with Heat, Not Against It

What you wear makes a difference,  not just in style, but in temperature control. Choose breathable fabrics and avoid synthetic blends. Keep silhouettes loose and airy with breezy dresses and wide-leg trousers. If possible, skip the bra to minimize layers and the sticky feeling, we all know and hate.

Small Tricks That Make a Big Difference

Keep frozen grapes, cold berries, or dark chocolate in the fridge for a refreshing pick-me-up. Reapply SPF throughout the day, don’t skip areas like the ears, back of the neck, décolletage and the tops of feet. Keep a mini hand fan in your bag, especially for public transport or outdoor events. Store your moisturiser in the fridge for a morning refresh. Sleep with a damp towel by your feet, an old-school hack that works.