The upside to humidity? It can help keep your skin moisturized. The downside? It sends your carefully-applied makeup running south faster than a former Alaskan governor in search of fame and fortune. The heat is on, and summer is not going to let us leave the house sweat-free for quite a few more weeks. So what are some easy, quick tips on how to keep your makeup from melting – and other best beauty bits for surviving the warmth?

Use a primer. Primers are considered the basis of your makeup and should be applied under it all. It will help your foundation wear all day, fill in lines and pores, and generally make for a smooth canvas. Some can also absorb oil. Expert call primers the “essential.” I call them “neat-o” – especially Tarte’s ReCreate Primer. This product gives your skin a dry, tight feeling good for summer, though probably not best for dehydrated skin. Tarte’s product is free of parabens, silicone, phthalates, and petrolatum.

Skip the moisturizer for a hydrating toner. Sometimes, just sometimes, it is simply too hot and sticky to think about putting anything other than ice on your face. On those wettest of days, consider substituting your daily moisturizer with a hydrating toner. This can keep your skin feeling balanced, but it won’t necessarily add to the oil you’re already combating. The best toner in the entire universe? Check out our review of Thayer’s Rose Petal Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel.

Use a mattifying sunscreen. Yes, your sunscreen can make your skin feel oilier. So be sure to pick one that’s going to keep things feeling dry. Check out our review of Coola’s Mineral Matte Face Finish SPF 30. To quote myself, “Due to the matte finish, it offers up an almost powdery application that leaves your skin feeling like you just dusted with cover up, not slicked with sunscreen.” You have to love a sunscreen that makes your face feel drier upon application.

Wear a slip. Okay, I know Mad Men is days away from premiering its next season and a lot of us have our Joan Holloway hats ready. But a slip really can cut down on chafing when your skirts literally stick to you. Plus with the high noon rays of summer bearing down on us, it isn’t the worst thing not to be able to see through your skirts. Joan Holloway would agree on such lady-like modesty!

Keep a clean handkerchief. I know, we’re still in Mad Men territory. But when you’re pouring sweat, sometimes a tissue just ain’t gonna cut it. Consider stashing an organic cotton handkerchief in your purse for those moments when you need some extra absorption. They’re cute, utterly recyclable in the wash, and will make the act of dabbing your hairline seem much more vintage.