Makeup needn't fight the heat

Heat and humidity can be a nuisance when it comes to keeping your foundation from running, lip gloss from caking and perspiration from setting in.

But you don't have to fight it.

Texas makeup artist Tanya Robertson says the humidity helps keep the skin hydrated and the face looking younger, sans the surgery.

"Women always want to put on more makeup than they need during the summer," she said. "They try to fight the elements by caking on products instead of focusing on products that adhere to the skin, like a lightweight powder and a water-resistant bronzer."

Here are a few cheap essentials:

All-over color

Robertson raves about all-over-color products since they essentially give you one product for your cheeks, eyes and lips. If you're looking for cheap, I mean really cheap, check out the e.l.f. (aka for Eyes, Lips, Face) cosmetics line at many grocery and discount stores and online at eyeslipsface.com. Most e.l.f. products are $1, and the company recently launched its e.l.f. Studio semi-pro line, also at a bargain. (Allure magazine recently praised the line as a "cheap thrill.")

Bronzers

Regardless of your skin tone, a bronzer can give you a gentle sun-kissed look. Revlon, L'Oreal and Iman have some great reasonably priced bronzers at Target and other stores. If the bronzer gives your skin an orange tint, it's not the right color. Also, if it's too dark, you'll have a muddy look. Best bet is to pick a golden tone.

Shadows

Jewel-tone eye shadows, such as deep purple and turquoise, are summer showstoppers for a night out. But too many of us don't know how to apply the color. Avon's purple-haze shadow kit is $8. Avon global creative color director Jillian Dempsey, wife of Patrick Dempsey ("Grey's Anatomy"), says to apply the lightest shade to the entire lid first, then apply the medium hue from the lash line to the crease. You can combine the two darkest shades to create a dramatic look by sweeping them along the crease of the eye. And remember to blend, she says. (Also, don't forget a water-resistant mascara.)

Brows

Well-groomed eyebrows give you an excuse to not wear much makeup since they frame the face so well, Robertson said. Getting brows professionally shaped, either by waxing or threading, can cost $20-$30. You can also shape them at home with brow kits, such as Anastasia Brow Ex-Press Kit (my favorite), $38, at Ulta and Sephora.