Red carpet beauty: How to waterproof your look

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In Hollywood, stylists and makeup artists are crying in their soy lattes this morn. What could be worse than a wet red carpet? Most actresses will be escorted by umbrellas and nary a drop will dare to fall on their bare clavicles or crimson pouts. But the Rage knows that the rest of Oscar attendees don’t want to look like otters either.

How to waterproof your look?

Start with a stubborn hair spray that will shield your coif from the rain and the humidity in the air. Aqua Net Extra Super Hold Hairspray ain’t eco, but it will protect your curls, waves or stick-straight hair. It costs less than $3 at most drug stores and all the Hollywood pros rely on it. Hint: You might want to avoid a cascade of curls that could putter out in the humidity. Pick a sleek style that is impervious to the climate, like a slicked back bun or chic, high ponytail.

Next, wear lasting makeup that won’t run when wet. Christian Dior has a waterproof foundation formula ($42; sephora.com) called Diorskin Forever that comes in a handy compact, which is ideal on a day like this for any touch-ups. Most mineral powders are water-resistant too. Wear an extra layer today, just to be safe.

A gel is always preferable to a powder blush. Cheek stains are usually water-based, so they won’t react poorly to wayward droplets. The Rage has always loved Tarte cheek gel in flush ($28), which makes you look like you just ran 5 miles or had a five minute romp in the hay. Make Up Forever sells a waterproof liquid eyeliner that is also a favorite of celebrity makeup artists. It comes in black and brown and sells for $21 at Sephora.
You’re on your own when it comes to waterproof mascara, which is easy to find. The Rage likes Great Lash by Maybelline, FYI. Wouldn’t hurt to bring a few Q-tips along in your purse either.

Oh, and take a good look of that shot of Anita Ekberg in ‘La Dolce Vita’ and remember: Wet is sexy. If you find yourself in a downpour, pout and pretend that you just went for a dip in the Trevi fountain.

Photo credits: WireImage; Federico Fellini; All others, Sephora.com