South African summers can push your lip color to its limits. With temperatures soaring above 35°C in cities like Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, keeping your lipstick looking fresh becomes a real challenge. But don't worry—with the right techniques and the Revlon Super Lustrous Ultra Lipstick, you can achieve all-day radiant colour even in the most extreme heat.
Why Lip Color Fades in Hot Weather
Before we dive into solutions, it's important to understand why your lipstick starts to fade, feather, or smudge when the mercury rises. Heat causes you to drink more water, lick your lips, and sweat—all of which break down the bond between your lip color and your lips. Humidity further accelerates this breakdown as moisture sits on the lip surface.
That's exactly why Revlon developed the Super Lustrous Ultra Lipstick with Moisture Wear Technology—to fight these effects and keep your lip color locked in place with a fade- and smudge-resistant finish that feels comfortable all day.
Step-by-Step Guide to Heat-Proof Lip Color
1 Start with Smooth, Prepped Lips
The key to long-lasting lip color is properly exfoliated and hydrated lips. For a deeper dive into prepping your lips for long-wear lipstick, check out our dedicated guide. In hot weather, use a gentle lip scrub, then apply a lightweight lip balm at least 10 minutes before your lipstick. Blot away any excess—too much moisture will cause your lip color to slide.
Pro Tip
Keep your lip balm in the fridge during summer. The cool sensation soothes lips and provides a refreshing start to your lip routine.
2 Line and Fill Your Lips
Never skip lip liner in hot weather—it's your lip color's best defence against heat. A matching lip liner creates a barrier that prevents feathering and gives your lipstick something to grip onto.
Outline your lips, then fill in the entire lip with liner. This base layer of pigment means even if your lipstick wears off slightly, you still have color underneath.
3 Choose the Right Shade
For hot weather, Revlon Super Lustrous Ultra Lipstick is your go-to. Its ultra-rich formula with Murumuru Butter and Orchid Extract delivers single-stroke full coverage that's fade- and smudge-resistant. Try Everyday Nudes like Sunkissed or Cashmere for effortless daytime looks, or go Bold & Beautiful with Heatwave or Bermuda for statement summer colour.
4 Apply with the Right Technique
How you apply your lipstick matters as much as what you apply. In hot weather:
- Apply directly from the bullet – The iconic gold glitter case gives you precise control for clean edges
- Use thin layers – Apply one layer, blot with a tissue, then apply a second for longer wear
- Stay inside the lip line – In heat, lipstick is more prone to feathering outside your natural lip border
- Blot between layers – This removes excess oils while keeping pigment locked in
5 Set It and Forget It
Setting your lip color is non-negotiable in South African summer. Hold a single-ply tissue over your lips and lightly dust translucent powder through it. This sets the colour without making it chalky. Alternatively, use a setting spray misted lightly over your lips for an invisible seal.
Secret Weapon
After applying lipstick, put your finger in your mouth, close your lips around it, and pull it out. This removes excess product from the inner lip that would otherwise transfer to cups and teeth.
Throughout the Day: Maintenance Tips
Even with perfect application, a little maintenance goes a long way:
- Keep your lipstick with you – The Super Lustrous Ultra Lipstick's compact gold case makes it easy to carry for quick touch-ups
- Blot before eating – A quick blot prevents oily foods from dissolving your lip color
- Stay hydrated smartly – Drink through a straw to minimise contact with your lips
- Avoid licking your lips – Saliva breaks down lipstick faster than anything; use a hydrating lip balm around the outer edges instead
The Super Lustrous Ultra Difference
Revlon Super Lustrous Ultra Lipstick is specifically formulated for lasting performance. The moisturising formula with Murumuru Butter and Orchid Extract ensures your lips stay comfortable and hydrated, while Moisture Wear Technology keeps the colour vibrant and locked in place. Whether you're commuting in Johannesburg traffic, working outdoors, or enjoying a beach day in Durban, Super Lustrous Ultra has you covered.
With 10 stunning shades—from Everyday Nudes like Rosewood and Tulip to Bold & Beautiful options like Fireside, Sedona, and Blackberry—there's a perfect colour for every summer occasion and every skin tone.
Quick Reference: Your Hot Weather Lip Checklist
- ✓ Gentle lip scrub to remove dead skin
- ✓ Lightweight lip balm (applied 10 min before)
- ✓ Matching lip liner (line and fill)
- ✓ Revlon Super Lustrous Ultra Lipstick
- ✓ Tissue for blotting between layers
- ✓ Translucent powder or setting spray
- ✓ Lipstick in your bag for touch-ups
Ready to put these tips to the test? Find your perfect Super Lustrous Ultra Lipstick shade at Clicks, Dis-Chem, Pick n Pay, or any leading retailer across South Africa. Why be Extra? Be Ultra.