NARS is always at the forefront of global makeup trends and innovation. We love how versatile and adaptable their products are. If a new makeup trend comes along, chances are, you can dig into your NARS makeup bag and find tried-and-tested products to achieve it – and with ease.
Marco Louis is the National Makeup Artist for NARS South Africa, so he knows a thing or two about the world of beauty. We asked him what to expect from Summer 2025 makeup trends, and how to keep your makeup in place during the South African heat.
Q1. Now that the warmer weather is setting in, what are some of the biggest makeup trends we can expect to see over the coming summer months?
Minimalist makeup will always have its place — that effortless, sunlit ease is part of our South African summer. But this season, colour takes the spotlight in the most intentional way. It’s all about tiny, impactful details: a bright liner flick, a vivid lip, or a playful pop of blush that instantly lifts the face. Choose one feature and let it shine while keeping everything else understated. It’s modern, joyful, and beautifully expressive.
Q2. Natural-looking, glowing skin seems to be an ongoing trend season after season. Can we expect the same this summer?
Healthy, fresh-looking skin will always be in fashion. What’s evolving is how we balance that natural glow with intentional makeup. More artists — myself included — are embracing makeup that still looks like makeup, but with skin as the foundation of the look. This summer will absolutely keep those lightweight, skin-mimicking textures we all love, but there’s also a return of “more is more” glam. The secret is skincare: radiant, nourished skin makes every level of glam — from minimal to full — look better.
Q3. Trends aside, what are some of your personal favourite makeup looks or products for summer?
Honestly, my whole aesthetic at the moment is about skin — skin that looks crafted, dimensional, and alive. Cream textures are my go-to for summer because they melt into the complexion and keep everything looking natural and effortless. My favourite finishes always involve a touch of warmth, a hint of colour, and a complexion that still feels like skin. When you bring those elements together with the right NARS staples — like Laguna Cream Bronzers, The Multiple, Light Reflecting Foundation and a little Crystal Powder — you get that perfect summer look: glowing, polished, but still undeniably you.
Q4. For those of us who love spending time outdoors or lead active lifestyles: how can we achieve a polished look without going full glam?
A gym-to-brunch complexion is so easy with the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser — it’s nourishing, lightweight, offers comfortable medium coverage, and comes with SPF. It evens your tone while keeping your skin natural and breathable. Finish with Light Reflecting Crystal Powder on the T-zone, a wash of Afterglow Lip Oil in your favourite shade, and a few coats of Climax Mascara. It’s minimal effort with maximum polish — perfect for an active summer.
Q5. Do you have any tips for making your makeup stay in place when temperatures are scorching?
Working on outdoor, high-fashion shoots has taught me one of the best tricks: layer your setting mist. First, after your skincare and SPF, mist generously with the NARS Light Reflecting Setting Mist and let it dry — this gives your skin a little “grip” for foundation. Then do your makeup, and mist again to lock everything in. Throughout the day, dab away shine with a tissue (don’t rub!) and touch up with Crystal Powder. It keeps everything looking fresh, even in the height of summer.
Q6. Any must-have NARS products everyone should have in their collection this season?
NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser – sheer, glowy, and protective. Crystal Translucent Powder – weightless and perfect for heat-control. The Multiple – your all-in-one colour stick for eyes, cheeks, and lips. Afterglow Lip Oil – hydrating shine with the iconic Orgasm tint. Light Reflecting Makeup Setting Mist – the secret to long-wear summer glam.
Q7. What are some of the best makeup tips you’ve picked up throughout your career?
Prep with intention. Know the finish you want before you start — skincare and preparation are never one-size-fits-all. Don’t attempt a big new makeup look right before an important event. Master your skin and foundation first; once your complexion is flawless, everything else becomes easier. Have fun with it. Makeup should feel like self-care — a ritual, a moment for yourself, and an extension of your personality.
And one of my favourite reminders from François Nars himself: “Don’t be so serious, it’s only makeup.” It’s the best advice I’ve ever received — and the one I hope everyone carries with them.
Shop NARS products online here, from the NARS boutique stores in the V & A Waterfront and Sandton City and from ARC stores nationwide.
1 comment
Lerato Kgari
I know it’s advised not to be serious because “it’s just makeup” but to me????Nars isn’t just makeup, it’s a dream as a self employed makeup artist to have Nars products in my beauty case. Praying to God for the ability to afford everything ever released by the Nars company❤️