Hi!
I don't know a direct answer to question number one but I always found tucking to be a non-problem since you can almost always wear clothes that make it unnecessary. On the beach, I used to wear a beach skirt in the same fabric as the swimsuit. I googled beach skirt just to find an example and here is one:
http://www.smallest-bikin[...]arent=7
Hides everything and I think it looks great too.
Can't help you on question number 2, never wore a bikini before I had breasts that needed covering up.
About makeup and melting.. I'm no makeup specialist by any means but I think it's liquid foundation that cause the melting effect. When in the sun, your pores will open up and you will start to sweat and that sweat will mix with the foundation and it will "melt". At least I guess that's what happens.
Try using a mineral based foundation instead, I use "i.d. bareMinerals" which works fantastic for me (even mom started using it after I recommended it)
. I think it has a sunscreen factor of about 20 or something too...
If you use a mineral based foundation, there is nothing that can "melt" although you will of course still get sweaty and your face will get shiny from it but hey, that's what it's like to be human.
Hi Michelle,
1. There are lots of threads on this issue already and you can still wear a gaffe made out of hosiery under your costune. I have also found that having a pattern on the swimsuit/bikini helps to disguise any slight mound you might be left with. Or you can buy one size smaller in bikini bottoms, that helps too.
2. I keep my boobs in place using medical adhesive and a good fitting costume, and have not yet had a problem. I also chose tops that covered everything well enough too.
3. Like you, I need to wear make up and use 'Dermablend' as a base since it is waterproof and doesn't come off very easily at all, even when wet or sweating. Everything else is Max Factor who make a decent range of waterproof eye liners, eye shadow and lipstick etc. It holds out pretty well in the heat too. But I really haven't had any difficulties with their regular items that a quick trip to the ladies and a mirror can't put right.
Good luck
Nikki