Just like applying primer before your foundation, skipping eye makeup primer can lead to the dreaded smudged eyeliner. Without a proper base, natural oils on your eyelids can cause your eyeliner to break down, leading to eyeliner under the eye and ruining your look.
If your eyeliner won't adhere to your waterline, it's probably too hard or dry. It's best to use a gel eyeliner under your eyes or even in your waterline occasionally, because it's softer and spreads easily.
Sometimes, smudges are the result of fallout during eye-makeup application. A rogue droplet of mascara or sprinkle of shadow may be imperceptible when it first lands under your eyes, but the minute you sweat or your skin pumps out a little sebum, the pigment remoistens, slides, and smears.
The reason your eyeliner is wearing off is because the oils on your eyelids are removing it. You can start by applying a primer and/or concealer to the eyelid to act as a barrier between the oils of your skin and your makeup. Then use a translucent powder to add another dry layer of protection.
To prevent smudged eyeliner, opt for a waterproof pencil, especially if you're applying it to your lower lash line or waterline. This type of eyeliner is great for creating a smokey look but can also be smudge-proof if you choose the right formula.
Primer on your eyelid and transluscent powder under your eye. Use a durable eyeliner. Bring a little powder to work to dab under your eye through the day as needed. Since you aren't wearing foundation and are in a rush, get a primer that's clear, like the Milani or Viseart.
Your chosen makeup formulas and application techniques can also play a role: heavy formulas, insufficient blending, and lack of setting can all exacerbate creasing under the eyes and spoil that smooth finish you're after.
"When makeup is applied to the area known as the waterline, it can potentially block the glands known as meibomian glands that release an oily substance that contributes to the tear film, which can subsequently lead to dry eye or irritation," Garshick said.
Powder First, Line Second
To do this, lightly dust along the lash line with a very small amount of translucent powder to absorb excess moisture and oil, and then apply your long-wear eyeliner and powder for maximum eyeliner longevity,” she recommends.
If you notice that your under eyes look dry or crepe-like after you've applied your concealer, ensure you use a good eye cream and primer beforehand, and opt for a more moisturising cream-type concealer. When your under-eye concealer is too rich and moisturizing, it will smudge in our humid weather.
If you prefer your skin to look a bit glowier, you may favor setting spray. Setting sprays have a lighter application compared to powders so the coverage is sheerer and more natural-looking. Plus, unlike powders, they come in an array of finishes, so you should be able to find one that suits your preferences.
Both Brissette and Spieler recommend using brown mascara, rather than black mascara, on mature eyes. “When I do mature women for special occasions, I always use brown or black/brown mascara,” Spieler says.
One primary reason eyeliner smudges is due to the natural oils in your skin. These oils can break down the eyeliner, causing it to migrate and create that unwanted "panda" effect. Skincare products can also contribute to this issue if they haven't fully absorbed into your skin.
Powder to Set (Optional)
Bags can be enhanced by creasing concealer (which is a result of oily skin), so a light dusting of translucent powder, like Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder can be helpful. Instead of dusting it on, use a brush or sponge to "stamp" it into the skin to prevent streaking.
"The oil in our skin, or creamy products applied around the eyes, can make the pigment of the mascara transfer onto skin, even after the mascara is dry," says Nikki Wolff, the global creative director of artistry for KVD Beauty. Even if your skin isn't naturally oily, sweat and heat can cause mascara to run.
If you're looking for a mascara that will keep your eye makeup in place all day long, look no further than smudge-proof mascaras. These mascaras are designed to keep your eye makeup looking fresh and vibrant by coating your lashes with a thin layer of waterproofing that prevents it from smudging.
Setting spray does not smudge eyeliner, in fact, it does the opposite. It will set your eyeliner in place so it doesn't move or smudge throughout the day.