The Makeup Artist’s Guide To Keeping Mascara Off Your Eyelids

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The Makeup Artist’s Guide To Keeping Mascara Off Your Eyelids

There are many ways creating an eye look can take a wrong turn. In fact, if you manage to make it to the end of a smokey eye without a hint of frustration, you, my friend, deserve a medal. One such common mishap? Getting mascara on your eyelids.

Ah yes, that old chestnut. It plagues those blessed with long lashes and hooded eyelids most but nobody is immune to those spider-like smudges.

The good news is we asked makeup artist Hayley Dutton to share her tricks for how to prevent getting your mascara on your eyelids just after you apply it. And she did not disappoint with her advice…

How to prevent mascara getting on your eyelids

#1 Look down not up

To avoid what is undeniably one of beauty’s most annoying things ever, Hayley recommends positioning your chin properly.

“When you’re applying your mascara, lift your chin and look down with your eyes, as this creates a better angle and allows space between your lashes and eyelid”, she says. “Keep this angle for about 20 seconds until your mascara dries. If possible, it’s best to try not to look around (especially not up) for about 20 seconds after applying your mascara.”

#2 Apply powder

Got a translucent powder handy? Hayley suggests applying some to your lids before you get your mascara wand out, as it will minimise the chance of your mascara smudging once applied. A neutral eyeshadow will also do the trick.

#3 Damage control

But what about those times is the smudge has already happened? “The best way to sort it out is to grab a cotton tip [with some makeup remover] and use the end to softly dab the mascara off,” instructs Hayley. “Be sure to wait until the mascara is dry and try not to rub as this will just smudge and make it worse! Make sure you follow by using the eyeshadow brush you used to apply your colour to quickly blend out the area where the mascara has hit.”

And just in case you’re sitting there thinking that your finger is basically the same as a cotton tip, don’t be tempted to rub.

“This will just smudge it and create an even bigger mess for you to clean up,” says Hayley. Plus, that can a) get quite sore if you’re using a mascara that just doesn’t budge, and b) leave your eye area looking a little red and irritated.

Can’t I just cover it up?

Hayley also doesn’t condone trying to hide your smudges with concealer, foundation, powder, or eyeshadow. She says it’s best to remove the mascara before adding any more product to your lids.

And if all else fails and you’re still suffering? Hayley recommends heading to your local salon and treating yourself to an eyelash tint. Problem solved!

Do you suffer from this problem? Do you have any other makeup problems that you’d like Hayley’s advice on?

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