Why Does Mascara Smudge and How Does It Affect Your Makeup Look?
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Smudged mascara – one of the worst beauty nightmares that almost every woman has experienced…
That moment when you notice black lines appearing under your eyes, or mascara “transferring” onto your eyelids, creates frustration because it can completely ruin your entire makeup look…
And below you’ll discover how to prevent this from ever happening to you…
How Does Mascara Go Wrong?
Mascara presents a challenge for many women because there are many factors that affect how you’ll apply it…
Eye shape, hooded eyelids, whether your eyes water or not – these are just some of the obstacles along the way.
An even bigger problem arises when you add the mistakes women often make, such as:
Using the Wrong Mascara for Your Lash Type
Most women choose mascara based on desired effect – volume, length, or lift.
However, we forget to choose based on eye type, lash type, and even weather conditions.
Too Many Layers of Mascara
Applying multiple layers of mascara hoping to achieve a dramatic look often leads to clumped lashes that, as the day goes on, give in under their weight and smudge.
Incorrectly Applied Mascara on Lower Lashes
Applying mascara to lower lashes requires attention and precision. Many women apply too much product to their lower lashes, which leads to mascara smudging under the eyes.
This most commonly happens due to rushing and impatience during application.
Insufficient Setting of Eye Area Makeup
Eyes often produce natural oils or tears, while eyelids get oily throughout the day.
If you don’t use setting powder in this area, the chances of your mascara smudging are much higher, and this is something many women overlook.
Unfortunately, The Problems Don't End There
Besides all the mentioned mistakes that women often make, other things happen that we either can’t control or aren’t even aware of, such as:
Oily Eyelids
One of the main causes of mascara smudging is oily eyelids, and many women don’t recognize this problem…
They’re not aware that oily lids affect mascara smudging, nor do they notice their skin getting oily in that area throughout the day…
So when their mascara smudges, they don’t know why it happened…
Watery Eyes
Women who have sensitive eyes or those who spend a lot of time outdoors face issues with watery eyes, resulting in smudged mascara.
Too Many Products Combined
When we use too many products around the eyes, like rich eye creams or overly hydrating concealers, mascara can easily melt and smudge.
Touching Eyes During the Day
One of the most common unconscious habits many women practice is touching or rubbing their eyes throughout the day.
Most do this unintentionally, and it’s one of the frequent causes of mascara smudging.
What Do Women Usually Do to Fix Smudged Mascara?
Mascara is the cornerstone of every makeup look, and when it smudges, the consequences for your makeup appearance are obvious…
…especially if we’re at work, an important meeting, out socializing, etc.
And when these problems occur, women often resort to quick-fix methods for mascara that do more harm than good…
Some of these incorrect methods include:
Wiping Mascara with Fingers or Tissues
This can further spread the smudge and create an even bigger mess, especially if the woman isn’t in a position to completely fix her makeup.
Applying Concealer Over Smudges
Quickly applying concealer over smudged mascara might cover the problem briefly, but often the concealer builds up and contributes to a messy appearance.
Reapplying Mascara
Many women think reapplying mascara will refresh their look, but this often leads to clumped lashes and even more smudging.
How to Prevent Mascara from Smudging?
There are simple but effective solutions to prevent mascara smudging that can help your makeup stay put all day.
Choose Waterproof Mascara
If your eyes tend to water or you have oily lids, waterproof mascara is your best friend.
It provides extra staying power and protects against moisture, whether it comes from your eyes or external environment.
Set the Eye Area
After applying concealer or foundation under your eyes, always set the area with a fine loose powder.
This will absorb excess oil and reduce the chances of mascara smudging.
Use Eye Primer
Eye primer isn’t just for eyeshadow – it can help your makeup stay in place longer, including mascara.
Apply it to your lids before applying any eye products.
Reduce Use of Rich Creams
Too many hydrating products around the eyes can interfere with mascara’s staying power.
If you use eye cream, apply it in a thin layer and wait for it to fully absorb before continuing with makeup.
Avoid Touching Your Eyes
We all know how hard it is not to touch our eyes, but this is a key step in preventing mascara from smudging.
Try to be conscious of when your hands go to your face and prevent touching your eyes during the day, especially when outdoors.
Different Eye Shapes and How to Treat Them
When it comes to different eye shapes, it’s necessary to pay attention to the specific challenges they bring regarding mascara.
Watery Eyes
If your eyes water frequently, focus on waterproof mascara and avoid using too much product on lower lashes.
Also, try applying mascara only to upper lashes to reduce chances of smudging.
Hooded Eyes
Women with hooded eyes often struggle with mascara transferring onto their upper lids.
The solution lies in applying light layers of mascara and using long-wearing powder to further mattify the lids.
Oily Lids
If you have oily lids, your first step should be eye primer and long-lasting waterproof mascara.
This combination will help keep mascara in place regardless of excess oil.
If you’re part of our community within the Ekaa Makeup mobile app and have any additional questions or need help with makeup, contact us in the mentorship section and we’ll be happy to help.
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