If you've ever spent time perfecting your eyeshadow look only to have it disappear into your crease by midday, you're not alone. Oily eyelids, hooded eyes, and warm weather can all conspire against your eye makeup. But with the right preparation and products, you can achieve eyeshadow that looks as fresh at 8 PM as it did at 8 AM.
Why Does Eyeshadow Crease?
Understanding why your eyeshadow creases is the first step to preventing it. Creasing happens when:
- Natural oils on your eyelids break down the eyeshadow pigments
- The natural folding motion of your eyelid pushes product into the crease
- Applying too much product causes it to migrate and bunch up
- Using the wrong formula for your lid type
- Not properly setting your base before applying color
The Crease-Proof Eye Makeup Routine
Step 1: Start with Clean, Dry Lids
Remove any traces of skincare products, including eye cream, from your lids. These products contain oils that will cause your eyeshadow to slide. If you have naturally oily lids, gently blot them with a tissue or use an oil-free makeup wipe before starting.
Step 2: Prime Your Lids
Eye primer is non-negotiable for crease-free shadow. A good primer creates a smooth, slightly tacky base that helps eyeshadow adhere and prevents oils from breaking through.
Apply a thin, even layer from lash line to brow bone and let it set for 30 seconds before applying shadow. Don't skip this step—it's the foundation (pun intended) of long-lasting eye makeup.
No Primer? Try This
In a pinch, you can use a thin layer of concealer or foundation as a primer substitute. Set it with a light dusting of translucent powder before applying eyeshadow. This isn't as effective as a dedicated primer but works for those days when you're caught without one.
Step 3: Set with Powder
After your primer has set, dust a light layer of translucent powder or a matte eyeshadow that matches your skin tone over your lids. This creates an additional barrier against oil and gives powder shadows something to grip onto.
Step 4: Build Your Eyeshadow in Thin Layers
Less is more when it comes to crease-proof eye makeup. Instead of packing on colour:
- Apply thin layers and build up gradually
- Tap your brush to remove excess before applying
- Use pressing motions rather than swiping to deposit colour
- Blend with a clean brush to avoid muddying colours
Step 5: Choose the Right Formulas
Not all eyeshadow formulas are equal when it comes to longevity:
- Powder shadows: Best when used with primer; look for highly pigmented formulas
- Cream shadows: Set with a matching powder shadow to prevent creasing
- Liquid shadows: Often long-wearing once set, but apply quickly as they dry fast
- ColorStay eye products: Specifically formulated for all-day wear without creasing
Avoid These Mistakes
Don't apply eye cream right before makeup—wait at least 10 minutes. Don't skip primer, even if you're in a rush. Don't touch or rub your eyes throughout the day, as the oils from your fingers will break down your makeup.
Step 6: Lock It In
After completing your eye look, set everything in place:
- Mist with a setting spray, closing your eyes while applying
- Alternatively, press a tiny amount of setting powder over your lids with a fluffy brush
- For extreme conditions (humidity, long events), do both
Special Considerations for Different Eye Types
For Oily Lids
- Use a mattifying eye primer
- Blot lids with oil-blotting sheets throughout the day
- Stick to powder formulas over creams
- Keep a small brush for quick touch-ups
For Hooded Eyes
- Apply primer to your entire lid, including the hooded area
- Set thoroughly with powder before applying colour
- Apply your crease colour slightly above your natural crease
- Wait for each layer to dry before opening your eyes fully
For Mature Lids
- Use a hydrating primer to prevent shadows settling into fine lines
- Avoid glitter and chunky shimmer that can emphasize texture
- Stick to satin and matte finishes for the most flattering effect
- Apply less product—thin layers look more natural
Touch-Up Tips for Long Days
If you need to refresh your eye makeup during the day:
- Gently blot lids with a tissue or blotting paper to remove oil
- Use a small brush to blend any areas that have creased
- Add a light layer of powder shadow to refresh colour
- Avoid adding more primer mid-day as this can cause buildup
With these techniques, you'll have eye makeup that stays put no matter what your day brings. Pair it with long-lasting lip color for a complete look. Find Revlon ColorStay eye products at Clicks, Dis-Chem, and leading retailers across South Africa.