One of the most common makeup mishaps that I hear about from guests? Smudged mascara. And of course, it usually happens after spending a good chunk of time creating a killer blended eyeshadow look. Ugggh, for sure.
I struggled with this for years, too, until I figured out *why* it was happening (it’s not always just the mascara, unfortunately) and came up with two foolproof solutions. Below, I break it all down so you can bat those lashes with confidence—all day long.
Why Mascara Smudges
Mascara smudges for various reasons, but usually has more to do with your skin type than the kind of mascara you’re using. Basically, oil from your eyelids can travel down to your lash line and smear the formula, while long lashes can transfer some mascara above your lid as you blink. And if you’ve got reeeaaally long lashes and/or oily eyelids, then lucky you—you’re particularly prone to this type of mishap.
The Fix Step 1: Take Care of Your Skin
The first thing is to use a mattifying powder to help absorb oils on your face. Jane Iredale makes a pressed powder called Beyond Matte HD Matifying Powder specifically to help with shine control. And bonus—it is compact enough to keep with you and touch up throughout the day as needed.
The Fix Step 2: Find the Right Mascara
The other option, and my new personal favorite, would be to use a tubing mascara. Many people haven’t heard of this type of mascara before, but several different vendors make this product so you have a variety of price points to choose from. (Note: Cole’s unfortunately doesn’t have a vendor that currently carries this.)
So what is tubing mascara? It’s an innovative formula that’s waterproof, long-lasting and easy on the most sensitive eyes. Boasting major results when it comes to volume, tubing mascaras use flexible polymers to wrap each individual lash (like a tube, hence the name) to maximize even the smallest lashes on your lash line. Best of all, it doesn’t transfer onto your skin! I started using this a few months ago and I’m never going back to regular mascara.
What are your tried-and-true, flake-free, smudge-proof favorites? Let us know! And if you still have questions about what mascara and eye makeup is best for you—stop in or shoot me an email!
Kate Moore is the Retail and Service Advisor at Cole’s Salon Burnsville. She can be reached with any product or service questions at 952-435-8585 or kate@colessalon.com.
