A comprehensive guide to selecting the best eyeliner for oily eyelids.
Choosing the right eyeliner for oily lids is a common challenge. This guide offers practical advice and actionable steps to help you find an eyeliner that stays put.
Understanding Oily Lids
Oily lids, also known as “hooded” or “creased” lids, are a common issue for many people. The oil on the eyelids can cause a makeup product to smudge or transfer, leading to a “raccoon eye” look. Understanding this can help you choose the right product.
Eyeliner Types for Oily Lids
Not all eyeliners are created equal. The type of eyeliner you use can make a significant difference in how it holds up against oil.
1. Gel Eyeliner: Gel eyeliner comes in a small pot and is applied with a separate brush. It’s often highly pigmented and dries quickly to a matte finish, which is excellent for oily lids.
- Pros:
- Highly pigmented
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Long-lasting
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Waterproof
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Smudge-proof
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Cons:
- Requires a separate brush
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Can dry out in the pot
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Requires a steady hand for application
2. Liquid Eyeliner: Liquid eyeliner is a classic choice for a sharp, precise line. It comes in a variety of forms, including a felt-tip pen and a brush applicator.
- Pros:
- Intense color payoff
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Easy to create a sharp line
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Waterproof and smudge-proof formulas are available
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Cons:
- Can be challenging to use for beginners
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Can flake off if not a good formula
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Can crack on the lid if not properly set
3. Pencil Eyeliner: Pencil eyeliner is the most common type and is easy to use. However, traditional pencils often contain oils and waxes that can make them more prone to smudging on oily lids.
- Pros:
- Easy to use
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Affordable
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Great for smudging and a smokey eye
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Cons:
- Not always long-lasting
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Can smudge easily
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Needs to be sharpened
How to Choose the Right Eyeliner
Choosing the right eyeliner for your oily lids involves a bit of trial and error. Here are some factors to consider.
1. Ingredients: Look for eyeliners with ingredients that are known to be long-lasting and waterproof.
- Silicone-based formulas: Silicone is a common ingredient in long-wear makeup. It creates a smooth, durable barrier that resists smudging and fading.
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Polymer-based formulas: Polymers, such as acrylates copolymer, create a film-like layer that helps the product adhere to the skin and last longer.
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Waterproof formulas: These formulas are specifically designed to resist water, sweat, and oil.
2. Formula: The formula of the eyeliner is the most important factor to consider.
- Quick-drying formulas: These formulas set quickly, which means less chance for them to smudge.
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Matte finish: Matte finishes tend to last longer on oily lids than satin or shimmery finishes.
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Smudge-proof formulas: Look for eyeliners that are specifically marketed as “smudge-proof” or “long-wear.”
3. Application Method: The way you apply your eyeliner can also affect its longevity.
- Use a primer: Applying an eyeshadow primer before your eyeliner creates a smooth canvas for the product and helps it adhere better.
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Set with powder: After applying your eyeliner, you can set it with a translucent powder or a matte eyeshadow of the same color.
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Use a waterproof formula: If you have very oily lids, a waterproof formula is a must.
Eyeliner Application Techniques for Oily Lids
The way you apply your eyeliner can be as important as the product itself. Here are some techniques to help your eyeliner stay put.
1. The “Sandwich” Method: This technique involves applying a layer of eyeshadow primer, then your eyeliner, and then setting it with a layer of translucent powder.
- Step 1: Apply an eyeshadow primer to your lids.
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Step 2: Apply your eyeliner.
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Step 3: Use a small, flat brush to gently pat a translucent powder over the eyeliner.
2. The “Smudge and Set” Method: This technique is great for creating a smokey look that won’t smudge.
- Step 1: Apply a pencil eyeliner to your lash line.
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Step 2: Use a smudge brush to blend the eyeliner out.
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Step 3: Use a matte eyeshadow of the same color to set the eyeliner.
Maintaining Your Eyeliner
Once you’ve found the right eyeliner and application technique, you need to maintain it throughout the day.
- Blotting papers: Keep oil-blotting papers on hand to gently blot any excess oil from your lids.
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Reapply: If your eyeliner starts to fade, you can reapply a small amount to touch it up.
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Avoid rubbing: Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can cause your eyeliner to smudge.
Conclusion
Choosing the right eyeliner for oily lids is a challenge, but with the right knowledge and techniques, you can find a product that works for you. By understanding the different types of eyeliner, what to look for in a formula, and how to apply it correctly, you can achieve a smudge-free look that lasts all day.