1. Get preppy: Making sure your lids start off oil-free is crucial. Our eyelids naturally produce oils, which can act as a barrier while applying product, and we all know that water and oil don’t mix. So grab yourself an oil-based makeup remover to break down the oils and follow up with a toner to wipe the excess away.
2. Prime, prime, prime! Now you’re prepped, prime your lids with an eyeshadow primer. This acts as a base to make your products really stick and last longer. Tinted primers like Dior’s Backstage Eye Primer, $41, are great for creating an even canvas for your eye products.
3. Shimmy that shadow: Opt for a shadow that has a slight shimmer, as these will catch the light and add dimension when combined with a gloss. Most importantly, avoid glitters, as they tend to clump together and create a blobby mess – it’s more preschool art class than shimmer chic. Cream eyeshadows, like Shiseido’s Shimmering Cream Eye Colour, $48, are ideal for that lightweight feel.
4. Gloss up: Now for the pièce de résistance – the gloss. Using your finger, dab a small amount of gloss over your lid being careful to dab and not smear your hard work. Start off lightly, the less product you use, the less likely it is to move or build up in the crease. Most importantly, avoid the crease – where it tends to feel the most sticky – and no one will even see that it’s not all over.
For a more subtle gloss finish, we love Jillian Dempsey’s vegan Lid Tint in the shade Dew, $28, which gives a really natural shine, plus it’s packed with incredible organic ingredients like shea butter and marula oil. You can even use a little oil, like jojoba oil on bare lids, or a lightweight lip gloss or balm, like Lanolips to give your lids a natural glow – just make sure the gloss isn’t too sticky or a plumping gloss, which will make your eyes tingle!
5. Powder. Wait, powder? Applying a powder to a glossy lid may seem counterproductive but a very small amount of translucent powder applied lightly can soak up the excess stickiness and help your lids stay locked! This No-Color Powder, $12, bargain buy from RCMA will do the trick. Remember, dab don’t swoop!
6. Get set: Mist your lids with a setting spray to keep your look
