4 Makeup Artist-Approved Tips to Keep Your Eye Makeup From Running

TIP 1: Don’t Over-Moisturize

Excess moisturizer will cause your makeup to smudge, so make sure not to apply too much eye cream around your eye area right before applying makeup or intense liner. All you need is a pea-size amount to get maximum hydration. You can also try a lightweight eye balm that easily absorbs into the skin, like the Tula Rose Glow & Get It Brightening Eye Balm.

TIP 2: Apply Primer 

Before applying any eye makeup, such as eyeliner, it’s always important to prime the eyes. Try the Urban Decay Primer Potion that is perfect for all day wear. 

TIP 3: Use Waterproof Liners

“I love the Giorgio Armani Waterproof Pencil in Black,” says Quinn. And if you really want a no-brainer experience, “the IT Cosmetics No-Tug Waterproof Eyeliner is great as it needs no sharpening,” he says.

TIP 4: Powder Up

“After applying liner on your upper lid, go over it with a translucent powder using a fine liner brush,” says Quinn. For lower lashes, try using a sheer pressed powder along the lash line before and after applying liner for extra staying powder. We recommend the Maybelline New York Banana Powder because the slight yellow tinge helps to brighten the under eyes. If you don’t have the exact tools to set the powder, don’t worry, “a bit of translucent powder on a cotton bud to set the liner works just as well,” says Quinn.