How to Prevent Sunglasses From Smudging Your Foundation

How to Stop Your Sunglasses From Ruining Your Foundation

Tip #1: Start With Primer

Sunglasses lifting up foundation is a common problem, largely because of the friction between sunglasses and foundation. “The plastic or metal from the frame applies pressure that can cause disruption in your look,” says Gene. Thankfully, there are a few makeup tricks to help your look stay put. The first step? Applying a thin layer of foundation primer to ensure smooth and long-lasting application. One of our favorites is the NYX Professional Makeup Plump Right Back Primer + Serum, which grips your  makeup for long-lasting, non-cakey wear all day. Pay special attention to your nose area: It’ll help the foundation grip to your skin.

Tip #2: Spray Your Sponge With Setting Spray

If you like to apply your foundation with a makeup sponge, make sure to get it prepped and ready beforehand. “Once the sponge is damp, try spraying it with a setting spray before adding foundation,” says Gene. “This helps the foundation adhere better to the skin, which should prevent some interruption throughout the day.” In need of a great setting spray that will help your makeup stay put, even in extreme heat and humidity? Try the Urban Decay All Nighter Waterproof Makeup Setting Spray. 

Tip #3: Apply Foundation

Armed with your damp beauty sponge, apply your foundation as normal. If you typically opt for a glowy formula, you may want to switch to a matte finish, like the Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte and Poreless Liquid Foundation, for summer. “Matte or long-lasting foundations are ideal to prevent makeup from moving or shifting throughout the day,” says Gene. “I would steer away from dewy foundations, as they are a tad more lightweight.”

Tip #4: Set With Translucent Powder

This is hands-down the most important step when it comes to preventing your sunglasses from lifting your foundation. “Applying powder will help fight against humidity, which is one of the causes for disruption,” says Gene. “When applying the powder to the skin, gently press it into the foundation with a poof or makeup sponge — this technique will apply more powder to the skin than a brush.” The TikTok-viral powder puff foundation hack below can help give any foundation a flawless, filter-like finish. 

Tip #5: Clean Up Throughout the Day

If you’ve followed all of Gene’s tips and tricks up to this point, your makeup should hold up even when wearing sunglasses. But, if you do notice a bit of smudging, fix up the area with foundation, not concealer. “Simply reapply your foundation in that area and then set with your translucent powder using the same technique,” says Gene. “Applying concealer directly to powdered skin can create a weird texture, so I only suggest using a concealer if the majority of the makeup has diminished.”