There is nothing more frustrating than spending time and effort to do a fine eye make-up in the morning and seeing that it is gone by lunchtime. What's the point of designing perfect cat eyes to see them erased or worn out as soon as you're ready to go out? Luckily, thanks to the quick and easy application of an eye primer, your make-up will stay flawless all day long.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Choosing a Primer
Step 1. Choose the right shade
For daily use, prefer a smoothing base that matches your complexion or is slightly lighter: in this way it will not alter the color of the eyeshadow by adding pigment and, once applied on the eyelid, it will give you an absolutely look. natural.
- If you are making a smokey eye or using a brown eyeshadow, a darker primer will add depth to the look.
- A white base will emphasize a make-up made with various colors.
- You can skip eyeshadow altogether and choose an already pleasantly tinted primer.
- Consider using a concealer primer if you have dark circles or want to brighten your eyes. A base with a touch of yellow or peach will help neutralize the purple and brown tones and the "livid" shadows of dark circles.
- A product with just a little green can reduce the pink or reddish discoloration of the skin.
Step 2. Choose the primer finish
Matte ones are great for everyday use, as they tend to last longer and provide a neutral base to eye makeup. Even if you don't have oily skin, your eyelids tend to always be a bit greasy - the matte finish will help absorb grease and keep your make-up tidy.
- A satin or shimmer finish is best when you don't apply eyeshadow or plan to use a bright one. Keep in mind that this base doesn't last as long as the matte one and that applying a matte eyeshadow over a bright primer will make it look dull.
- If you have very dry skin, try the gel or brightening version.
- Matte primers are suitable for both matte and shimmer eyeshadows; therefore you will get a luminous effect thanks to the makeup, not the base.
- If the weather is hot and humid, go for a matte version, which is particularly effective in keeping grease and shine under control.
Step 3. Choose the consistency of the base
You can find it in gel, cream, stick or liquid form. Your choice will affect the outcome and duration. The gel format is usually more persistent, is suitable for any type of eyeshadow, minimizes imperfections and is particularly suitable in the hot season.
- Cream primers have the texture of a mousse, are the easiest to find, and work with most eyeshadows, but can weigh down your eyelids.
- A liquid base is very light but, if you use too little, it won't hide wrinkles: when you apply it, make sure you get it deeply into the creases of the eyelids.
- The stick bases can be applied directly to the skin, without the need to use your fingers or a brush. They are very affordable, but it can be difficult to gauge how much product to use.
Step 4. Prepare the primer yourself or use a natural alternative if you run out of it
You can replace it with aloe vera gel or with milk of magnesia, odorless and tasteless. Both absorb skin fat and aloe also has a moisturizing effect. Just apply a small amount using a cotton swab, making sure it doesn't get in your eyes. Mix the following ingredients together if you want to make it yourself:
- ½ teaspoon of softened tasteless lip balm (keep it under hot running water for about 1 minute);
- 1 teaspoon of corn starch;
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of liquid foundation, in a color suitable for your skin.
- Mix all the ingredients together in a small bowl.
- You can use some fine petroleum jelly if you don't have lip balm, but keep in mind that it won't have the same strength.
Part 2 of 2: Apply the Primer
Step 1. Cleanse your face and apply a moisturizer
It is essential to start with a clean face, eliminating oil and dirt; the emollient will prevent the makeup from drying out the skin. Wait at least 20 seconds after applying it or until your skin feels dry. The moisturizer that is still wet may interfere with the application of the base.
Step 2. Dab the amount of primer equivalent to a grain of rice onto the back of your hand
You will need to cover your eyelid completely, but be careful not to use too much if you want to avoid any unpleasant consequences: the makeup may clump or appear chalky or shiny. If you use too little, the make-up won't last.
- This amount should be sufficient for both eyes.
- It is always advisable to start with a little product and possibly add some, rather than applying too much and having to remove it. Remember: it's best not to overdo it when it comes to primers.
Step 3. Dip the ring finger or brush into the base and dab it on the eyelid
Be gentle, pat and smooth the product on the skin, do not rub. You can start from the inner corner of the eye or from the center of the eyelid, as you like, then stretch it outwards and upwards.
- One (clean) finger is perfect for base application and most of the time it will be all you need. You can easily check how much product you are using and, thanks to the warmth of the skin, the primer spreads better.
- A make-up brush would penetrate the product into the corners and along the lash line, making the application more even.
- Always be delicate and do not pull the skin around the eye to prevent it from sagging and wrinkles over the years.
- The primer is really effective: it fills the folds of the eyelid so that the make-up does not settle there.
- If you are applying makeup on your lower eyelid, gently pat the product along the lash line with a thin brush or finger.
Step 4. Allow time for the base to absorb and dry (about 20 seconds) before applying eye makeup as you usually do
You should feel the eyelid smooth and the eyeshadow run smoothly. If it appears clotted or clotted, it means that you have applied too much primer and will need to reduce the dose the next time you apply.
