5 Tips To Keep Eyeshadow From Creasing, According To A Master Makeup Artist

Eyeshadow creasing is a dilemma that makeup users have been trying to solve since eyeshadow was created. If you've ever spent time perfecting your eye look only to see it settle into fine lines or smudge by midday, you're not alone. Thankfully our founder and master makeup artist, Rose-Marie Swift has dealt with her fair share of eyeshadow creasing in her 40+ year career and she's sharing all her tips on how to prevent itt. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover her essential tips, product recommendations, and actionable advice to help you maintain flawless eye makeup.

Why Does Eyeshadow Crease?

Eyeshadow creasing happens primarily due to excess oil on the eyelids. When the natural oils from your skin mix with powder or cream eyeshadows, it can break down the product, causing it to gather in the eyelid’s creases.

"Our eyelids are one of the most active parts of our face,” explains Rose-Marie Swift. “Blinking, natural oils, and even the weather can all contribute to eyeshadow not staying in place. The key is proper preparation and the right products.”

Other factors that contribute to creasing include:

• Using eyeshadow without primer or a setting base

• Applying too much product

• Not setting cream eyeshadows properly

• Hooded or oily eyelids that naturally create friction

How to Prevent Eyeshadow from Creasing 

Here are some expert-approved steps to ensure a long-lasting, crease-free look:

1. Skip Eye Creams

"Stop putting all this eye cream on," advises Rose-Marie. "Avoid eye creams under your makeup products. The eyelid can only absorb so much. If you're putting heavy cream on with a barrier oil such as hyaluronic acid, silicones, or synthetic sunscreen, you're asking for creasing."

Why Eye Creams Cause Creasing:

The skin on your eyelids is much thinner and more sensitive than other areas of your face. When you apply thick, occlusive creams, they sit on the surface instead of being absorbed, creating a slippery base that leads to creasing.

What to Do Instead:

• Use Your Face Lotion: If your lids are extra dry, just apply some of your regular face lotion and allow it to dry completely before applying your eyeshadow.
• Save Your Eye Cream For Overnight: Apply your eye creams before bed, not before akeup.
• Skip Altogether: Rose-Marie emphasizes that less is more when it comes to the delicate eyelid area.

2. Apply Eyeshadow with a Firm Blending Technique

Application technique matters just as much as the products you use. While normally Rose-Marie is all about using your fingers to blend, when you're trying to avoid eyeshadow creasing, she likes to "Blend it in with a firm stroke. That way you're adhering it to the skin better."

How to Apply Eyeshadow Properly:

• Use a firm, dense brush like the Eye Polish Brush to press the product into your lids.
• Avoid sweeping motions that can cause patchy application.
• Focus on blending with clean strokes for a seamless look.

3. Minimal Primer If Needed 

"The less on the eyelid, the better," says Rose-Marie. "If you need, you can use a little bit of a primer if you have to. Our primer works nicely if you want to add that in."

Tips for Keeping It Simple:

• Skip Layers: Avoid piling on multiple products.
• Primer Only If Necessary: ReEvolve Primer is a great clean option if you need extra longevity.
• Avoid Heavy Formulas: Stick to lightweight, clean beauty products that won't weigh down your eyelids.

4. Be Cautious with Setting Powders and Sprays

"You have to be cautious of spray setting powders or setting lotions," warns Rose-Marie. "Most of them contain alcohol, and you don’t want to dry out your lid or sting your eye with chemicals."

What to Use Instead:

If you feel like you need to "set" your eyeshadow in place, gently pat a little Hydra Setting Powder between layers of shadow. 

5. Avoid Waterproof Formulas

While waterproof products may seem like a quick fix to prevent creasing, Rose-Marie cautions against their long-term use.

"Yes, waterproof products will stop creasing, but do you want to stop a crease for a very temporary situation or would you rather avoid ending up with dried-up, crepey eyelids?"

Why Skip Waterproof Formulas:

• Drying Effects: Waterproof formulas often contain drying agents that can damage the delicate eyelid skin over time.
• Difficult Removal: They require harsher cleansers that may lead to irritation.

Alternative Solution:

Choose hydrating, crease-resistant formulas like Eyelights Cream Eyeshadow (it lasts 8 hours!) or RMS Eye Polish for a luminous, long-wearing finish without the damage.

How To Prevent Eyeshadow Creasing On Oily Lids

Here’s a refreshing perspective from Rose-Marie: "The simple answer to prevent your eyeshadow from creasing if you have oily lids? Don't! Embrace your oily lids—it's a blessing in disguise. You won't have dried-up, crepey eyelids when you're 35!"

How to Manage Oily Lids:

• Touch Up: When you notice creasing, simply use your finger to smooth out the eyeshadow.
• Keep Blotting Papers Handy: Absorb excess oil without disrupting your makeup.

Final Thoughts

Preventing eyeshadow creasing doesn't have to be complicated. By following these expert tips from Rose-Marie Swift and focusing on minimalist, clean beauty products, you can achieve a beautiful, long-lasting eye look.

Ready to elevate your eyeshadow game? Explore our RMS Eye Products for crease-resistant, clean beauty solutions. Now make sure you also know how to prevent mascara from smudging to complete your fail-proof eye routine. 

For more application tips or the best shades of eyeshadow for your skin tone, Book a free Artist Advice consultation to chat with a makeup artist for a personalized recommendation.