How to do Makeup When You Wear Glasses

For about five years I’ve had “buy reading glasses” on my to-do list. I’ve known for eons that I need them, yet despite getting sore, glassy and bloodshot eyes every time I opened my laptop or a book, I refused. However, a few months ago I finally bought myself a pretty pair of black-rimmed Alex Perry specs (if they’re good enough for Christina Hendrix, they’re good enough for me).

The first thing I noticed – apart from actually being able to see the words on a page – was that applying makeup with glasses can be incredibly frustrating. Sometimes, no matter how much effort you put into your smoky eyed look, it ends up getting stuck in the frames, or smudged across the lenses. Or if it manages to stay put, the shadows glasses create around your eyes can leave you looking like you’ve been punched in the face.

After much experimenting and trial and error, here are some fuss-free tips for creating a makeup look to go with your specs.

Like I said, glasses can create shadows around your eyes, but a light reflecting concealer should do the trick.

– Use waterproof mascara, of course.

– Using a primer specifically for eyes will do wonders for the staying power of your makeup.

– A makeup finishing spray will also help keep everything in place.

– Avoid false eyelashes unless you want muck all over the inside of your glasses.

– If you are blessed with long lashes, curl them and they won’t hit the lenses.

I am yet to find a product that keeps your foundation securely in place around the bridge of your nose (once you take your glasses off, the makeup seems to come off too). If you’ve found one, let me know in the comments!

Don’t believe people who say you should keep your makeup simple just because you wear glasses. Bold eyes can look amazing! Just refrain from putting too much makeup on the lower rim of your eyes; that’s when it can look a bit heavy.

What about you, BWA-ites? Any glasses vs. makeup tips?