Can Eye Shadow Primer Be Used on Oily Skin?

Use a primer to keep your shadow in place.

Photo: Thinkstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images

If you're sick of your eye shadow creasing, smudging and disappearing hours after you've applied it, an eye shadow primer is exactly what you need. Primers sop up oils and create a smooth surface for your shadow to stick to. Oils in the skin are the main reason that makeup doesn't stay in place, so if you have oily skin, you not only can use shadow primer, but you probably should be using it.

How to Use It

Using eye shadow primer is pretty simple. Just take a small amount and slick it onto your eyelids. Let it dry, and you're all set. Go ahead and apply your eye makeup and then you can go on about your business. Your shadow will stay put way longer than it did before.

Try Oil-Free Primer

If your lids are over-the-top oily, and you're concerned about a primer damaging your skin, just pick an oil-free one. It will work in exactly the same way as any other primer, except it won't cause any type of irritation or breakouts. Oil-free primers are also ideal for ladies with sensitive and acne-prone skin.

Try a Mattifying Cream

If oil-free primer doesn't suit you, or your makeup is still doing a disappearing act, try a mattifying cream. Mattifying creams stop oil before it even starts, so your lids have much more of a fighting chance of keeping that shadow on. All you need is a tiny dab of the cream on your eyes to do the trick. Find mattifying creams at drugstores and makeup supply stores.

One Last Tip

Between oil-free formulas and mattifying creams, you should be able to find a primer that works for your oily skin. If you're still a little bit concerned, get yourself a pack of blotting sheets. Blotting sheets absorb oils on the skin without disturbing your makeup. Just slip a tiny container of them in your handbag and use as needed.

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