Makeup application can be quite a handful for most women. Add a pair of glasses into the equation (especially if it’s your first pair of glasses), and applying and maintaining makeup becomes rather tricky… and a bit of a balancing act!
On the other hand, if you’ve worn glasses for decades, you might just consider your glasses a part of you—something that makes you stand out from the crowd. Glasses can be a fun way to show off your personality and uniqueness – and we have the grooviest in town! Because yes, bold frames, bright colours or jewelled details tell the world something about your style. But, wearing glasses does not mean that you should avoid wearing makeup altogether, or suddenly struggle with adding that extra special touch.
As with all new things, it just takes a little practice (and some extra time in front of the mirror) to get used to wearing makeup with glasses. We’ve put together some tips to help ensure your make-up routine is in tip-top-shape, helping you find the right balance between your fabulous frames and your fabulous self.
Our groovy ADVICE…
Groovy Tip 1: Clean your glasses regularly
This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s actually really important to clean your glasses regularly if you want to avoid smudging your makeup. Use a gentle cleanser and a soft cloth to wipe down your lenses and frame—just be careful not to scratch them!
Groovy Tip 2: For those far-sighted Groovers
If you’re far-sighted, you might find that your glasses tend to magnify your features—including any imperfections. In this case, it’s important to focus on creating a smooth base for your makeup. Start with a good primer, and use a foundation or concealer to even out your skin tone. Our top tip? Get an amplification mirror that swivels from supersized to normal. It will improve your makeup skills, and keep application precise. No more smears, smudges, messy liner and gloppy lashes.
Groovy Tip 3: For our near-sighted Groovers
If you’re near-sighted, your glasses might make your features appear smaller. In this case, you might want to focus on creating definition and contouring with makeup. Use a bronzer or blush to add some colour to your cheeks, and use a darker eyeshadow to create depth around your eyes. Our top tip? No matter how luminous and large your real-life eyes are, behind your glasses, they look smaller. Try lining your lower waterline with nude or ivory to open up your eyes even more.
FRAMING your assets…
Groovy Tip 4: Frame colour is quite important
It doesn’t matter if your frame is classic or trendy, choose a colour that looks great on you. Darker colours define and strengthen ageing eyes like instant eyeliner. Softer, lighter colours have a gentle effect and can chisel cheekbones or slim faces, kind of like contour makeup. Sheer or opaque frames can brighten complexions like instant blush. The choices could be overwhelming… No worries – we are here to help.
Groovy Tip 5. It’s a balancing act
If you have thick or heavy frames, you might want to focus on keeping the rest of your makeup fairly light. This will help to avoid overwhelming your features. On the other hand, if you have delicate frames, you can afford to be a little more generous with your makeup.
It’s all in the TECHNIQUE…
Groovy Tip 6. Separate your lashes
One of the keys to successful makeup application with glasses is to make sure your lashes are well-separated. This will help to avoid smudging your lenses, and also give you a more polished look. Use an eyelash curler to curl your lashes before applying mascara, and be careful not to get any product on your lenses. This is especially flattering if you’re near-sighted. Rather than mascaras that lengthen your lashes too much, look for one that separates and defines your lashes instead.
Groovy Tip 7: Brush those brows
If you wear glasses, it’s especially important to make sure your eyebrows are well-groomed. This will help to frame your face and ensure that your features are visible. Use a brow brush or pencil to fill in any sparse areas, and be sure to follow the natural shape of your brows. Brushing your brows upwards helps ensure they show above your glasses.
TOOLS of the trade…
Groovy Tip 8: Use Short-Handled Brushes
Long-handled brushes are great for applying makeup without glasses, but they can be tricky to use when you’re wearing them. Opt for shorter-handled brushes instead, which will give you more control and precision.
Groovy Tip 9: Setting Spray
If you’re worried about your makeup smudging or rubbing off on your glasses, setting spray is your best friend. This will help to keep your makeup in place, and also make it easier to remove at the end of the day.