Did you know that excess sebum and oil production can happen on any surface of your body, including your eyelids? It’s not necessarily the worst thing in the world; it just means you have oily skin. Often triggered by stress, environmental factors, genetics, and overwashing, oily lids can make it difficult to apply makeup, considering the sebaceous glands make the product fade faster than usual. But fear not! Here’s how to deal with oily eyelids.
Be Specific With Your Soap
First things first: Switch to a gentle facial cleanser and apply only once daily, preferably in the evening. In the morning, simply splash warm water on your face and dab dry. After washing your face, avoid applying products with oil.
Our Pick: Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser (11.99, shop here)
Keep an Eyelid Primer Handy
If you love eyeshadow and eyeliner, add some eyelid primer to your makeup bag. It takes a few seconds to apply and makes all the difference. Bonus: Eyelid primer also prevents creasing, creating a matte, long-lasting look.
Our Pick: Hourglass Veil Eye Primer ($30, shop here)
Carry Blotting Papers With You
Use blotting papers, medicated pads, or tissue paper to dab the eyelids lightly. Do not wipe. A few delicate dabs will rid the eyelids of unwanted oil. A clean toilet seat cover in the bathroom acts as a useful blotting pad!
Our Pick: Tatcha Aburatorigami Japanese Blotting Papers ($14, shop here)
Set Your Makeup With Powder
Lightly dusting a translucent setting powder over your bottom and top eyelids will help absorb any extra oil lingering around. Keep the powder in your purse in case you need a “touch-up.”
Our Pick: Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder ($43, shop here)
Remove All Makeup Before Going to Sleep
Leaving makeup on at night can negatively affect your sebaceous glands. That’s right, makeup residue on your eyelids can cause excess oil production due to irritation. To avoid this occurrence, remove all eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara before bed.
Our Pick: Mary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover ($20, shop here)