Monsoon brings with it the soothing sound of rainfall, lush greenery, and much-needed respite from the summer heat. But along with the romance of the rains comes the challenge of keeping your makeup intact—especially your eye makeup. One of the most common beauty issues during the monsoon season is mascara smudging. The increased humidity, unexpected rain showers, and sweaty skin can all lead to smears, flakes, or dreaded raccoon eyes.
However, with a few practical tweaks to your beauty routine, you can enjoy monsoon without compromising on flawless lashes. Here’s how to make your mascara truly smudge-proof, even in the wettest weather.
Start With a Clean Base
The key to smudge-proof makeup lies in preparation. Before applying any makeup products, cleanse your face thoroughly to remove oil, sweat, or leftover makeup. Follow this with a lightweight moisturiser and an eye primer to ensure your makeup adheres better. Avoid using heavy eye creams during the day, as they can cause your mascara to transfer onto the skin more easily.
Choose the Right Mascara Formula
When humidity levels are high, a water-resistant or waterproof mascara becomes your best friend. These formulas are designed to withstand moisture without flaking or smudging. If you’re looking for a dependable option, try Essence mascara, known for its long-wearing and smudge-resistant formula. It’s perfect for the monsoon season and doesn’t feel heavy on the lashes.
Curl Your Lashes Before Application
Using an eyelash curler lifts your lashes and helps prevent them from touching the skin around your eyes, reducing the chances of smudging. Always curl your lashes before applying mascara—not after—to avoid breakage or clumping.
Apply in Thin Layers
It’s tempting to go all in for thick, voluminous lashes, but applying too many coats can lead to clumps that flake or smudge throughout the day. Instead, apply mascara in thin, even layers. Allow each coat to dry for a few seconds before adding another. This not only gives you better control but also prevents the product from transferring to your lids or under-eyes.
Set It With Powder
After you’ve applied your eye makeup, take a small fluffy brush and lightly dust some translucent setting powder under your eyes and along your eyelids. This absorbs excess moisture and oil, acting as a barrier against mascara smudges. You can also use a blotting paper throughout the day to touch up oily areas without disturbing your makeup.
Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
During the monsoon, your eyes might feel more irritated due to humidity or allergens. Make a conscious effort not to rub them, as this can not only ruin your mascara but also increase the risk of irritation or infection. If your eyes tend to water often, keep a soft tissue handy and gently dab instead of wiping.
Touch Up As Needed
Even the most long-lasting mascara might need a little maintenance in extreme weather. Carry a small makeup pouch with essentials like cotton buds, tissues, and your favourite monsoon-proof makeup products for quick touch-ups throughout the day.
Final Thoughts
With the right technique and products, smudge-proof mascara during monsoon is not only possible—it’s easy to achieve. Prioritise quality formulations, like Essence mascara, and follow a few simple prep and setting steps to enjoy bold, fluttery lashes all season long. Rain or shine, your eye makeup can stay as fresh as your mood.