Smokey eye: indispensable products and tips

What is a smokey eye finish and why choose it?

The classic smokey eye look is timeless and never goes out of fashion. Seductive, intense and versatile, this smokey eye makeup look can be adapted to nighttime events and softer daytime looks. If you want to master this technique, here are the keys and the best tips for a professional finish.

Essential products for a perfect smokey eye look

• Eye primer: applying primer before eyeshadow will help to set the makeup. Furthermore, it boosts the colours and avoids the eyeshadow from cracking on your eyelids. 
• Darker shade eyeshadow: the basic thing is to use a black, grey, brown or nude colour range. These colours create depth and blend easily.
• Creamy eye pencil: a black or brown pencil defines the lines of our eyelashes and serves as the base to enhance the smokey effect.
• Brushes to spread: using soft, round brushes is advisable to form smooth transitions between colours.
• Mascara: a smokey eye look isn't a smokey eye look without thick, well-defined eyelashes that frame your eyes.

How to apply makeup for a smokey eye look step by step

1. Start off with lighter shades. Apply some beige or nude eyeshadow over all your eyelid as a foundation. This will help you fade the darker shades.
2. Build up the colour bit by bit. Start off with a medium shade in the crease of your eye and deepen it with darker shades towards the outside.
3. Spread it well. The secret to the smokey eye look is to spread and fade the eyeshadow well. Make gentle, circular movements to avoid defined lines.
4. Don’t forget your bottom line. Apply some eyeshadow or eye liner under your bottom eyelashes and fade it to integrate the lower part and balance the look.
5. Highlight the corner of your eye and arch of your eyebrows. A touch of pale eyeshadow or highlighter in these area opens up your look and contrasts with the eyeshadow.

Tips for a long-lasting smokey eye look

1. Prepare your skin properly. Before applying your eye primer, make sure your skin is clean and free from any oil. You can use a mild cleanser and a little tonic to balance the area.
2. Use water resistant products. Choose waterproof eye pencils, mascara and liners. This will prevent your makeup from staining the foundation with sweat or moisture.
3. Apply eyeshadow in layers. Instead of applying a thick layer of eyeshadow once only, build it up in thin layers. This improves adherence and avoids creases.
4. Seal it with translucent sealing powder. After applying the eyeshadow, we recommend applying a small amount of translucent sealing powder over your eyelid using a brush to seal the colour without altering the finish.
5. Set the makeup. Finish your look with a setting spray. This helps to keep your makeup in place, including eyeshadow, making it last all day or night.
6. Avoid touching your eyes. Even though it might seem obvious, makeup can deteriorate through constant rubbing. Try not to rub your eyes or hold your head in your hands.