How to stop sunglasses ruining makeup, according to experts

Tess Daley pictured at Wimbledon with sunglasses on and a white lacy dress — (Image credit: Getty Images)

For all the feel-good benefits of bright summer days, there’s one beauty dilemma that never seems to go away – how to stop sunglasses ruining your makeup.

It's the same old summer tale: you meticulously apply your makeup in the morning (primer and all), only to slip on your sunglasses and discover, an hour later, two tell-tale foundation marks either side of your nose. Frustrating? Absolutely. Preventable? According to beauty experts, quite possibly.

"When the temperatures rise, it can feel like there's an extra layer of maintenance," says Annabelle Taurua, beauty expert at Fresha. "From carrying a fan to blotting paper, sunglasses or a sun hat, keeping your makeup in check over summer can feel like a full-time job."

1. Create a barrier with loose powder

If your best lightweight foundation always transfers onto your sunglasses, a little strategic powder could help. Rather than dusting it all over your face, Taurua recommends concentrating on the areas where your sunglasses make contact with your skin.

"Applying a small amount of loose setting powder can be a simple trick to stop this from happening," she says. "Apply it to the bridge of your nose and the inner frame of your glasses. This creates a barrier, absorbs excess oil and stops makeup transfer."

For best results, use a powder puff or beauty sponge to gently press the powder into the skin, rather than sweeping it on with a brush. Taurua also recommends spritzing your setting spray onto skin before applying powder to create an even longer-lasting finish.

2. Give your sunglasses a quick clean

Your makeup might not be the only culprit. Throughout the day, your sunglasses naturally collect oil, skincare residue and sweat, all of which can transfer back onto freshly applied makeup the next time you wear them.

"It's also important to clean your sunglasses before every use, as oil from your skin can easily transfer and can break down makeup and cause further marks on your skin," says Taurua. "Salt and sand, depending on your location, can also be an added irritant."

A quick wipe of the nose pads and inner frames with anti-bac before you head out can help minimise makeup transfer, while also keeping your sunglasses more hygienic during the warmer months.

3. Check the fit of your frames

If you constantly find yourself pushing your sunglasses back up your nose, the issue may have less to do with your makeup and more to do with the fit of your frames. The more movement and pressure there is, the more likely your foundation is to shift.

"Well-fitting sunglasses can also make a big difference," Taurua explains. "If the pads fit too tightly, they'll press into your face and make it feel uncomfortable. The same applies if you find yourself pushing your glasses up frequently."

The good news is that you don't necessarily need a new pair. Most opticians can adjust the fit of your sunglasses, even if you didn't buy them there, helping them sit more comfortably – and with a little less disruption to your base.

Emma Stoddart is a freelance beauty journalist and self-confessed skincare aficionado with over five years’ industry experience. Emma has worked for some of the UK’s top women’s titles including Net-A-Porter, Stylist and Grazia. Her experience spans online and print as well as producing editorial shoots with some of the industry’s biggest artists, including Val Garland. Asides from working with them behind the scenes, she’s also had the chance to interview the likes of Patrick Ta, Pat McGrath, and Sam McKnight for all their insider tips and tricks.