Problem: Whenever I apply eyeshadow, I always find eyeshadow sprinkles on my cheeks and under-eye area. What am I doing wrong?
Solution: Sprinkles are almost inevitable, but knocking the excess powder off the brush before you apply your eye makeup will help a lot. Some eyeshadows are more powdery than others and cause more sprinkles. Eyeshadows made by M. A.C., Physicians Formula, Shu Uemura, Bobbi Brown, Jane, Estee Lauder, and Dior are more reliable in this respect. Another technique that some makeup artists use is to apply foundation and concealer to the eye area first; then the eyeshadow, liner, and mascara; after that, apply foundation to the rest of the face, touching up the concealer if “drippies” have made a mess of things. Although I find that approach time-consuming, it does help eliminate any trace of stray eyeshadow. Another trick is to apply a bit of loose powder under the eye area. Any excess eyeshadow should fall on this area, and you can brush the mix off when you’re done, leaving a smooth, sheer, powdered finish.