Understanding how makeup interacts with glasses can enhance confidence and comfort. And discussing makeup with patients can add an uplifting element to frame selection or eye health consultations. Dr Jacqueline Beltz, an ophthalmologist and the founder of OKKIYO make up and skincare products; and Gem Woods, a Hair and Make-up artist from Melbourne explain.
By offering practical tips, optometrists and ophthalmologists can support their patients in looking and feeling their best while maintaining eye health.
Spectacles make the eyes a focal point, and the right makeup application ensures a polished look. Lenses can magnify (plus) or shrink (minus) the eyes, so blending soft shadow outward creates balance.
Complementary shades enhance eye colour: violets, coppers, and reds for green eyes; peach, bronze, or orange for blue eyes; and purples, greys, or silvers for brown eyes. Cream eyeshadows are long-lasting, easy to apply, and less likely to drop particles into the eyes.
Mascara Matters
Mascara completes a makeup look, and curling lashes helps frame the eyes. Choosing a brush that evenly fans out lashes ensures separation, while a formulation that prevents clumping or smudging is key – especially when eyes are magnified behind lenses. Prioriteyes mascara by OKKIYO is ideal for those with dry eye, allergies, or blepharitis while also offering professional-level definition. Lower lashes may not always need mascara; a neutral shadow can provide subtle definition instead.
Dr Jacqueline Beltz is an ophthalmologist and the founder of OKKIYO.
Balancing the Look
A light highlight on the brow bone or centre of the eyelid brightens and enhances the eyes. Brightening concealer counteracts frame shadows, while lightly applied foundation or concealer around nose pads, set with powder, minimises marks.
If bold eye makeup isn’t preferred, a statement lip can shift the focus. Lip liner two shades darker than natural, paired with gloss, defines lips effortlessly. Well-groomed brows balance a spectacle frame.
Blush placement depends on frame size: for smaller frames, apply to the apples of the cheeks; for larger frames, sweep blush in a C-shape along the cheekbones and temples.
Key Makeup Tips for Glasses Wearers
• Blend eyeshadow outward for balance.
• Curl lashes to prevent lens contact.
• Choose a clump-free, sensitive-eye-friendly mascara.
• Apply brightening concealer under the eyes.
• Use minimal foundation around nose pads, setting with powder.
• Define brows to frame the face.
• Opt for bold lips if eye makeup is minimal.
• Adjust blush placement based on frame size.
These tips help patients enhance their natural beauty while keeping
their eyes comfortable and healthy.
