This year has definitely been the year of the “extra” eye look. Graphic shapes? Yes, please. Colorful mascara and eyeliner? Layer it on. Rhinestones, pearls or gems to top it off? Can’t stop, won’t stop bedazzling. 

While you likely know how to keep your eye makeup in place all day (primer and setting spray for the win!), you might not be so sure how to best apply rhinestones or other craft embellishments to your eyes or face and get them to stay put. Keep reading for our step-by-step guide to applying and removing rhinestones or any other type of eye-catching adornment you want to add to your makeup look.

• STEP 1:

  Choose Your Glue

   

  Even if you’re using a rhinestone or gem with adhesive already on it, you’re going to want to use a skin-friendly glue to securely keep it in place. Eyelash glue works well for application, and you likely already have it at home and can easily place it in your bag for touch-ups. If eyelash glue isn’t doing the trick, opt for something stronger like spirit gum (choose one that comes with a remover), an adhesive commonly used to keep prosthetics in place, or an adhesive that’s specifically formulated for the job, like the Mehron Makeup AdGem Adhesive.

   

   

• STEP 2:

  Prep the Area

   

  A clean, dry surface is essential for getting a rhinestone to stick. Either apply a mattifying setting spray to your makeup before application of the gem, or clean the spots you want to apply the embellishments to with a cotton swab dipped in micellar water. 

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• • STEP 3:

    Apply Your Adhesive and Stick on Your Rhinestones

     

    Once skin is dry, apply a small dot of glue on the stone or gem and wait a few seconds for it to get tacky. Use tweezers to apply the stones for precise application. Once on your face, gently press it into skin with a clean finger.

     

     

  • STEP 4:

    Remove Them

     

    If you used eyelash glue for application, the stones and glue should come off easily with a makeup remover like the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water with Vitamin C. Professional-grade adhesives like spirit gum may require the use of the remover that came with them for best results.