Kajal—or kohl—is a makeup staple for many, cherished for its ability to define the eyes and add instant depth, drama, or softness depending on how it’s applied. But as temperatures rise, keeping kajal in place without smudging, melting, or creasing can become a daily battle.
Warm weather, humidity, sweat and oil can all conspire to turn your sharp lines into raccoon eyes within hours. Whether you wear it daily or only for special occasions, there’s nothing more frustrating than seeing your well-blended kajal smudge beyond recognition before lunch.
But don’t worry—with the right techniques and product choices, you can absolutely wear kajal in the summer without sacrificing comfort or style. This guide will walk you through exactly how to apply kajal for long-lasting, smudge-free results, along with five professional tips to help your eyes stay defined and fresh throughout the day.
Why Kajal Smudges More in Summer
To beat the problem, it helps to understand why kajal doesn’t always cooperate in hot weather.
- Heat and sweat increase oil production around the eyes.
- Humidity softens the wax in kajal pencils, making them more prone to smudging.
- The skin around the eyes is naturally more delicate, making it harder for products to stay put.
The goal isn’t necessarily to switch from Kajal to another product—it’s to apply it smarter, using tricks that makeup artists swear by to keep it from melting off your waterline or lid.
5 Smudge-Free Kajal Tips for Summer
1. Prep Your Eyes Like a Pro
The first step to keeping your kajal from smudging is starting with a clean, dry base. Just like you prep your skin before foundation, prepping your eyelids and under-eye area is essential for eye makeup longevity.
How to Prep:
- Gently cleanse your eye area to remove any oil or leftover skincare.
- Apply a lightweight, oil-free eye cream if needed, and give it time to absorb.
- Dust a small amount of translucent setting powder around the lash line and lids to absorb oil and create a smooth canvas.
If you have oily lids, an eyeshadow primer (yes, even if you’re only applying kajal) can do wonders for preventing smudging and creasing.
Pro Tip: Avoid applying foundation or heavy concealer too close to the lash line—it can mix with your kajal and cause it to smear faster.
2. Choose the Right Kajal Formula
Not all kajals are made equal. In summer, it’s crucial to choose a long-wearing, waterproof formula specifically designed to resist smudging.
Look for:
- Kajal is labelled waterproof or smudge-proof
- Gel or wax-based formulas that set quickly
- Pencils that glide on smoothly but dry to a matte or powdery finish
Avoid overly creamy formulas unless you plan to set them with powder (more on that below). You can also try kajal sticks with built-in smudgers, which allow you to soften the line without risking a mess later on.
Pro Tip: If you love your current kajal but it smudges easily, layer a matching black or brown eyeshadow over it to lock it in place.
3. Master the Right Application Technique
Applying kajal in the summer requires a slightly different approach. The goal is to create da definition without layering too heavily, which increases the chance of smearing.
Here’s How to Apply Kajal for a Smudge-Free Look:
- Tightline your upper lash line: Gently lift your upper lid and apply kajal between your lashes. This makes your lashes look thicker without visible eyeliner.
- Apply to the lower waterline: Use light pressure and short strokes. One layer is enough.
- Optional: Line the outer third of your lower lash line, just below the waterline, and blend with a tiny brush or cotton bud for a soft smoky effect.
- Set with powder: Lightly dab a matching eyeshadow (black, brown or charcoal) on top of the kajal to seal it in place.
Less is more in the heat. If you want a more intense look, build in layers, giving each one time to set before adding more.
Pro Tip: Avoid lining all the way around the eyes unless it’s for an evening look. A full rim can close off the eyes and smudge more easily.
4. Blot and Powder Throughout the Day
Even with the best prep and product, natural oils and sweat can still build up, especially if you’re out and about or commuting. Keep blotting paper or oil-control sheets in your bag for quick touch-ups.
Quick Fixes:
- Gently blot around the eye area (not directly on the kajal) to remove excess oil.
- If you notice any smudging, use a cotton bud with a bit of micellar water to clean it up, then reapply lightly.
- Reapply translucent powder if needed around the eye socket to keep everything dry and locked in.
Pro Tip: If your kajal tends to smudge in the outer corners, try tapering the line inward and stopping before you reach the very edge of your lash line.
5. Try Layering with Gel or Eyeshadow for Extra Hold
This is the trick many makeup artists use backstage and on set. After applying your kajal, go in with a gel liner or eyeshadow in a matching colour to intensify and set the look.
How to Do It:
Apply kajal as usual.
- Take a small angled brush and dip it into gel liner or powder eyeshadow.
- Press it gently over the kajal line—this will create a seal and reduce transfer.
- You can also use this method to create a soft, smoky eye by blending slightly outward from the lower lash line with a pencil brush.
- Pro Tip: To prevent panda eyes, don’t forget your lower lashes—apply a waterproof mascara only to the top lashes if needed to reduce the risk of under-eye smudging.
Kajal Can Be Summer-Ready
Wearing kajal in summer doesn’t have to be a smudgy disaster. With the right preparation, a waterproof formula, strategic application and a few touch-up tricks, you can enjoy beautifully defined eyes from morning till night—even in the heat.
Whether you’re going for an understated everyday look or something more sultry for evenings, the key is to apply with intention and set with precision. And don’t forget: the best accessory to any eye look is your confidence.