Eye Makeup Techniques

Eye Makeup Tricks: A Must-Know

Eye makeup, while the most intricate and time-consuming part of makeup application, can be truly transformative. Over time, experimenting with makeup has led me to discover some handy techniques that are great time-savers, particularly for those days when you’re crunched for time but still want to look polished.

Here are a few of my favorite tricks that will not only expedite your makeup routine but also help you channel your inner makeup artist.

Line and Curl

As a fervent believer in the power of curled lashes, I can attest to the significant impact they have on enhancing your overall appearance. This passion for curled lashes paved the way for mastering a two-in-one technique that allows you to line your eyes while curling your lashes. It results in a soft, smudged look, perfect for daytime wear.

All you need is a pair of lash curlers and a soft eye pencil – your regular one will do just fine as long as it glides on easily.

Start by using your eye pencil to draw a line along the edge of your lash curler. Feel free to adjust the thickness of the line to your liking.

Ensure that you’re as close to your lashline as possible, then press the base of the curler against your skin. To ensure the eyeliner is well smudged into your lashline and to aid in curling your lashes, squeeze and release the curler handle multiple times.

And there you have it! You’ve managed to curl and line your lashes simultaneously – it’s as simple as that!

The way your lash curler rests against your eyes is crucial, so if there are any gaps, just use your brush to smudge and fill in the color. I’ve always found success with either the Kevyn Aucoin lash curler or the Shu Uemura lash curler (available at select department stores), as both have the ideal curve to accommodate most eye shapes.

THICKEN YOUR LASHES

If you’re a fan of lush, voluminous lashes but lack the time to apply multiple coats of mascara or fuss with false lashes, then this technique is tailor-made for you! It’s called the powder method, and it enables you to attain lash thickness equivalent to 3-4 coats of mascara with just two applications.

All you need is your regular mascara and loose face powder (ideally mineral powder, as its finely milled texture prevents clumping).

First, curl your lashes (for this example, I’ll maintain the line from the Line and Curl method to demonstrate the full impact). Then, apply a single coat of your mascara.

Next, using a small fluffy brush, gently dust some loose mineral powder over your lashes. Be sure to avoid getting any powder in your eyes.

Follow up with your second coat of mascara and observe as each lash thickens right before your eyes.

Applying the powder when the first coat of mascara is still moist helps it adhere to the lashes and absorb into them. Thus, when you apply the second coat, it amplifies the volume more than if you were to apply it over your natural lashes.

PERFECT LINE, EVERY TIME

 using cards, tape or sticky notes

While some of you may already be familiar with this widely-known hack, I couldn’t resist including it because it’s fail-proof. Getting a flawless edge or line (and ensuring both eyes match!) can be challenging unless you’ve mastered the placement of your eyeshadow or liquid liner. However, having a guide to follow can help you achieve a perfect finish in mere minutes.

What you’ll need: Eyeshadow or liquid/gel liner, depending on your preference. Also, a credit or business card, white tape, or a sticky note will do the trick.

With Eyeshadow:

Position the card (or tape or sticky note) from the outer corner of your eye, extending towards the end of your eyebrow. Start by applying your eyeshadow against the edge of the card and then blend the remaining product on your brush towards the center of your eye. This technique not only gives you a flawless line but also creates a gradient smokey effect. If you prefer a softer look, simply use a clean brush to buff the edges until the line softens.

With Liquid or Gel Liner:

Once more, position the card (or tape or sticky note) starting from the outer corner of your eye and extending towards the end of your eyebrow. Apply your choice of liquid or gel liner, beginning from the outer edge of your eye and moving upwards along the edge of the card. You can lengthen the line to your desired length. Then, starting from where you ended the line, draw back towards the upper lash line to complete the look.

If you decide to use tape for this technique, ensure it’s the translucent (cloudy) white variety. Cut a piece and attach it to the back of your hand first, repeatedly sticking and peeling it off a few times to reduce its adhesiveness. The skin around the eyes is extremely delicate, so be cautious not to tug at it when removing the tape.

And there you have it – three simple and quick hacks to enhance your eye makeup application. I’ll keep sharing more makeup tips in the future, so don’t forget to check back regularly 😉

FAQ: Eye Makeup Tutorial

How to Do Eye Makeup Step by Step?

Creating a flawless eye makeup look involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

  1. Prep Your Eyes:

    • Primer: Apply an eye primer or concealer on your eyelids to create a smooth base and help the eyeshadow last longer and prevent creasing.
  2. Set the Base:

    • Base Color: Apply a neutral or skin-toned eyeshadow over your entire lid to set the primer and create a smooth canvas.
  3. Define the Crease:

    • Transition Shade: Use a transition shade slightly darker than your skin tone in the crease. This helps in blending other colors more seamlessly. Use a fluffy blending brush to apply and blend the shade back and forth in the crease area.
  4. Apply Lid Color:

    • Lid Shade: Choose a main eyeshadow color for your lids. Pat this color onto the lid with a flat shader brush. For better results, build up the intensity by layering the color.
  5. Deepen the Outer Corner:

    • Outer V: Apply a darker shade to the outer corner of your eyes (outer V) to add depth and dimension. Use a smaller blending brush and blend it well into the crease and the lid.
  6. Highlight:

    • Inner Corner: Apply a light, shimmery shade to the inner corners of your eyes to brighten them.
    • Brow Bone: Apply a light shade just below the brow bone to highlight and lift your brows.
  7. Eyeliner:

    • Upper Lash Line: Apply eyeliner along your upper lash line. You can use a pencil, gel, or liquid liner depending on your preference. For a more dramatic look, create a winged eyeliner.
    • Lower Lash Line: Lightly smudge a shadow or liner along the lower lash line for added definition.
  8. Mascara:

    • Curl Lashes: Curl your lashes with an eyelash curler.
    • Apply Mascara: Apply mascara to your upper and lower lashes for volume and length. Wiggle the wand at the base of your lashes and pull upward.
  9. Finishing Touches:

    • Clean Up: If needed, clean up any fallout or smudges with a makeup wipe or a bit of concealer.

How to Do 3 Color Eyeshadow?

Using three eyeshadow colors can create a beautifully blended and multidimensional look. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Choose Your Colors:

    • Light Shade: A light, shimmery or matte shade for highlighting.
    • Medium Shade: A mid-tone color for the main lid.
    • Dark Shade: A dark color for adding depth and dimension.
  2. Prep and Prime:

    • Apply eye primer or concealer to your lids for a smooth base and better longevity.
  3. Apply the Light Shade:

    • Highlight: Apply the lightest shade to the inner corner of your eyes and just below the brow bone to highlight and open up the eyes.
  4. Apply the Medium Shade:

    • Lid Color: Using a flat shader brush, pack the medium shade onto the main part of your eyelid. Blend the edges to ensure there are no harsh lines.
  5. Apply the Dark Shade:

    • Outer V and Crease: Use a small blending brush to apply the darkest shade to the outer corner of your eye (outer V). Blend it into the crease as well. The key is to blend well so that the transition between the colors is smooth.
  6. Blend:

    • Seamless Transition: Go back with a clean blending brush and blend all shades together to eliminate any harsh lines. Blending is crucial for a professional-looking finish.
  7. Eyeliner and Mascara:

    • Apply eyeliner to your upper lash line and optionally to the lower lash line for more definition.
    • Finish with mascara on your upper and lower lashes.

Summary:

How to Do Eye Makeup Step by Step:

  1. Prep: Apply primer or concealer.
  2. Set Base: Use a neutral eyeshadow.
  3. Define Crease: Apply a transition shade.
  4. Lid Color: Pat on the main lid color.
  5. Deepen Outer Corner: Use a darker shade in the outer V.
  6. Highlight: Inner corner and brow bone.
  7. Eyeliner: Apply along upper (and optional lower) lash line.
  8. Mascara: Curl lashes and apply mascara.
  9. Finishing Touches: Clean up any fallout.

How to Do 3 Color Eyeshadow:

  1. Choose Colors: Light for highlight, medium for lid, dark for depth.
  2. Prep and Prime: Apply eye primer.
  3. Light Shade: Highlight inner corner and brow bone.
  4. Medium Shade: Apply to the main lid.
  5. Dark Shade: Apply to the outer V and crease.
  6. Blend: Ensure a seamless transition between colors.
  7. Eyeliner and Mascara: Define eyes and apply mascara.

FAQ: Eyeshadow and Basic Makeup for Beginners

How to Do Eyeshadow Looks for Beginners?

Creating eyeshadow looks as a beginner can be easy and fun with simple steps. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Choose Your Eyeshadow Palette:

    • Select a palette that includes a range of neutral shades (light, medium, and dark) for versatility and ease of blending.
  2. Prep Your Eyes:

    • Primer: Apply an eye primer or concealer to your eyelids to create a smooth base and help the eyeshadow last longer without creasing.
  3. Apply Base Shade:

    • Light Shade: Use a light, neutral shade and apply it all over your eyelid up to the brow bone. This sets the primer and provides a base for other colors.
  4. Add Transition Shade:

    • Medium Shade: Pick a medium-toned color and apply it to the crease of your eyelid using a fluffy blending brush. Blend in a windshield wiper motion to ensure there are no harsh lines.
  5. Deepen the Outer Corner:

    • Dark Shade: Choose a darker shade and apply it to the outer corner of your eyelid (outer V) to add depth. Blend it into the crease slightly to create dimension.
  6. Highlight:

    • Inner Corner and Brow Bone: Use a light, shimmery shade to highlight the inner corners of your eyes and just below the brow bone.
  7. Blend:

    • Ensure all the shades are well-blended together using a clean blending brush for a seamless look.
  8. Eyeliner (Optional):

    • Apply eyeliner along your upper lash line to define your eyes. Beginners might find pencil liners easier to control than liquid or gel liners.
  9. Mascara:

    • Finish with mascara on your upper and lower lashes to add volume and length.

How to Do Basic Makeup Step by Step?

Here’s a simple guide to achieving a basic makeup look for beginners:

  1. Preparation:

    • Cleanse: Start with a clean face to remove any impurities.
    • Moisturize: Apply a moisturizer suitable for your skin type to hydrate and prep your skin.
    • Prime: Use a primer to create an even canvas and help your makeup last longer.
  2. Foundation and Base:

    • Foundation: Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone. Apply it evenly over your face using a beauty sponge, brush, or fingers. Blend well at the hairline and jawline.
    • Concealer: Apply concealer under the eyes, on blemishes, and any redness. Blend thoroughly with a sponge or brush.
  3. Setting Powder:

    • Lightly dust setting powder over your foundation and concealer to set the makeup and reduce shine.
  4. Eyes:

    • Brows: Shape and fill in your eyebrows using a brow pencil, powder, or gel.
    • Eyeshadow: Follow the beginner’s eyeshadow steps mentioned earlier.
    • Eyeliner (Optional): Define your eyes with eyeliner.
    • Mascara: Apply mascara to your upper and lower lashes for added volume and length.
  5. Cheeks:

    • Blush: Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend outward toward your temples for a natural flush.
    • Contour/Bronzer (Optional): Lightly apply bronzer to the hollows of your cheeks, temples, and jawline for added warmth and definition.
    • Highlighter (Optional): Highlight the high points of your face (cheekbones, bridge of the nose, cupid’s bow) for a glowing finish.
  6. Lips:

    • Lip Balm: Start with a hydrating lip balm.
    • Lipstick/Gloss: Apply your chosen lipstick or gloss starting from the center of your lips and blending outward.
  7. Finishing Touches:

    • Setting Spray: Use a setting spray to lock in your makeup and provide a natural finish.
    • Final Check: Make any necessary touch-ups and ensure everything is well blended.

Summary:

How to Do Eyeshadow Looks for Beginners:

  1. Choose Palette: Select neutral shades.
  2. Prep Eyes: Apply primer or concealer.
  3. Base Shade: Apply a light shade all over the lid.
  4. Transition Shade: Apply a medium shade to the crease.
  5. Outer Corner: Add a dark shade to the outer V.
  6. Highlight: Use a light shade on the inner corners and brow bone.
  7. Blend: Ensure all colors are seamlessly blended.
  8. Eyeliner (Optional): Apply along the upper lash line.
  9. Mascara: Apply to upper and lower lashes.

How to Do Basic Makeup Step by Step:

  1. Preparation: Cleanse, moisturize, prime.
  2. Foundation/Base: Apply foundation, blend concealer.
  3. Setting Powder: Lightly dust to set the base.
  4. Eyes: Shape brows, apply eyeshadow, optional eyeliner, and mascara.
  5. Cheeks: Apply blush, optional contour/bronzer, and highlighter.
  6. Lips: Hydrate with lip balm, apply lipstick/gloss.
  7. Finishing Touches: Use setting spray and do a final check.

FAQ: Smokey Eye Makeup Tutorial and Eye Makeup for Brown Eyes

How to Do Smokey Eye Makeup Step by Step?

Creating a classic smokey eye look involves blending dark colors seamlessly for a sultry, dramatic effect. Here’s how to achieve it:

  1. Prep Your Eyes:

    • Primer: Apply an eye primer or concealer to your eyelids to create a smooth base and help the eyeshadow last longer without creasing.
  2. Base Shade:

    • Neutral Base: Apply a neutral or light shade over your entire lid up to the brow bone to set the primer and provide a base for the other colors.
  3. Transition Shade:

    • Medium-Tone Shade: Use a medium-toned brown or taupe in the crease area with a fluffy blending brush. Blend in windshield wiper motions to avoid harsh lines. This will help transition the darker shades into your skin tone more smoothly.
  4. Lid Color:

    • Dark Shade: Apply a dark eyeshadow (black, charcoal, or deep brown) on your eyelid, focusing on the outer two-thirds. Use a flat shader brush to pack on the color and blend it slightly into the crease.
  5. Blend:

    • Smokey Effect: Use a clean blending brush to blend the dark shade into the transition shade. Work in small circular motions to soften the edges and create a gradient effect.
  6. Deepen the Outer Corner:

    • Intensify: Add a bit more of the dark shadow to the outer V of your eye for added depth. Blend well to ensure there are no harsh lines.
  7. Highlight:

    • Inner Corners and Brow Bone: Apply a light, shimmery eyeshadow to the inner corners of your eyes and just below the brow bone to lift and brighten the look.
  8. Lower Lash Line:

    • Smudge Shadow: Apply the same dark eyeshadow along the lower lash line using a small, precise brush. Blend it out with the medium-toned shade for a cohesive look.
  9. Eyeliner:

    • Line Eyes: Apply black eyeliner to your upper lash line and waterline. For a more intense look, smudge it slightly with a pencil brush.
  10. Mascara:

    • Finish Up: Apply mascara to your upper and lower lashes for volume and length. Consider adding false lashes for extra drama.
  11. Final Touches:

    • Clean up any fallout with a makeup wipe or a bit of concealer for a crisp finish.

Eye Makeup Tutorial for Brown Eyes

Brown eyes are incredibly versatile, and many colors can enhance their natural beauty. Here’s a simple tutorial tailored to make brown eyes pop:

  1. Prep Your Eyes:

    • Primer: Start with an eye primer or concealer to create a smooth base and help the eyeshadow adhere better.
  2. Choose Your Colors:

    • Warm Tones: Shades like gold, bronze, copper, and warm browns complement brown eyes beautifully.
    • Cool Tones: Purples, blues, and greens can contrast nicely and make brown eyes stand out.
  3. Base Shade:

    • Neutral Base: Apply a neutral shade (like a beige or soft brown) all over the lid to set the primer and create a smooth canvas.
  4. Transition Shade:

    • Medium-Tone Shade: Apply a medium-toned warm brown in the crease with a fluffy blending brush to add dimension.
  5. Lid Color:

    • Main Shade: Apply a shimmery gold or bronze shade to the main part of your eyelid using a flat shader brush. Pat the color on for better pigmentation.
  6. Outer Corner:

    • Depth: Apply a darker shade, such as a deep brown or copper, to the outer V of your eye. Blend it into the crease and the lid for a seamless transition.
  7. Lower Lash Line:

    • Smudge Shadow: Use the same medium-toned shade and apply it along the lower lash line. Add a touch of the darker shade to the outer part of the lower lash line for added depth.
  8. Highlight:

    • Inner Corners and Brow Bone: Use a light, shimmery color to highlight the inner corners of your eyes and just below the brow bone.
  9. Eyeliner:

    • Define Eyes: Apply a brown or black eyeliner to your upper lash line. For a softer look, use brown; for more intensity, go with black.
  10. Mascara:

    • Finish Up: Apply mascara to your upper and lower lashes. Consider using a volumizing formula to make your eyes stand out more.

Summary:

How to Do Smokey Eye Makeup:

  1. Prep: Apply primer.
  2. Base Shade: Use a neutral base all over the lid.
  3. Transition Shade: Apply a medium-tone shade to the crease.
  4. Lid Color: Apply a dark shade to the outer two-thirds of the lid.
  5. Blend: Blend the dark shade into the transition shade.
  6. Deepen Outer Corner: Intensify the outer V with more dark shadow.
  7. Highlight: Apply a light shade to inner corners and brow bone.
  8. Lower Lash Line: Smudge dark shadow along the lower lash line.
  9. Eyeliner: Line upper lash line and waterline.
  10. Mascara: Apply mascara to upper and lower lashes.
  11. Final Touches: Clean up any fallout.

Eye Makeup for Brown Eyes:

  1. Prep: Apply primer.
  2. Choose Colors: Warm tones (gold, bronze) or cool tones (purple, green).
  3. Base Shade: Apply a neutral shade all over the lid.
  4. Transition Shade: Apply a medium-tone warm brown to the crease.
  5. Lid Color: Apply a shimmery gold or bronze to the lid.
  6. Outer Corner: Add a deeper shade to the outer V.
  7. Lower Lash Line: Smudge medium-toned shade, add depth with darker shade.
  8. Highlight: Highlight inner corners and brow bone.
  9. Eyeliner: Apply brown or black eyeliner to the upper lash line.
  10. Mascara: Apply mascara to upper and lower lashes.

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