For the most part, applying eye makeup appears to be fairly intuitive. That is until you step outside or check Instagram to see how much better you could be. You could watch YouTube tutorials or follow makeup artists, but there are always more insider tricks you can use to improve your eye game. But, before we get into the step-by-step procedure, there are a couple of tricks to ensure the eye makeup lasts.
These are: Choose a high-quality eyeshadow primer and eyeshadow. A good primer, such as Urban Decay’s much-lauded Eyeshadow Primer Potion ($24), can make or break your look. If you use it as a base, your eyeshadow will last through rain, sweat, and even the heaviest use.
In terms of eyeshadows, far too many either barely show up on the lid or fade away after a few hours. If you’ve ever wondered why eyeshadow prices differ, this is the reason. And if you like a particular pigmented shadow, stick with it. Then, have fun experimenting with the various color palettes (and brands) available.
Now that you’ve gathered your tools,
Step 1: Apply Concealer
This first step’s goal is to even out the color of the skin around your eyes. This entails applying concealer and dotting it around (particularly under) your eyes with the pad of your finger or a concealer brush. Congratulate yourself and proceed to the next step if you have flawless, non-bluish skin. If you don’t need concealer under your eyes, don’t use it. It’s a huge mistake that, if done incorrectly, reduces the depth of your face. If you do need concealer, dab three dots under each eye, beginning at the inner corner where the skin is darkest. Another dot should be placed under the pupil, and a third on the outer edge.
Finally, pat the concealer with your ring finger rather than rubbing it in.
Step 2: Prime Your Lids
You prime walls before painting, and you prime your face (or at least your eyes, as some people dislike face primers) before applying makeup. Primer does exactly what it says: it primes the skin, allowing makeup to apply smoothly and last longer. The secret to keeping your eyeshadow in place for hours is to use an eyeshadow primer. It will keep the shadow looking great through almost anything; however, we do not recommend wearing eyeshadow to the gym or while sleeping. Allow your face to breathe.
Step 3: The Actual Shadow
You don’t need convincing why eyeshadow is great at this point. The term “independent” refers to a person who does not work for the government. Stila’s Kitten ($18) is a fan-favorite eyeshadow in this category because it’s subtle but flashy enough to just barely give away that you’re wearing makeup—expect plenty of compliments.
Try a three-toned palette and build from the lids to the brow for more drama. According to celebrity makeup artist Mally Roncal, you should blend them together like a rainbow. Begin by sweeping a light color that almost matches your lid across the lid and up to your brow bone. Then apply a medium color across your lids only. Finally, in the crease, add a darker color and blend like your life depends on it.
Step 4: Highlight the Inner Eye
This is a former makeup artist trick that has only recently gained popularity. However, once you see the results, you’ll want to use them all the time. Blend a small amount of your lightest eyeshadow (or whatever you’re using) into the inner corner of your eye. It will significantly brighten your eyes and even your face. There’s no need for a brush. You can even dab a finger into the shadow and then press it into the inner corner where the upper and lower lids meet.
Step 5: Line the Eyes
You can skip this step if you’re going for a casual daytime look. You can also skip it if your lashes are particularly thin or light, as the liner will overpower them. A nicely lined eye, on the other hand, is appealing. Liners draw attention to your eyes while remaining undetectable if blended properly.
You can use liquid liners or an eye pencil, but many people prefer dark eyeshadows for a less polished look. Wet a slanted brush and then dip it in a dark eyeshadow to achieve this look. From the inner to the outer corner, line your eyes as close to the upper lashes as possible. Apply liner beneath your eyes after that. Smudge the bottom line with a cotton swab to avoid a visible line.
Step 6: Highlight Your Brow
Apply the same light eyeshadow to your brow bone, focusing on the mid-brow outward. Dab it in with your finger to blend it in. Hardcore beauty junkies will want to use a brow pen, such as Yves Saint Laurent’s Touche Eclat ($35), but a super light shadow will suffice in a pinch.
Step 7: Curl Your Lashes
Even the longest and fullest lashes will look better with an eyelash curler. The term “electronic commerce” refers to the sale of electronic goods. It can make your lashes appear longer, fuller, and curl better. However, exercise caution because you do not want to burn your eyelashes off.
Step 8: Apply Mascara
Even the longest and fullest lashes will look better with an eyelash curler. The term “electronic commerce” refers to the sale of electronic goods. It can make your lashes appear longer, fuller, and curl better. However, exercise caution because you do not want to burn your eyelashes off.
