Our eyes are one of our most expressive features, able to convey a wide range of emotions. But when our eyes appear too large, it can create an unnatural or even unsettling look. Fortunately, there are a few simple makeup tricks you can use to make your eyes look smaller and more balanced with the rest of your face. In this article, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to achieve this effect, using a combination of eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara. Whether you’re looking to create a more subtle or dramatic look, these techniques will help you achieve the desired results.
The first step is to choose the right eyeshadow palette. Opt for shades that are matte or slightly shimmery, as they will help to create a more natural look. Avoid using bright or metallic colors, as these can make your eyes appear larger. Once you’ve selected your eyeshadow, apply a light shade to the entire lid, then blend a darker shade into the crease. This will help to create depth and definition, making your eyes appear smaller.
Next, use eyeliner to define your eyes. Start by drawing a thin line along the upper lash line, as close to the lashes as possible. Then, gently extend the line outward, following the natural curve of your eye. If you want to create a more dramatic look, you can add a flick at the end of the line. For the lower lash line, start by drawing a thin line from the inner corner of your eye to the middle. Then, gently blend the line outwards, making it slightly thicker as you go. This will help to create the illusion of smaller eyes. Finally, apply a few coats of mascara to your lashes, being careful not to overdo it. Mascara can help to lengthen and thicken your lashes, making them appear more prominent and drawing attention away from your eyes.
Utilize Subtle Eyeliner Techniques
Eyeliner can dramatically alter the appearance of your eyes. By applying it strategically, you can create the illusion of smaller eyes. Here are a few techniques to achieve this effect:
1. Use a Dark Shade: Opt for a dark shade of eyeliner, such as black or dark brown, to define your lash line and create depth. This helps to make your lashes look thicker and your eyes appear smaller.
2. Apply a Fine Line: Avoid drawing a thick line of eyeliner, as it can overwhelm your eyes. Instead, use a thin brush or pencil to create a fine line along your upper lash line. Start from the inner corner of your eye and gradually extend it to the outer corner.
3. Skip the Lower Lash Line: Refrain from applying eyeliner to your lower lash line. This can emphasize the size of your eyes and draw attention to the lower lid. By keeping your lower lash line bare, you can create the illusion of a smaller eye shape.
4. Use a Smudged Line: To further soften the look of your eyeliner, smudge it slightly with a cotton swab or brush. This helps to blur the edges and create a more natural effect, making your eyes appear less wide.
5. Create a Cat Eye: For a more dramatic yet subtle look, try creating a cat eye. Extend your eyeliner slightly beyond the outer corner of your eye, flicking it upwards. Keep the line thin and avoid extending it too far, as this can make your eyes look larger.
Define Your Crease Carefully
Creating a crease is a crucial step in defining the shape of your eyes and making them appear smaller. Follow these tips for effective creasing:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. | **Identify your natural crease:** Gently press your finger along your eyelid to locate the existing crease or fold. |
| 2. | **Choose the right shade:** Use an eyeshadow that is slightly darker than your natural skin tone, as the contrast will help define the crease. |
| 3. | **Apply with a brush:** Use an angled eyeshadow brush to apply the shadow along the crease. Start from the outer corner and blend inwards towards the center of your eyelid. |
| 4. | **Smudge and blend:** Use a small, clean brush or your finger to smudge the eyeshadow slightly and blend it into the surrounding area. This will create a softer, more natural look. |
Remember, the key to defining your crease is to avoid making it too sharp or dramatic. A subtle, well-blended crease will help create the illusion of smaller eyes.
Employ Dark and Bold Shadow Colors
Choosing the right eyeshadow colors is crucial in creating the illusion of smaller eyes. Opt for dark and bold shades that contrast with the natural skin tone. These colors will help define the contours of the eyes, making them appear narrower.
Using Dark Colors on the Outer Corners
Apply a darker eyeshadow shade to the outer corners of the eyes, blending it upwards and outwards. This will create depth and definition, drawing attention away from the center of the eyes.
Employing a Bold Eyeliner
A bold eyeliner in black or a dark brown shade can further emphasize the outer corners of the eyes. Apply a thin line along the upper and lower lash lines, thickening it slightly at the outer ends. This will help create a sharper and more defined eye shape.
Creating a Deep Crease
Contouring the crease with a deeper shade can add depth and dimension to the eyes, making them appear smaller and more almond-shaped. Apply a medium to dark eyeshadow slightly above the natural crease, blending it upwards with a fluffy blending brush. This will create a subtle yet effective shadow, giving the illusion of a lifted and smaller eye lid.
Create an Illusion with False Lashes
False lashes are a great way to create the illusion of larger eyes. By adding volume and length to your lashes, you can draw attention to your eyes and make them appear more open and awake. Here are a few tips for using false lashes to make your eyes look smaller:
Choose the Right Type of Lashes
Not all false lashes are created equal. When choosing lashes for smaller eyes, it’s important to select a style that is natural-looking and not too over-the-top. Opt for lashes that are shorter and less voluminous than you would for larger eyes. You may also want to consider individual lashes, which you can apply yourself to create a more customized look.
Apply Your Lashes Correctly
The way you apply your false lashes can make a big difference in how they look. When applying lashes to smaller eyes, be sure to trim them to fit your eye shape. Start by applying the lashes to the outer corner of your eye and work your way inward. Avoid placing the lashes too close to your lash line, as this can make your eyes look smaller. Instead, place them slightly above your natural lash line to create the illusion of longer, fuller lashes.
Use Mascara
Mascara can help to blend your false lashes with your natural lashes and create a more natural look. Apply mascara to your natural lashes before applying your false lashes. This will help to create a seamless transition between your natural lashes and your false lashes.
Curl Your Lashes
Curling your lashes can help to open up your eyes and make them appear larger. Before applying your false lashes, use an eyelash curler to curl your natural lashes. This will help to create a more lifted and dramatic look.
Use Contouring to Shape Your Eyes
Contouring can be used to create the illusion of smaller eyes by darkening and defining the crease above your eyelid and highlighting the brow bone.
- Apply a dark matte eyeshadow to the crease of your eyelid. Use a small brush to apply the shadow in a thin line along the crease, blending it upwards towards the brow bone.
- Apply a lighter matte eyeshadow to the brow bone. Use a larger brush to apply the shadow along the brow bone, blending it downwards towards the crease.
- Blend the two shadows together. Use a fluffy brush to blend the dark and light eyeshadows together, creating a seamless transition.
- Apply a matte black eyeliner to the upper and lower lash lines. Use a thin brush to create a fine line along the lash lines, extending slightly beyond the outer corners of your eyes.
- Apply several coats of mascara to your upper and lower lashes. This will help to define and darken your lashes, making them appear thicker and longer.
Here are some tips for making your eyes appear even smaller:
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Use a dark eyeshadow color. | Darker colors create a more defined crease, which can make your eyes appear smaller. |
| Blend the eyeshadow well. | A well-blended crease will create a seamless transition between the dark and light eyeshadows, which can make your eyes appear more narrow. |
| Apply eyeliner to the upper and lower lash lines. | Eyeliner can help to define your eyes and make them appear smaller. |
| Apply several coats of mascara. | Mascara can help to thicken and lengthen your lashes, which can make your eyes appear smaller. |
Master the Art of Winged Eyeliner
Winged eyeliner is a classic technique that can create the illusion of smaller eyes. To master this look, follow these steps:
- Prep your eyelids by applying primer or eyeshadow to create a smooth base.
- Using a liquid or gel eyeliner, start by creating a thin line along your upper lash line.
- From the outer corner of your eye, extend the line slightly upwards and outwards, creating a small wing.
- To create a more dramatic look, thicken the line slightly.
- Fill in the wing using the same eyeliner or a darker shade.
- To achieve a precise and clean finish, use a makeup wipe or a cotton swab with a small amount of makeup remover to clean up any smudges or imperfections.
Tips for Perfecting Winged Eyeliner
Tips Explanation Use a steady hand Rest your elbow on a flat surface for stability. Start with a thin line Gradually thicken it based on your desired look. Practice makes perfect Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different shapes and sizes.
Highlight and Contour Your Brow Bone
Highlighting and contouring your brow bone can create the illusion of smaller eyes. To highlight, apply a light-colored eyeshadow to the highest point of your brow bone and blend it upwards. Next, apply a slightly darker eyeshadow to the crease of your eyelid, blending it well.
For a more dramatic effect, you can also contour under the brow bone. To do this, use a matte eyeshadow that is two to three shades darker than your skin tone. Apply the eyeshadow to the outer half of the area directly under your brow bone, and blend it well.
Here are some additional tips for highlighting and contouring your brow bone:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a light touch | Avoid using too much eyeshadow, as this can make your eyes look smaller than you want them to. |
| Blend well | Make sure to blend your eyeshadow well, so that there are no harsh lines. |
| Use the right colors | Choose eyeshadow colors that complement your skin tone and eye color. |
Consider Temporary Eyebrow Shaping
Experiment with different eyebrow shapes to see which ones best minimize the appearance of your eyes. Here’s how to do it:
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Determine your natural brow shape: This is the shape of your brows when they’re not plucked or threaded.
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Choose a brow shape that suits your face shape: Oval faces can handle most brow shapes, while round faces may prefer arched brows, and square faces may look better with straight or angled brows.
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Use a brow pencil to sketch your desired shape: Follow your natural brow line as a guide, but adjust the shape as needed to achieve the desired effect.
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Tweeze or thread along the sketched shape: Remove any hairs outside the desired area to create a clean and defined brow.
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Fill in any sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder: This will help to create a fuller and more balanced look.
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Set your brows with a clear brow gel: This will help to keep your brows in place throughout the day.
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Experiment with different shapes until you find one that makes your eyes look smaller: Keep in mind that it may take some trial and error to find the perfect shape for you.
Practice the “Eye Shrinking” Technique
Mastering the “eye shrinking” technique is a subtle yet effective method to minimize the appearance of your eyes. By intentionally constricting your eyelids, you can create the illusion of smaller peepers. Here’s how to perform the technique:
- Start by relaxing your face.
- Locate the outer corners of your eyes.
- Gently press your index fingers into these corners.
- While maintaining pressure, look straight ahead.
- Close your eyes for a few seconds.
- Slowly open your eyes while keeping the pressure on the outer corners.
- Hold this position for 5-10 seconds.
- Release the pressure and repeat the process several times.
- As you practice, gradually increase the amount of pressure applied.
| Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|
| 5-10 seconds per repetition | Several repetitions daily |
Regular practice of this technique can result in noticeable shrinkage of your eyes over time. Be patient and consistent with your efforts.
Seek Professional Advice for Semi-Permanent Options
If you are considering more long-term solutions to reduce the size of your eyes, it is essential to seek professional advice. Experienced medical practitioners, such as ophthalmologists or plastic surgeons, can provide personalized guidance and perform safe and effective procedures.
Eyelid Reduction Surgery
Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid reduction surgery, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the eyelids. This can effectively shrink the appearance of the eyes by tightening the surrounding skin.
Ptosis Repair
Ptosis is a medical condition characterized by drooping eyelids. Treating ptosis involves surgically lifting the eyelid, which can also create a smaller eye appearance.
Lateral Canthoplasty
Lateral canthoplasty is a procedure that widens the outer corner of the eyes, making them appear narrower.
Epicanthoplasty
Epicanthoplasty is a surgical technique that creates a fold of skin in the inner corner of the eyes, visually minimizing their size.
| Procedure | Result |
|---|---|
| Blepharoplasty | Removes excess skin and fat from eyelids, reducing their size |
| Ptosis Repair | Lifts drooping eyelids, creating a smaller eye appearance |
| Lateral Canthoplasty | Widens outer corner of eyes, making them appear narrower |
| Epicanthoplasty | Creates a fold of skin in inner corner of eyes, visually minimizing their size |
How To Make Your Eyes Look Smaller
If you’re looking to make your eyes look smaller, there are a few things you can do. Here are some tips:
- Use a dark eyeshadow on your lower lash line. This will create the illusion of a smaller eye.
- Avoid using light eyeshadows on your upper lash line. This will make your eyes look larger.
- Use eyeliner to create a thin line along your upper and lower lash lines. This will help to define your eyes and make them look smaller.
- Apply mascara to your upper and lower lashes. This will help to make your lashes look thicker and longer, which will also make your eyes look smaller.
- Avoid using false eyelashes. False eyelashes can make your eyes look larger.
People Also Ask
How can I make my big eyes look smaller?
If you have big eyes and want to make them look smaller, here are a few tips:
- Use a dark eyeshadow on your lower lash line. This will create the illusion of a smaller eye.
- Avoid using light eyeshadows on your upper lash line. This will make your eyes look larger.
- Use eyeliner to create a thin line along your upper and lower lash lines. This will help to define your eyes and make them look smaller.
- Apply mascara to your upper and lower lashes. This will help to make your lashes look thicker and longer, which will also make your eyes look smaller.
- Avoid using false eyelashes. False eyelashes can make your eyes look larger.
What eye makeup makes eyes look smaller?
Dark eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara can all be used to make your eyes look smaller. Avoid using light eyeshadows and false eyelashes, as these can make your eyes look larger.
How can I make my eyes appear more almond shaped?
To make your eyes appear more almond shaped, use a dark eyeshadow in the outer corner of your eye and a lighter eyeshadow in the inner corner. Blend the two colors together to create a smooth transition. You can also use eyeliner to create a thin, slightly winged line along your upper lash line.
