Eye makeup can instantly enhance your appearance. You may be intimidated to apply eye makeup when you see all the great looks experts can achieve. You don’t have to start off at that level, and you can use some basic techniques to create a lovely, natural effect. All you need to master applying eye makeup is the right tools, techniques and some practice if you’re a beginner.
Consider eyelash extensions
You may think that applying eyelash extensions yourself is difficult. When you use Lilac St at home eyelash extensions, this isn’t the case. You can easily apply them in about 10 minutes, and they offer a week of wear.
Lilac St, LoveSeen and Velour offer a basic set for beginners who want to try out lash extensions. The lashes look very natural as the fibers are individually hand-arranged. You don’t even really need to use mascara when wearing their quality, natural-looking lashes, but you can do so if you wish.
Prime your lids
Using an primer will help your eye makeup to stay on longer. It could be exactly what you need if you find your eye makeup last well. Primer creates a smooth surface that allows your eye shadow to glide on effortlessly. Apply a tiny amount and allow it to dry. After that, you can apply an eyeshadow base as a foundation for the shades you want to use.
Choose a neutral eye shadow palette
As a beginner, it is right for you to start off using a neutral eye shadow palette as this can work for all eye colors. If you’re going for more of a natural, day-to-day look, a few neutral shadows offer a simple way to start. You will need a highlighter that’s lighter than your skin tone. A mid-tone will add some color to your lids. A contouring tone that’s darker than your skin tone will help add definition.
Use the right eye makeup brushes and techniques
Brushes for eye makeup are different from other makeup brushes, and it is important to use the right ones. You will need one that’s small and flat for precise application. You will also need a medium-sized blending brush to blend the different shades. When you’re blending eye shadow, using tiny circular motions is best.
Apply the lightest and mid-tone shades
Using the lightest shade and the small brush, apply the shade from the inner corner of your eye and all the way up to your brow bone. This gives extra lift and finish to your brows.
Now use the blending brush and apply the mid-tone shade to the crease of your eyelid. Placing a darker tone of shadow in the crease adds depth and makes your eyes look larger. This time start outwards and glide inwards. When applying shadow to your crease, it helps to lift your head back and look slightly downwards into the mirror.
Contour your eyes
How you contour your eyes will mean getting to know their shape. You can use contouring to add definition and balance your features. If you have close-set eyes, add light to the inner half of your eye, contour the outer edge and inwards along the crease blending in the center where dark meets light. If you have wide-set eyes, contour the inner half of the eye and add light to your brow bone.
For deep-set eyes, contour just above the crease on the outer two-thirds of the eye and blend up towards the brow bone. If your eyes are prominent, shade your whole lid and lower lash line, darkening more in the eye crease and blending from the outer corner to the inner corner.
What about the eyeliner?
When you apply eyeliner correctly, it can enhance your eyes and make your eyelashes look thicker. However, eyeliner can be harsh and instead, you can try using an angled, short-bristled brush and smudging matte black eyeshadow close to your lash line. This will give you a softer finish.
Fix your mistakes
Even seasoned makeup artists can make mistakes. If you make a mistake, the best way to fix it is to spritz a Q-tip with makeup remover and go over the mistake.
