Do you have big, beautiful eyes that you’re always trying to make look smaller? If so, you’re not alone. Many people feel self-conscious about having large eyes, and they may go to great lengths to try to make them appear smaller. However, there are a few simple makeup tricks that you can use to achieve this goal without having to resort to drastic measures. By following these tips, you can create the illusion of smaller eyes and give yourself a more balanced look.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when trying to make your eyes look smaller is to use dark eyeshadow. This will help to create a shadow around your eyes, making them appear smaller. You can also use eyeliner to line your eyes, but be sure to use a thin line and avoid going too close to your lash line. If you want to create a more dramatic effect, you can use false eyelashes. However, be sure to choose lashes that are short and natural-looking, as long, dramatic lashes can actually make your eyes look larger.
In addition to using makeup, there are a few other things you can do to make your eyes look smaller. For example, you can wear sunglasses with large frames. This will help to cover up your eyes and make them appear smaller. You can also try wearing your hair down, as this can help to frame your face and make your eyes less noticeable. Finally, you can avoid wearing bright colors around your eyes, as this can draw attention to them and make them look larger.
Understanding Eye Shape and Proportion
Eye Shape
Eye shape plays a crucial role in determining how to make your eyes look smaller. Different eye shapes require different techniques to create the illusion of smaller size. Here’s a breakdown of the most common eye shapes:
Almond Eyes: These are typically elongated and have a slight upward curve at the outer corners. Almond eyes tend to look larger than they actually are, especially if the outer corners are more pronounced.
Round Eyes: As the name suggests, round eyes are more circular in shape, with minimal crease in the eyelid. They often appear doe-eyed and exude innocence.
Hooded Eyes: Hooded eyes have an extra fold of skin that droops over the eyelid crease, obscuring it partially or entirely. This fold can make the eyes appear smaller and more tired.
Upturned Eyes: These eyes have a slight upward tilt at the outer corners, giving them a cheerful and youthful appearance. They tend to have a larger-than-life look due to the visible white rim below the iris.
Downturned Eyes: Downturned eyes slope downward at the outer corners, creating a melancholy or somber expression. They often have a smaller appearance due to the limited visible eyelid space.
Eye Proportion
The proportion of your eyes in relation to your face also affects their perceived size. The ideal eye-to-face ratio is approximately 1:5, meaning that the width of your eyes should be about one-fifth of the width of your face. If your eyes are significantly larger or smaller than this proportion, it can make them look more prominent or diminished, respectively.
Factors that can affect eye proportion include the size of the eyelid, the amount of visible sclera (white of the eye), and the prominence of the eyebrows. Understanding your eye proportion can help you determine the most effective techniques for altering their perceived size.
Contouring the Outer Corners
Contouring the outer corners is a great way to make your eyes look smaller. By using a dark eyeshadow or eyeliner, you can create a shadow that will make the outer corners of your eyes look smaller and narrower. This is a great technique for people with large or round eyes.
To contour the outer corners of your eyes, start by applying a dark eyeshadow or eyeliner to the outer corner of your eyelid. Blend the shadow or liner outwards, creating a soft and gradual gradient. You can use a small brush or sponge to blend the shadow or liner for a more natural look.
Tips for Contouring the Outer Corners:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a dark eyeshadow or eyeliner | This will help to create a shadow that will make the outer corners of your eyes look smaller. |
| Blend the shadow or liner outwards | This will create a soft and gradual gradient that will look more natural. |
| Use a small brush or sponge | This will help you to blend the shadow or liner more precisely. |
Darkening the Upper Lash Line
This technique creates the illusion of a smaller eyelid space by adding darkness to the upper lash line.
1. Define the lash line with eyeliner:
Choose a soft, smudgeable eyeliner pencil in a dark shade like black or dark brown. Draw a thin line along your upper lash line, hugging the base of your lashes. Smudge it out slightly with a brush or your fingertip for a soft, diffused look.
2. Apply eye shadow in the crease:
Use a matte eyeshadow in a shade slightly darker than your skin tone. Apply it in the crease of your eyelid, blending it upwards into the brow bone. This will create depth and contour, making your eyelids appear smaller.
3. Create a sultry smoky eye:
For a more dramatic effect, opt for a smoky eye look. Apply a dark eyeshadow to the outer corner of your eyelid, blending it inwards towards the crease. Layer different shades of gray or brown to create a gradient effect. Use a smudging brush to blend the edges, softening the look. Finish with a coat of mascara to add volume to your lashes and complete the effect.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Apply dark eyeliner along the upper lash line. |
| 2 | Add dark eyeshadow to the eyelid crease. |
| 3 | Create a smoky eye effect with graded eyeshadows and smudging. |
Applying Shadow to the Crease
Applying shadow to the crease of your eyelid is a simple yet effective way to make your eyes look smaller. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Choose a Shadow Color
Select a matte shadow in a neutral shade, such as brown, gray, or black. Shimmery or iridescent shadows will make your eyes appear larger.
2. Apply a Base Color
Use a light-to-medium shade of eyeshadow as a base color. Apply it from your lash line to the crease using a blending brush.
3. Define the Crease
Dip an angled brush into your darker crease shadow. Gently sweep the brush along the crease of your eyelid, starting from the inner corner and blending towards the outer corner.
4. Blend the Shadows
Using a clean blending brush, carefully blend the crease shadow into the base color.
| Tips for Blending the Shadows | Mistakes to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Use a fluffy blending brush with a tapered tip. | Over-blending, which can result in a smudged or unnatural look. |
| Blend in small circular motions. | Applying too much pressure, which can create harsh lines. |
| Be patient and take your time. | Using the wrong brush, such as one that is too stiff or dense. |
By following these steps, you can effectively define your crease and make your eyes appear smaller. However, remember that the results will vary depending on your eye shape and the depth of your crease.
Creating Subtle Highlights
To draw attention away from large eyes, focus on highlighting areas that will create balance. Avoid over-highlighting the center of your lids, as this will make them appear even larger. Instead, apply a subtle shimmer or a matte neutral eyeshadow to the inner and outer corners of your eyes. This will create a soft, diffused effect that draws attention to the outer edges, minimizing the overall size of your eyes.
Tips for Creating Subtle Highlights:
| Highlight Placement | Effect |
|---|---|
| Inner corners | Creates a more open, awake look, reducing the appearance of large eyes. |
| Outer corners | Extends the eyes horizontally, making them appear narrower. |
| Brow bone | Lifts the eyes, creating a more almond shape. |
| Avoid highlighting center of lids | Draws attention to the middle of the eyes, making them appear larger. |
Remember to use soft, natural shades that blend well with your skin tone. Avoid using overly shimmery or glittery products, as they can reflect light and exaggerate the size of your eyes. By creating subtle highlights in the right places, you can effectively minimize the appearance of large eyes and achieve a more balanced and flattering overall look.
Using Eyeliner to Define
Tightlining
Apply eyeliner along the waterline of your lower lash line. This creates the illusion of a thicker lash line, making your eyes appear smaller.
Upper Lash Line
Draw a thin line along the upper lash line, starting from the inner corner and extending to the outer corner. Keep the line close to the lashes to avoid making your eyes look larger.
Winged Eyeliner
Extend the eyeliner beyond the outer corner of your eye, creating a subtle wing. This technique draws attention to the outer edges of your eyes, making them appear narrower.
Cat Eyeliner
Similar to winged eyeliner, but with a more exaggerated wing. Draw a bold line along the upper lash line and create a sharp, upward flick at the outer corner. This creates a dramatic effect that can make your eyes appear smaller.
Avoid Shimmery Eyeliner
Shimmery or glittery eyeliner can make your eyes appear larger due to light reflection. Opt for matte or neutral shades to minimize attention to your eyes.
Table of Eyeliner Tips for Making Eyes Look Smaller:
| Technique | Effect |
|---|---|
| Tightlining | Creates a thicker lash line, making eyes appear smaller. |
| Upper Lash Line | Draws attention to the lash line, making eyes appear narrower. |
| Winged Eyeliner | Extends the outer edges of eyes, creating a narrower appearance. |
| Cat Eyeliner | Creates a dramatic effect that draws attention to the outer corners, making eyes appear smaller. |
| Avoid Shimmery Eyeliner | Reduces light reflection, preventing eyes from appearing larger. |
Enhancing the Brows
The shape and thickness of your brows can significantly impact the perceived size of your eyes. Here are some tips to make your eyes appear smaller:
Arch Your Brows
Arched brows lift the face and create a more open look. Use an eyebrow pencil or powder to define the arch, starting from the inner corner and gradually rising towards the outer corner.
Shorten Your Brows
Trim any stray hairs that extend beyond the natural brow line. Sh shorter brows will give the illusion of a more compact and smaller eye area.
Thicken Your Brows
Fill in sparse areas with an eyebrow pencil or pomade. Thicker brows help balance out larger eyes, making them appear smaller in proportion to the rest of the face.
Define the Lower Brow Line
Use a thin brush and light-colored concealer or powder to define the lower brow line. This will help create a more defined shadow that enhances the brow arch and makes the eyes appear smaller.
Angle Your Brows Downward
Avoid brows that are angled too high. Instead, gentle downward-angled brows can create a more compact and narrow eye shape.
Soften the Brow Edges
Use a spoolie brush to smooth out harsh lines and blend the brow edges. Softer brows create a less distracting look, making the eyes appear less prominent.
Consider Microblading
For a more permanent solution, consider eyebrow microblading. This technique involves implanting pigment into the skin to create realistic-looking, natural-looking brows that can enhance the overall eye shape.
Concealing Undereye Circles
Concealing under eye circles is essential for minimizing the appearance of puffy eyes and making your eyes look smaller. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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1. Prep your skin
Moisturize your under eye area with a hydrating eye cream to prep it for makeup application.
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2. Use a color corrector
Apply a peach or pink color corrector underneath your eyes to counteract the blue or purple tones of dark circles.
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3. Apply concealer
Choose a concealer that’s one or two shades lighter than your skin tone. Apply it under your eyes in a triangle shape, focusing on the inner corners.
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4. Blend it well
Use a damp beauty blender or brush to blend the concealer seamlessly into your skin.
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5. Set it with powder
Dust a small amount of pressed powder under your eyes to set the concealer and prevent it from creasing.
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6. Use highlighting powder
Apply a light-reflecting highlighting powder to the high points of your cheekbones to draw attention away from under eye circles.
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7. Curl your lashes
Curling your eyelashes will help to open up your eyes and make them look bigger.
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8. Apply mascara sparingly
When applying mascara, focus on coating the outer lashes and avoiding the inner lashes. This will help to create an illusion of depth and make your eyes appear smaller. You can opt for the following strategies:
For a subtle effect: For a bolder effect: Apply a single coat of mascara to your outer lashes only. Apply two coats of mascara, focusing on the outer lashes. Use a volumizing mascara to add thickness to your lashes. Use a lengthening mascara to create the illusion of longer lashes. Avoid using waterproof mascara, as it can be difficult to remove. Apply false eyelashes to the outer corners of your eyes. Using False Eyelashes for Volume
False eyelashes are a great way to add volume and length to your natural lashes, which can help to make your eyes look smaller. When choosing false eyelashes, look for a pair that is the same length or slightly longer than your natural lashes. You should also choose a pair that is made from a natural-looking material, such as silk or mink.
To apply false eyelashes, start by measuring them against your natural lashes to make sure they are the correct length. Then, apply a thin line of eyelash glue to the base of the false eyelashes. Wait a few seconds for the glue to become tacky, then press the false eyelashes against your natural lashes. Hold them in place for a few seconds until the glue dries.
To remove false eyelashes, use a makeup remover or a cotton swab dipped in warm water. Gently pull the false eyelashes away from your natural lashes, starting from the outer corner of your eye.
Here are some tips for using false eyelashes for volume:
Choose the right length and style
Shape of Eye Lash Style Downturned Choose lashes that are longer in the center Narrow Opt for lashes that are flared out at the ends Protruding Use lashes that are shorter in the center Hooded Select lashes that are long and voluminous in the center Almond Any lash style will complement this eye shape Apply mascara
Applying mascara to your natural lashes before applying false eyelashes will help to blend them together and create a more seamless look.
Use a thin line of glue
Using too much glue can make your false eyelashes look clumpy and unnatural. Instead, apply a thin, even line of glue to the base of the false eyelashes.
Wait a few seconds before pressing them on
This will give the glue time to become tacky, making it easier to apply the false eyelashes without them sliding around.
Press them on firmly
Once you have applied the false eyelashes, press them firmly against your natural lashes to ensure a secure hold.
Trim them if necessary
If the false eyelashes are too long, you can trim them to the desired length.
Remove them gently
To remove false eyelashes, use a makeup remover or a cotton swab dipped in warm water. Gently pull the false eyelashes away from your natural lashes, starting from the outer corner of your eye.
Tips for Maintaining Balance
In order to achieve balance, it is essential to consider the overall impact of your eye makeup. Here are some additional factors to consider:
10. Incorporate Gradient Shades:
Apply a darker shade of eyeshadow in the outer corner of the eye, gradually blending into a lighter shade towards the inner corner. This creates an illusion of depth, drawing the focus away from the size of the eyes.
To further enhance the effect, consider using a matte finish for the darker shade and a shimmery finish for the lighter shade. This contrast will accentuate the gradient and make the eyes appear smaller.
Tips for Maintaining Balance Use darker colors on the outer corners of the eyes Use lighter colors on the inner corners of the eyes Blend eyeshadow well Use matte finish on darker shades Use shimmery finish on lighter shades How to Make Your Eyes Look Smaller
Do you want to make your eyes look smaller? There are a few things you can do to achieve this. Here are some tips:
- Use darker eyeshadow. Darker eyeshadow will make your eyes appear smaller. Apply a dark shade to your eyelid crease and blend upwards. You can also use a dark eyeliner to line your upper and lower lash lines.
- Avoid using light eyeshadow. Light eyeshadow will make your eyes appear larger. Stick to darker shades to create the illusion of smaller eyes.
- Use matte eyeshadow. Matte eyeshadow will help to absorb light and make your eyes look smaller. Avoid using eyeshadow with glitter or shimmer.
- Line your eyes with a thin line. A thin eyeliner will help to define your eyes without making them look larger. Avoid using a thick eyeliner.
- Use mascara sparingly. Mascara can help to make your eyelashes look longer and thicker, which will make your eyes appear larger. Use mascara sparingly to avoid making your eyes look too big.
People Also Ask About How to Make Your Eyes Look Smaller
What are some other ways to make my eyes look smaller?
In addition to the tips above, here are some other things you can do to make your eyes look smaller:
- Use a smaller eyeshadow brush. A smaller brush will help you to apply eyeshadow more precisely and avoid making your eyes look larger.
- Apply eyeshadow to your lower lash line. Applying eyeshadow to your lower lash line will help to define your eyes and make them look smaller.
- Use a brown or black eyeliner. Brown or black eyeliner will help to create a more natural look than black eyeliner.
