Who says smaller eyes are less attractive? The beauty standard might emphasize large, wide-open eyes, but there’s an allure to smaller eyes that’s both mysterious and captivating. If you’ve been blessed with captivating smaller eyes and want to accentuate their beauty, this guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to creating the illusion of smaller eyes while still maintaining their captivating charm.
First and foremost, it’s essential to understand the key factors that influence the perception of eye size. Darker shades tend to make eyes appear smaller, while lighter shades have the opposite effect. With this knowledge, you can strategically apply eyeshadows to achieve your desired outcome. Choose a dark eyeshadow shade, preferably a matte or satin finish, and apply it to the outer corner of your eye, blending it inward towards the center. This creates a subtle shading effect that draws attention to the outer corners, making your eyes appear narrower.
Eyeliner plays a crucial role in shaping the appearance of your eyes. To make your eyes look smaller, opt for a dark, matte eyeliner and apply it along your upper lash line, starting from the outer corner and gradually thinning the line as you approach the inner corner. Avoid extending the line beyond the outer corner of your eye, as this can create a dramatic, winged effect that contradicts your goal of making your eyes appear smaller. Additionally, skip the lower lash line altogether or apply the eyeliner very lightly, as a dark line on the lower lash line can widen the eyes.
Understanding Eye Shape and Proportion
The shape and size of your eyes play a crucial role in determining their overall appearance. Understanding these factors is essential for effectively making your eyes look smaller.
Eye Shape
There are several common eye shapes, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Almond: Eyes that are elongated with a slight point at the corners.
- Round: Eyes that are circular or almost circular in shape.
- Oval: Eyes that are similar to almond eyes but are slightly more elongated.
- Upturned: Eyes that have a slight upward curve at the outer corners.
- Downturned: Eyes that have a slight downward curve at the outer corners.
Eye Proportion
In addition to shape, the proportion of your eyes is also important. The following factors determine eye proportion:
- Eyelid size: The amount of visible eyelid above and below the iris.
- Iris size: The size of the colored part of the eye.
- Pupil size: The size of the black dot in the center of the iris.
- White space: The amount of white showing around the iris.
Understanding these elements of eye shape and proportion will help you tailor your makeup techniques to create the illusion of smaller eyes.
Using Makeup Techniques
Makeup can be used to create various illusions on the face, including making the eyes appear smaller. Here are some effective techniques to achieve this effect:
Darken the Upper Lashline
Applying a dark eyeliner or eyeshadow to the upper lashline can create the illusion of a smaller eye shape. Choose a dark shade, such as black, charcoal, or navy, and apply it along the upper lash line, as close to the lashes as possible. This will create a defined line that frames and emphasizes the eyes, making them appear narrower.
Contour the Crease
Contouring the crease of the eye can help to create a more defined and sculpted appearance, which can make the eyes look smaller. Use a matte eyeshadow in a shade that is slightly darker than your natural skin tone and apply it to the crease of the eyelid, blending it out towards the outer corner. This will create a shadow that adds depth and definition to the eye socket, giving the illusion of a smaller eye shape.
Use a Shimmery Inner Corner Highlight
| Product | Effect |
|---|---|
| Shimmery eyeshadow or highlighter | Creates a brighter, more defined inner corner, which helps to balance the size of the eyes and make them appear smaller. |
Applying a shimmery eyeshadow or highlighter to the inner corner of the eye can help to create a brighter, more defined inner corner. This will draw attention to the inner corner and balance out the size of the eyes, making them appear smaller. Choose a shimmery shade that complements your eye color and apply it to the inner corner of the eye, blending it out slightly towards the center of the lid.
Employing Contouring and Shading
Contouring and shading techniques can effectively minimize the appearance of large eyes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Apply a base shadow: Begin by applying a neutral or light shade all over your eyelid, blending it upwards. This base shadow will provide a smooth canvas for contouring.
2. Contour the crease: Using a darker shade, define the crease of your eyelid. Apply the shadow in a slightly curved line, blending it well into the base shadow. This creates the illusion of depth and pushes the crease back, making the eyes appear smaller.
3. Highlight the outer corner: To further reduce the size of your eyes, highlight the outer corner of your eyelid. Apply a light or shimmery shade to the outer third of your lid, blending it into the crease shadow. This technique draws attention to the outer corner, making the eyes seem smaller in comparison.
4. Blend and refine: Use a blending brush to gently blend the different shadow shades together. This ensures a seamless transition between colors and creates a more natural look.
| Tip | Enhancement |
|---|---|
| Use matte shadows instead of shimmery ones | Matte shadows create a more defined and reduced effect. |
| Extend the contour shadow beyond the crease | This creates a stronger shadow and pushes the crease back even further. |
| Avoid using a harsh or dark eyeliner | Dark eyeliner can accentuate the size of your eyes. Opt for a thin, dark brown or black line instead. |
Creating Depth and Shadows
One of the most effective ways to make eyes look smaller is to create depth and shadows around the lids. This technique can help to define the creases and create the illusion of smaller eyes. Here are some tips for creating depth and shadows:
Use a matte eyeshadow in a dark shade
Apply the eyeshadow to the outer corner of the lid, blending it inward towards the crease. This will create a shadow that helps to define the crease and make the eyes look smaller.
Use a shimmer eyeshadow in a light shade
Apply the shimmer eyeshadow to the inner corner of the lid, blending it outward towards the center. This will help to create a highlight that brings the eyes forward and makes them look larger.
Use an eyeliner pencil in a dark shade
Line the upper and lower lash lines with the eyeliner pencil, smudging it slightly to create a soft, diffused look. This will help to define the eyes and make them look smaller.
Use a mascara in a volumizing formula
Apply the mascara to the upper and lower lashes, focusing on the outer corners. This will help to add volume and length to the lashes, which can help to make the eyes look smaller.
De-Emphasizing Eyelashes
There are several ways to de-emphasize your eyelashes to make your eyes look smaller.
One way is to use a clear or nude mascara. This will help to define your lashes without making them look too dark or thick. You can also try using a brown or gray mascara instead of black, which will also help to create a more subtle look.
Another way to de-emphasize your eyelashes is to trim them shorter. This will help to reduce the amount of attention they draw to your eyes. You can also try curling your lashes downward instead of upward, which will also help to make them less noticeable.
Finally, you can try using a cotton swab to smudge your mascara after you apply it. This will help to create a more diffused look that is less likely to make your eyes look larger.
Tips for Applying Mascara to De-Emphasize Eyelashes
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Choose a clear or nude mascara, or a brown or gray mascara instead of black. |
| 2 | Trim your lashes shorter if desired. |
| 3 | Curl your lashes downward instead of upward. |
| 4 | Apply mascara to your lashes, starting from the roots and working your way to the tips. |
| 5 | Once you have applied mascara to your lashes, use a cotton swab to smudge it slightly. This will help to create a more diffused look that is less likely to make your eyes look larger. |
Avoiding Dramatic Eyeliner
Dramatic eyeliner can draw attention to the eyes and make them appear larger. To make your eyes look smaller, opt for a more natural eye makeup look. Use a thin line of eyeliner in a neutral color like brown or gray, and avoid creating a winged or cat-eye shape. Focus on lining the upper lash line only, and avoid lining the lower lash line.
If you do want to use a darker eyeliner, apply it with a light hand and blend it out with a cotton swab or blending brush. This will create a softer, less dramatic look that won’t make your eyes look bigger.
Eyeliner Application Tips for Smaller Eyes
| Eyeliner Style | How to Apply |
|---|---|
| Thin line | Apply a thin line of eyeliner to the upper lash line only. Avoid creating a winged or cat-eye shape. |
| Neutral color | Use a neutral color like brown or gray for a natural look. Avoid using black or dark brown eyeliner. |
| Light hand | Apply eyeliner with a light hand and blend it out with a cotton swab or blending brush. |
| Avoid lower lash line | Do not line the lower lash line. This can make eyes look smaller. |
Choosing the Right Eyebrow Shape
Choosing the right eyebrow shape can help make your eyes look smaller. Here are a few tips:
Consider your face shape
If you have a round face, avoid eyebrows that are too rounded, as this will only make your eyes look even bigger. Instead, opt for eyebrows that are more angled or arched.
Consider your eye shape
If you have small eyes, avoid eyebrows that are too thick or dark, as this will also make your eyes look smaller. Instead, opt for eyebrows that are lighter and thinner.
Consider your hair color
If you have dark hair, avoid eyebrows that are too light, as this will make them look unnatural. Instead, opt for eyebrows that are a shade or two lighter than your hair color.
Consider your personal style
Ultimately, the best eyebrow shape for you is the one that you feel most confident in. If you’re not sure what shape to go for, ask a professional for advice.
Here is a table summarizing the key points:
| Face Shape | Recommended Eyebrow Shape |
|---|---|
| Round | Angled or arched |
| Oval | Softly curved |
| Square | Straight or slightly rounded |
| Diamond | Arched or peaked |
Using Neutral or Matte Makeup
Neutral vs. Matte
Neutral makeup refers to shades that are close to your natural skin tone, such as beige, brown, or gray. Matte makeup, on the other hand, has a flat finish without any shine or shimmer. Both neutral and matte makeup can help to minimize the appearance of your eyes by creating a more subdued look.
Neutral Makeup
When using neutral makeup, choose shades that are one or two shades lighter than your skin tone. This will help to create a more natural look while still defining your eyes. For your lids, use a matte eyeshadow in a neutral shade. You can also add a thin line of eyeliner along your upper lash line, using a brown or gray pencil or liquid liner. Finish with a coat of mascara in a natural black or brown shade.
Matte Makeup
Matte makeup can be used to create a more dramatic look that still minimizes the size of your eyes. Start by applying a matte eyeshadow in a dark neutral shade to your lids. Then, use a matte black or brown eyeliner to create a thin line along your upper and lower lash lines. Finish with a coat of volumizing mascara in a black or dark brown shade.
Additional Tips for Using Neutral or Matte Makeup
| Tips |
|---|
| Avoid using shimmer or glitter in your makeup, as this can draw attention to your eyes and make them look larger. |
| Use a light hand when applying makeup, as too much makeup can make your eyes look smaller. |
| Consider using a makeup primer before applying eyeshadow to help prevent creasing and smudging, which can also make your eyes look larger. |
| If you have hooded eyes, use a matte eyeshadow in a light shade on your lids and blend it up into your crease to help create the illusion of a larger eye area. |
Limiting Eyebrow Definition
The shape and definition of your eyebrows can significantly impact the perceived size of your eyes. To make your eyes appear smaller, consider toning down the sharpness and definition of your brows.
Avoid raising your brows too high: Overly arched eyebrows create a wide-eyed look, making your eyes seem larger. Instead, aim for a more subtle arch that follows the natural curve of your brow bone.
Keep your brows filled in lightly: Dark, precisely filled-in brows can draw attention to the upper lid, making your eyes look bigger. Instead, use a lighter shade of brow powder or pencil and apply it sparingly, focusing on the outer two-thirds of your brow.
Extend your brows slightly: Eyebrows that end prematurely can create the illusion of downturned eyes, making your eyes appear larger. To counteract this, extend the tail of your brows slightly upward, keeping the angle natural.
Groom your brow hairs downwards: Brushed-up eyebrows create a more lifted look, which can widen your eyes. Brush your brow hairs downwards to minimize vertical space and create the effect of smaller eyes.
Try a fringe or bangs: A full fringe or side-swept bangs can help conceal your forehead, which can minimize the perceived size of your eyes.
| 眉形（从大到小） |
|---|
| 高拱眉 |
| 自然弧眉 |
| 平直眉 |
Crafting the Illusion of Smaller Eyes
1. Eyeliner
Avoid using eyeliner on your lower lash line, as this can make your eyes appear larger. Instead, focus on applying eyeliner to your upper lash line, drawing a thin line close to your lashes. Avoid using liquid eyeliner and smudging it up into the crease of your eyelid, as this will draw attention to your crease and make your eyes appear more open.
2. Dark Eyeshadow
Use a dark eyeshadow shade to create a smoky effect on your eyelids. Blend the eyeshadow outward and upward, avoiding the center of your lid. This will help to create the illusion of depth and make your eyes appear smaller.
3. False Lashes
False lashes can help to make your eyes look smaller by adding length and volume to your natural lashes. Choose a pair of lashes that are shorter and more natural-looking, and apply them to the outer corners of your eyes. Avoid using lashes that are too long or too thick, as this can make your eyes appear more wide and open.
4. Brows
Thick, arched brows can help to make your eyes appear smaller. Use a brow pencil to fill in your brows and shape them into a high arch. Avoid over-plucking your brows, as this can make your eyes appear more exposed.
5. Concealer
Use a concealer that is one shade lighter than your skin tone to conceal any dark circles or under-eye bags. This will help to brighten the area around your eyes and make them appear smaller.
6. Eye Drops
Use eye drops to reduce redness and inflammation in your eyes. Redness can make your eyes appear larger, so using eye drops can help to minimize this effect.
7. Avoid Shimmery Eyeshadow
Shimmery eyeshadow can reflect light and make your eyes appear larger. Avoid using shimmery eyeshadows on your eyelids, and instead opt for matte or satin finishes.
8. Avoid Wearing Too Much Makeup
Wearing too much makeup can make your eyes appear more heavy and tired. Avoid using heavy foundation or concealer around your eyes, and instead opt for a light, natural look.
9. Get Enough Sleep
When you’re tired, your eyes can appear more puffy and swollen. Make sure to get enough sleep each night to help reduce puffiness and make your eyes appear smaller.
10. Consider Eyelid Surgery
If you’re unhappy with the size of your eyes and have exhausted all other options, you may consider eyelid surgery. Eyelid surgery can be used to reduce the size of your eyelids and make your eyes appear smaller. However, it’s important to note that eyelid surgery is a major procedure and should only be considered as a last resort.
| Characteristic | Effect on Eye Size |
|---|---|
| Eyeliner on upper lash line | Makes eyes appear smaller |
| Eyeliner on lower lash line | Makes eyes appear larger |
| Dark eyeshadow on outer corners | Makes eyes appear smaller |
| False lashes on outer corners | Makes eyes appear smaller |
| Concealer under eyes | Makes eyes appear smaller |
| Shimmery eyeshadow | Makes eyes appear larger |
| Heavy makeup | Makes eyes appear larger |
How To Make Eyes Look Smaller
There are a few different ways to make your eyes look smaller. One way is to use eyeliner. Start by lining your upper lash line with a dark pencil or liquid liner. Then, smudge the liner out slightly with a cotton swab or brush. This will help to create a more defined line that will make your eyes look smaller.
You can also use eyeshadow to make your eyes look smaller. Start by applying a light eyeshadow to your entire eyelid. Then, apply a darker eyeshadow to your crease. Finally, blend the two shadows together to create a smooth transition. This will help to create the illusion of depth, which will make your eyes look smaller.
Finally, you can use mascara to make your eyes look smaller. Start by applying mascara to your upper lashes only. Then, use a cotton swab to smudge the mascara slightly. This will help to create a more natural look that will make your eyes look smaller.
People Also Ask About How To Make Eyes Look Smaller
How can I make my eyes look smaller naturally?
There are a few natural ways to make your eyes look smaller. One way is to use a cotton swab to gently push your eyebrows up. This will help to create the illusion of a smaller forehead, which will make your eyes look smaller.
Another natural way to make your eyes look smaller is to use concealer. Start by applying concealer to your under-eye area. Then, blend the concealer up into your crease. This will help to create a more even skin tone, which will make your eyes look smaller.
What are some other ways to make my eyes look smaller?
There are a few other ways to make your eyes look smaller. One way is to use a smaller eyelash curler. This will help to create a more natural curl that will make your eyes look smaller.
Another way to make your eyes look smaller is to use a shorter mascara wand. This will help to apply less mascara to your lashes, which will make them look smaller.
How can I make my eyes look bigger naturally?
There are a few natural ways to make your eyes look bigger. One way is to use a white eyeliner to line your waterline. This will help to create the illusion of a larger eyelid, which will make your eyes look bigger.
Another natural way to make your eyes look bigger is to use a nude eyeshadow to highlight your brow bone. This will help to create the illusion of a higher brow, which will make your eyes look bigger.
