If you're one of the many people blessed with downturned eyes, you know the struggle of applying makeup to create a lifted, wide-awake effect. Eyeliner, in particular, can be a minefield, but with the right techniques and products, you can accentuate your eyes and achieve the desired look. Let's delve into a step-by-step guide on how to apply eyeliner for downturned eyes, along with some pro tips and product recommendations.
Before we dive in, let's understand downturned eyes. Characterized by the outer corner of the eye being lower than the inner corner, downturned eyes can make you appear tired or sad. But the right eyeliner technique can transform your eyes, making them appear larger and more lifted.
Choosing the Right Eyeliner
Choosing an eyeliner that's easy to apply and suits your skills is crucial. Liquid eyeliners offer precision but require a steady hand. Gel eyeliners are blendable and easy to control, while pencil eyeliners are great for simple elines and smudging.
Some recommendations include NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner for its precision and intense pigment, Kavarretti Beauty Gel Eyeliner for its blendability and long-wear, and Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner for its affordability and ease of use.
Master the Flick
The most impactful way to lift downturned eyes is to create an eyeliner flick or wing. This draws attention to the outer corner of your eye, making it appear higher and more lifted.
Start by applying your eyeliner along your lash line, as close to the lashes as possible. At the outer corner, rather than simply extending the line, create a small triangle or flick by extending the line upwards and then connecting it to the outer edge of your lash line. For a more dramatic effect, create a larger flick, but remember, less is more when you're starting out.
Upper Lid eyeliner
For a more subtle lift, apply your eyeliner along your lash line, thickening the line as you reach the outer corner of your eye. This will create the illusion of a higher eye socket. You can also try a reverse wing, where the line reaches a point at the inner corner of your eye, emphasizing the lift.
After applying your eyeliner, use a cotton bud soaked in makeup remover to clean up any mistakes and create a smooth, crisp line. Set your eyeliner with a setting spray or translucent powder to prevent smudging.
Lower Lid eyeliner Techniques
The lower lid can also affect the appearance of downturned eyes. By using certain eyeliner techniques, you can balance out your eyes and create a lifted effect.
Thicker Line on the Outer Lid
Applying a thicker line of eyeliner along your lower lash line, especially at the outer corner, can help lift your eyes. This works by emphasizing the outer corner of your eye, making it appear higher. To avoid closing off your eye, make sure the line tapers off towards the inner corner.
Reverse Wing
Similar to the reverse wing on the upper lid, applying a line of eyeliner along your lower lash line that thickens at the inner corner can help lift downturned eyes. This technique draws the eye inwards, making your lower lid appear smaller and your eyes appear more wide-awake.
Remember, the key to applying eyeliner for downturned eyes is practice. Don't be afraid to make mistakes - they're part of the learning process. With time and patience, you'll master the techniques and become a pro at creating a lifted, wide-awake effect with your eyeliner. So, grab your eyeliner, look in the mirror, and let's transform those downturned eyes!