Eye makeup can make you look tired, highlight wrinkles, smear and look garish. Less is more may be a cliche, but in the makeup world it allows your true beauty to shine through. Properly applied eye makeup should bring attention to the positive aspects of your eyes while correcting any problems. It should make your eyes appear open, bright and alert.
Preparation
Before applying any makeup, clean your face and apply moisturizer with sun protection. Brush a light layer of concealer over your eyelid and under your eye before applying any shadow or liner. The concealer gives a better surface for the eye makeup to stick to and helps prevent problems, such as creasing. The makeup artist Kevyn Aucoin, in his book “Making Faces,” recommends applying a loose powder under the eye to catch any falling particles. Brush it off when you finish.
Tools
For the best-looking eye makeup application, use high-quality tools. Brushes allow you to blend eyeshadow, avoiding harsh lines. Invest in a cushioned eyelash curler and an eyebrow brush. An eyelash comb will remove any clumps of mascara and create a cleaner, natural look.
Eyeshadow and Eyeliner
You can have the most fun with makeup and create unlimited looks with eyeshadow and eyeliner. You can choose from many looks, from natural or classic to the smoky eye effect. Choose darker eyeliner shades, such as brown black or gray, to make the lashes appear fuller. When applying eyeshadow, tap off excess from the applicator to prevent smudging under the eye. Use a clean brush to blend colors. Save metallic colors and dramatic effects for special occasions. Follow Cosmetics Cop Paula Begoun’s advice, and use neutral colors for daily wear.
Mascara
Before you reach for the mascara, curl your lashes. It will give your eyes a more open, awake appearance. Apply a lash primer to condition the lashes and help set the mascara. Twist the mascara brush in the tube rather than pumping it. Start at the base of the lashes and wiggle the brush slightly as you pull it up and through the length.
Cleaning
Clean all of your tools regularly with rubbing alcohol to prevent infection. Remove all eye makeup before going to bed. The Food and Drug Administration advises against sharing makeup and applicators. When testing makeup at a store, check that the store offers single-use applicators to avoid contamination.
Photo Credit
- smokey brown eyes image by Leticia Wilson from Fotolia.com
