Bold and beautiful eyes: 13 expert tips to master the eye makeup

Eye makeup comes in various textures such as shimmer, glitter, pearl, satin, multi-chrome, foiled and matte, etc. Understanding these textures and then picking eyeshadows can help you achieve your desired look more easily (Image: Canva)

Eye makeup is essential for expressing personality and enhancing your appearance. A swipe of mascara and a line of eyeliner can transform a dull look into something charming, turning tired eyes into a focal point of confidence. This is the beauty of eye makeup. Each brush of eyeshadow adds depth and vibrancy, shifting your reflection from ordinary to striking and reflecting the day’s mood, whether bold, playful, or elegant.

With the right techniques and products, eye makeup can help improve your eye shape, define your features, and create various looks from subtle to dramatic. It makes your eyes appear brighter and more vibrant.

Sabhyata Bali, Founder & CEO, Zygos Beauty, shares these 13 useful tips to master your eye makeup:

Proper eye makeup: Before you start your eye makeup, it is important to prep your eyelids to ensure how good your eye makeup will turn out, hence understanding your eyelid is important for longevity. For those with oily eyelids, avoid using eye creams on the lid or oil-based cleansers before starting your eye makeup. These can add to the oiliness and make your makeup slip. Instead, consider using a primer to help your eyeshadow adhere better.

Choose the right  base: Selecting the right base is essential. Use a self-setting base that allows your eyeshadow to stick and blend seamlessly. Consider using a matte concealer that is mineral-free or silicone-free to ensure it holds your eyeshadow well without making it slip.

Master the smoky eye look: A smoky eye is a foundation for many eye makeup looks, such as cut creases and glitter smokey eyes. Once you master the smoky eye blend, you can easily create other looks. The key is in achieving the right blend, which can perfect any eye makeup.

Play with colours: If you enjoy using colours but aren’t sure how to pick the right shades, think of creating an ombre effect. For example, if you want a blue ombre eyeshadow look, search for a gradient of blue and pick the colours in that gradient you see from your palette. Blending these together will create a beautiful gradient in your eyes.

Explore the colour wheel: If you are a beginner, you can use the colour wheel to choose complementary colours that enhance your eye colour. For instance, purples and greens make brown eyes pop, while bronze and gold highlight blue eyes. This is a great way to start your eye makeup journey.

Use the right tools: The tools you use are critical. Larger brushes give a softer pigment, making them ideal for everyday looks. For packing on colour or creating a smoky eye, use denser brushes. Smaller brushes offer better control, especially when working with dark colors or creating smoky eyeliners.

Understand the eye shape: Knowing your eye shape and placing colours accordingly is important. For example, if your makeup disappears when you open your hooded eyes, try applying eyeshadow while looking straight in the mirror. This helps you see how the makeup will look when your eyes are open. Experimenting with different techniques can help you find what works best for your eye shape.

Explore different textures: Eye makeup comes in various textures such as shimmer, glitter, pearl, satin, multi-chrome, foiled and matte, etc. Understanding these textures and then picking eyeshadows can help you achieve your desired look more easily.

Start with basic colours: Beginners can start by using their blush and bronzer as eyeshadow and gradually add a neutral eyeshadow palette. Neutral tones vary for everyone, so choose according to your preference. Neutrals are defined as browns for some and peach or pink for someone else. Do what you love, there are many affordable and luxury options available.

Try cream and liquid shadows: Cream and liquid eyeshadows are great for beginners as they don't require tools or precision. Simply apply them with your finger, blend, and you're ready to go. They come in various colours, from fun brights to neutral shades.

Add finishing touches: Eyeliner and mascara can level up your eyeshadow look. Experiment with graphic liners, winged liners, or smoky liners to find what you like best.

Details: Adding small details can make your eye makeup look professional. Carving your eyebrows and eyeliner with concealer can give a sharp, professional effect.

False eyelashes: False lashes can take your mascara look to the next level. Start with small, half lashes, which are easier to apply and add volume to your lashes.