How to Wear Eyeshadow Under Your Eye: A Step-by-Step Guide

Eye makeup can add a dramatic touch to your overall look. But when it comes to eyeshadow application, the area under the eye is often overlooked. Wearing eyeshadow under your eye can give your eyes a more defined look and make them pop.

However, if you don’t apply it correctly, it can also make you look tired or create a messy look.

In this article, we’ll go over step-by-step how to wear eyeshadow under your eye and achieve a stunning look that enhances your natural beauty.

Why Wear Eyeshadow Under Your Eye?

Wearing eyeshadow under your eye can make your eyes look bigger and more defined. It’s an easy way to enhance your natural beauty and add a pop of color to your makeup look. When applied correctly, eyeshadow under your eye can create a beautiful and polished look that can take your makeup game to the next level.

Choosing the Right Eyeshadow Colors

Choosing the right eyeshadow colors is crucial when it comes to wearing eyeshadow under your eye. Darker shades tend to make your eyes look smaller, while lighter shades can make your eyes appear larger. It’s important to choose colors that complement your skin tone and eye color. For example, warm-toned shadows like bronze, gold, and peach are perfect for those with warm skin tones and brown eyes, while cooler-toned shadows like blues and purples work well for those with cool skin tones and blue or green eyes.

Prepping Your Skin for Eyeshadow Application

Before applying eyeshadow under your eye, it’s essential to prep your skin. Start by applying your foundation and concealer as you normally would. Then, using a setting powder, set your under-eye area to prevent creasing and smudging. This step will also help your eyeshadow blend more easily.

Applying Eyeshadow Under Your Eye

Now that your skin is prepped, it’s time to apply your eyeshadow under your eye.

Applying Eyeshadow Primer

To ensure your eyeshadow stays in place all day, start by applying eyeshadow primer under your eye. This will help the eyeshadow adhere to your skin and prevent creasing and smudging.

Choosing the Right Brush

Next, choose the right brush for the job. A small, tapered brush with soft bristles works well for applying eyeshadow under your eye.

Applying the Eyeshadow

Using your chosen eyeshadow color, lightly dab the brush into the eyeshadow, tapping off any excess. Then, starting from the outer corner of your eye, gently sweep the brush under your lower lash line towards the inner corner of your eye. Be sure to use a light hand and build up the color gradually. If you want to add more intensity to your look, you can also apply eyeshadow to the outer corner of your eye, blending it into the crease.

Blending the Eyeshadow

To ensure a seamless look, it’s essential to blend your eyeshadow under your eye. Using a clean, fluffy brush, blend the edges of your eyeshadow to create a soft and natural gradient. This step will also help prevent any harsh lines or patches of color.

Tips and Tricks for Eyeshadow Under Your Eye

Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect eyeshadow under your eye:

• To make your eyes appear even more defined, you can also apply a light-colored eyeshadow to the inner corners of your eyes.
• If you have deep-set eyes, applying a lighter shade of eyeshadow under your eye can help create the illusion of more prominent eyes.
• If you’re looking for a more dramatic look, you can also apply a darker shade of eyeshadow to the outer corner of your eye and blend it into the crease.
• To prevent fallout, place a tissue or a piece of tape under your eye while applying eyeshadow. This will catch any excess powder and prevent it from smudging your foundation or concealer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when wearing eyeshadow under your eye:

• Using too much product: Start with a small amount of eyeshadow and build up the color gradually to avoid a messy or uneven look.
• Not blending properly: Blending is key to achieving a seamless look. Take the time to blend your eyeshadow carefully to avoid harsh lines or patches of color.
• Skipping eyeshadow primer: Eyeshadow primer is essential for preventing creasing and smudging, so don’t skip this step.

The Dos and Don’ts of Wearing Eyeshadow Under Your Eye

Applying eyeshadow under the eye can be a great technique to enhance your eye makeup and create a more balanced, dramatic look. However, it’s important to follow some dos and don’ts to achieve a flattering result:

Do’s:

1. Do choose the right colors: Opt for eyeshadow colors that complement your skin tone and overall makeup look. For daytime or more subtle looks, choose neutral or lighter shades. For a dramatic evening look, you can experiment with darker or more vibrant colors.
2. Do blend well: Proper blending is crucial to create a seamless and well-blended look under the eye. Use a small, fluffy brush to softly blend the eyeshadow, avoiding any harsh lines or edges.
3. Do use a primer or base: To prevent eyeshadow from smudging or creasing under your eye, apply a thin layer of eyeshadow primer or concealer before applying the eyeshadow. This will help your makeup stay in place throughout the day.
4. Do apply in moderation: Start with a small amount of eyeshadow and build up the intensity gradually. This will help you achieve a more controlled, precise look without overdoing it.
5. Do balance the top and bottom: When applying eyeshadow under the eye, make sure to balance it with the eyeshadow applied on your upper lid. This will create a cohesive and harmonious look.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t apply too close to the waterline: Avoid applying eyeshadow too close to your waterline, as this can make your eyes appear smaller and may cause irritation. Instead, apply the eyeshadow just below the lower lash line.
2. Don’t use overly shimmery or glittery eyeshadows: Using too much shimmer or glitter under the eye can emphasize fine lines, wrinkles, and puffiness. Stick to matte or satin finishes for a more flattering look.
3. Don’t skip on setting your makeup: To avoid smudging or fading, set your under-eye makeup with a translucent powder or a powder eyeshadow in a similar color. This will help keep your makeup in place and looking fresh throughout the day.
4. Don’t overextend the eyeshadow: Avoid extending the eyeshadow too far beyond the outer corner of your eye, as this can create a droopy or unflattering effect. Keep the eyeshadow confined to the lower lash line, following the natural shape of your eye.
5. Don’t forget to clean up: If any eyeshadow falls or smudges under your eye during application, use a clean, damp makeup sponge or a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover to gently clean up the area.

Makeup Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Eyeshadow Under Your Eye

Applying eyeshadow under the eye can help enhance your overall makeup look, but there are some common mistakes to avoid in order to achieve a flattering result:

Skipping primer: Neglecting to use an eyeshadow primer or base under your eye can lead to smudging, creasing, and a less vibrant color payoff. Always apply a primer or concealer to ensure your eyeshadow stays put and looks its best.

Using the wrong brush: Applying eyeshadow with a brush that is too large or not designed for precise application can result in a messy, unblended look. Use a small, fluffy brush specifically designed for under-eye application to achieve a more polished result.

Overloading the brush: Picking up too much product on your brush can lead to fallout and make it difficult to blend the eyeshadow properly. Tap off any excess product from your brush before applying it under your eye.

Poor blending: Failing to blend the eyeshadow properly can create harsh lines and an unflattering appearance. Take the time to blend the eyeshadow seamlessly, using a small, fluffy brush and gentle back-and-forth or circular motions.

Applying eyeshadow too low: Placing eyeshadow too far below the lower lash line can create a droopy or tired appearance. Keep the eyeshadow close to the lash line and avoid extending it too far downward.

Overextending the eyeshadow: Avoid extending the eyeshadow too far beyond the outer corner of your eye, as this can create an unflattering, elongated look. Follow the natural shape of your eye and keep the eyeshadow confined to the lower lash line.

Using overly dark or bright colors: Choosing colors that are too dark or vibrant can make your under-eye area look heavy and emphasize dark circles or puffiness. Stick to more neutral or complementary shades for a more subtle, flattering effect.

Ignoring your eye shape: Different eye shapes may require different techniques for applying eyeshadow under the eye. Take the time to understand your eye shape and adjust your application method accordingly.

Forgetting to set your makeup: Failing to set your under-eye makeup can lead to smudging and fading throughout the day. Use a translucent powder or a powder eyeshadow in a similar color to set your makeup and keep it in place.

How to Wear Eyeshadow Under Your Eye for a Daytime Look

Wearing eyeshadow under your eye for a daytime look can enhance your eyes and add a subtle touch of depth and dimension. Here’s how to create a flattering daytime look with eyeshadow under your eye:

Choose the right colors: For a daytime look, opt for lighter, neutral shades, such as soft browns, taupes, or beiges. These colors will add definition without appearing too dramatic for daytime wear.

Prime your eyes: Apply a thin layer of eyeshadow primer or concealer under your eye to help the eyeshadow adhere better and last longer throughout the day.

Apply a base color: Use a fluffy eyeshadow brush to apply a light, neutral base color (such as a soft beige or cream) all over your upper eyelid, blending it up to your brow bone. This will create a smooth canvas for the rest of your eye makeup.

Define the upper lash line: With a small, angled brush, apply a slightly darker neutral shade (such as a taupe or soft brown) along your upper lash line to create subtle definition.

Apply eyeshadow under the eye: Using a small, flat brush or a smudge brush, gently apply the same neutral shade you used on your upper lash line to your lower lash line, starting from the outer corner and stopping around two-thirds of the way in. Keep the color close to the lash line to avoid a heavy, overdone appearance.

Blend and soften: With a clean, small, fluffy brush, gently blend the eyeshadow under your eye, using back-and-forth or circular motions to create a soft, diffused look.

Brighten the inner corner: Apply a small amount of a light, shimmery eyeshadow to the inner corner of your eye to brighten and open up your eyes.

Curl your lashes and apply mascara: Finish your daytime look by curling your lashes and applying a coat of mascara to both your upper and lower lashes. This will help to further define your eyes and create a more polished appearance.

Conclusion

Wearing eyeshadow under your eye can add a beautiful and polished touch to your makeup look. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve a stunning eyeshadow look that enhances your natural beauty. Remember to choose the right eyeshadow colors, prep your skin properly, and blend carefully for a seamless look. Happy makeup application!

FAQs

How do I choose the right eyeshadow colors for my skin tone?

For warm skin tones, opt for warm-toned shadows like bronze, gold, and peach. For cool skin tones, cooler-toned shadows like blues and purples work well.

Do I need to apply eyeshadow primer before applying eyeshadow under my eye?

Yes, applying eyeshadow primer will help your eyeshadow stay in place all day and prevent creasing and smudging.

Can I wear eyeshadow under my eye if I have wrinkles or fine lines?

Yes, but it’s important to choose a shade that complements your skin tone and eye color and apply it lightly to avoid emphasizing wrinkles or fine lines.

How do I prevent fallout when applying eyeshadow under my eye?

Place a tissue or a piece of tape under your eye while applying eyeshadow to catch any excess powder and prevent it from smudging your foundation or concealer.

How do I remove eyeshadow from under my eye without ruining the rest of my makeup?

Use a cotton swab or a small, flat brush dipped in makeup remover to gently remove any eyeshadow from under your eye. Be sure to be gentle and avoid rubbing or tugging at your skin.