Eye shapes and how to apply makeup for each type

How to tell what eye shape you have

To identify your eye shape, stand in front of a mirror and observe these three key features: the shape and crease of the eyelid, the outer corner of the eye, and the iris.

• Almond eyes: the corners come to a point, they stand out for their size, and the iris is clearly the main feature. They are recognisable because the tear duct and outer corner are positioned at the same height.
• Round eyes: this type of eyes have a completely circular shape, and without any true definition at the inner and outer corners of the eye. The white of the eye is visible above and below the iris.
• Downturned eyes: the upper eyelid droops down over the eye and covers the area.
• Upturned eyes: the outer corners lengthen and lift above the tear duct. Moreover, the iris and the eyelid are not easily visible.

Almond eyes: how to apply makeup

This eye shape is the easiest to apply makeup to, as it suits all types of eyeshadow. The best approach is to use an infinite eyeliner pencil, starting with a finer line and finishing with a thicker one. As for the lashes, applying mascara that lengthens and defines them will enhance the almond shape.

Round eyes: how to apply makeup

Round eyes need makeup that creates an optical effect to elongate the eye. Therefore, eyeshadow should be applied in a straight line towards the temple, and the lower lashes should be defined outwards. For the eyeliner, draw a straight line starting from the inner corner.

Downturned eyes: how to apply makeup

Light colours that bring out its natural sparkle suit this eye shape, so shades such as beige or light brown work best. It's essential that the eyeliner is completely straight, avoiding a curved uptick at the outer corner.

Upturned eyes: how to apply makeup 

Makeup for this eye shape is key to adding depth to the eyes, so dark tones are the most suitable. As for the eyeliner, to add character to the face, draw a line starting fine up to the middle of the eye and then finish with a thicker line.

Close-set and wide-set eyes

Eyes are considered close-set when they sit very near the bridge of the nose, with the distance between them being less than the width of one eye. Makeup should aim to create a sense of greater width and separation. To achieve this, it helps to apply light, luminous eyeshadow to the tear gland area.

Wide-set eyes, on the other hand, are those where the distance between them is greater than the width of one eye. These are easy to balance out by using darker eyeshadow near the tear gland and then extending the eyeliner inwards.

Small eyes: tricks to make eyes look bigger

• Define the eyebrows with a filling pencil, keeping the shaping minimal.
• Cover any dark areas on your eyelids with a liquid concealer that matches your skin tone.
• Use eyeshadows in light tones that add brightness to your face.
• Use eyeliners that add depth to your eyes.
• Line the lower eyelid with a beige or white pencil.
• Give more definition to your lashes by adding volume and curling them.

Products and brushes you will need

• For almond eyes: mascara that adds extra volume to the lashes, and an eyeliner that is water resistant.
• For round eyes: brushes for applying eyeshadow.
• For downturned eyes: a light eyeshadow contour.
• For upturned eyes: liquid highlighter in a light shade, and an eyeliner with a thick tip.
• For close-set eyes: an eyeshadow that adds brightness to your face.
• For small eyes: a pair of tweezers with a straight tip is essential.