For many of us, eye makeup can feel like a high-stakes game. One tiny smudge, an uneven line, or a little too much shadow can leave your eyes looking tired, hollow, or just off. It’s easy to see why some people avoid it altogether — sometimes it feels like the hassle isn’t worth the payoff. Between winged liners, smoky shadows, and perfectly blended creases, eye makeup can seem intimidating, especially when it feels like everyone on Instagram has it down to a flawless art.
But creating a beautiful eye look is often much simpler than it seems, and the secret usually comes down to the old saying “less is more.” To help us navigate the tricky world of eye makeup, one professional makeup artist is sharing three of the biggest eye. makeup mistakes people make and how to avoid them. The next time you sit down to create a gorgeous eye makeup look, avoid these three mistakes.
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1. Using Black Eyeliner
While black eyeliner can look dramatic and striking, using it on the waterline or all around the eyes can actually make them appear smaller, darker, and more tired. The harsh contrast can emphasize shadows and hollows, especially if your eyes are naturally deep-set or if you’re going for a softer daytime look. Instead, try using a dark brown or charcoal liner for a more natural definition, and consider lining just the upper lash line to open up your eyes and make them look brighter. Blending it really well can also create a softer, more flattering effect.
2. Shimmer on the Brow Bone
A touch of shimmer on the brow bone might seem like it will highlight and lift your eyes, but it can actually draw attention to any puffiness or fine lines in that area, making your eyes look more tired. Instead, stick to a subtle matte or satin shade that complements your skin tone to gently lift and define the brow area without emphasizing creases. This can create a natural, fresh look that brightens your eyes without overdoing it.
3. Dark Eyeshadow on the Eye Crease
Placing a dark shadow directly in the crease of your eyelid can create a deep, hollow effect that makes the eyes appear sunken or fatigued, especially if it’s not blended properly. Dark colors in this area can also exaggerate natural shadows, making your eyes look smaller. The trick is to use lighter, matte shades in the crease to softly define it, or blend darker shades slightly above the crease for depth without weighing the eyes down. This technique opens up the eye area and gives a more youthful, lifted appearance.
