Emily Flores
Wish your eyes could look a little bigger without filters or surgery? Turns out, it’s less about magic and more about method. A few clever makeup tricks and skincare swaps can change everything—no glitter explosion required. Ready to fake eight hours of sleep and get compliments you didn’t ask for? We’re starting with the makeup musts, so grab your eyeliner and let’s dive in!
Use White Or Neutral Eyeliner On Your Waterline
A neutral or white eyeliner applied to the waterline extends the visible whites of the eyes, creating a larger, more open appearance. In contrast, darker liners can visually shrink the eyes. This technique gained popularity in the 1960s for its striking doe-eyed effect.
Curl Your Lashes For An Instant Eye Lift
Using a lash curler can instantly enhance eye visibility by lifting lashes away from the eyes. Heated lash curlers give a more pronounced and lasting lift than traditional tools—ideal for countering the shadowy effect of straight lashes.
Apply Mascara Strategically
Want that lifted, wide-eyed look? Load up mascara on your outer lashes. Just don’t let it clump, as clumpy lashes make your eyes look droopy. Japanese mascaras, like the Imju Dejavu Fiberwig, are a smart pick if you’re after serious length without the mess.
Use A Lifted Winged Eyeliner Instead Of Heavy Lines
Using a softly drawn winged eyeliner can instantly elevate your look by elongating the eye and guiding focus outward. It’s a timeless trick, rooted in vintage Hollywood glam, that subtly defines the lid while creating a graceful and refined eye shape.
Apply Under-Eye Concealer For A Brightening Effect
Another way to make eyes seem larger is to use under-eye concealer. It increases the contrast between the eyes and the skin. However, applying it carefully, especially in a triangle shape, is key. Poor technique may lead to an overly flat or unnatural appearance.
While makeup can create the illusion of larger, brighter eyes, skincare lays the foundation. Healthy, hydrated skin around the eyes enhances every cosmetic step, making each effect more pronounced and long-lasting.
Use Caffeine-Based Eye Cream To Reduce Puffiness
Puffiness under the eyes reduces visible lid space, making the eyes appear smaller. Caffeine-based creams help by constricting blood vessels, which eases swelling. Fun fact: This treatment is popular with celebrities who need an instantly refreshed look before photo shoots!
Try Eye Masks Infused With Green Tea Extract
Tired eyes? Pop on a cooling mask with green tea extract. The Japanese have leaned on green tea for skin care for centuries, and it’s still a go-to. Green tea helps bring down morning puffiness and gives your skin a much-needed refresh.
Use Aloe Vera Gel For A Natural Cooling Effect
Aloe vera offers a natural way to reduce puffiness and soothe irritated skin. Its hydrating benefits also help prevent dryness around the eyes. Historically, it has also played a role in Indian beauty traditions focused on skin renewal and care.
Apply Vitamin C Serum To Brighten Dark Circles
Just like the concealer, a Vitamin C serum also helps reduce dark circles, which makes the eyes appear smaller. Citrus extracts, known for these benefits, have a long history in beauty care as they also encourage collagen production for smoother skin.
Hydrate With Hyaluronic Acid-Based Serums
Hyaluronic acid helps restore volume by deeply hydrating the skin around the eye area. This results in a more youthful and refreshed look, unlike dehydrated skin that can cause the eyes to appear sunken. Such a hydration-first approach is also the cornerstone of Korean skincare philosophy.