Deep set eyes are one of the most expressive ocular shapes within the range of human features. Their natural contour and shadow create a sculpted effect that makes the gaze look striking even without makeup. However, a strong brow bone can sometimes make glam time tricky because it can cast a shadow onto the lid, which makes the eyeliner vanish and the colors look less vibrant. The solution lies in correct placement techniques, and this guide will show you how to execute them properly. You’ll learn how to apply makeup for deep set eyes in minutes. We’ll throw in some tips to help you avoid beginner mistakes so that your peepers will always stand out.

How to Use Makeup for Deep Set Eyes: Tips and Tutorial

Generic makeup tutorials don’t always work for deep set eyes, which is why looks often fall flat. This quick routine will show you how to maximize your lid space and how to highlight the right spots for a well-defined eye makeup.

Step 1: Prep and Prime

Prepping and priming simply means creating a smooth base so your eyeshadow grips better. Dot a small amount of primer or concealer across your eyelid. Then, use your fingertip or a flat brush to spread the product evenly from the lash line to the brow bone. Doing so keeps your shadows from creasing and helps them last longer.

If you’re not sure where to start, try a lightweight option like the Urban Decay Primer Potion for all-day wear.

Step 2: Base Shade

Choose a light matte or satin shade such as ivory or beige. Using a fluffy shadow brush, sweep it across your whole lid and move upward toward under the brow. The bright base helps make the eyes look more open and fresh.

Step 3: Crease Work

Pick a mid-tone matte shade like taupe or soft brown. Next, grab a blending brush and apply it slightly above your natural crease in windshield-wiper motions to help lift the gaze.

Step 4: Highlight

Dip into a light shimmer or satin shade such as champagne then use a small brush or your pinky finger to tap it onto the inner corners of your eyes. You can also place a touch of sparkle on the center of the lid to brighten the eyeshadow further.

Step 5: Eyeliner

Take a pencil or gel liner and apply it close to the upper lash line. Keep the flick thin on the eyes’ inner corner, then slightly thicken it as you move toward the outer corner. For added brightness, line your lower waterline with a nude or white beauty pencil.

Step 6: Mascara

Using a lash curler, place it at the base of the hairs and gently press for a few seconds. Then, apply mascara by wiggling the wand at the roots and then sweeping it upward. Add extra coats to the outer lashes for extra volume.

Common Mistakes When Using Makeup for Deep Set Eyes 

Most shadow techniques work for all other ocular shapes but won’t flatter deep set eyes. Here are the most common pitfalls of hollow eye makeup and how to fix them:

  • Applying dark shadow all over the lid or directly into the crease often makes deep set eyes look even more sunken. Instead, keep the lid light and blend mid-tones just above the fold so they remain visible.
  • Drawing eyeliner too thin is another mistake, as very fine lines can disappear under the brow bone. Thickening the line slightly near the outer corner ensures that the tint doesn’t vanish once you open your eyes.
  • Using too much shimmer right under the eyebrows makes the arches stand out more and can make your eyelids look smaller. For hollow eyes, apply shimmer on the lid or inner corners to make the eyes appear more awake.

The Beauty Bottomline

Deep set eyes don’t need fixing, but makeup can help balance the pigments and prevent them from getting overshadowed. Once you understand the correct placement for your shape, you can adapt to an everyday or glam eye look without second-guessing. So try the routine above and let your best feature shine!

Did these tips help your deep set eyes stand out? Which one are you trying first?

FAQ

Q: What if my eyes are very deep set and my crease disappears?
A: Focus your blending slightly above the crease so your shadow still shows when your eyes are open.

Q: Can I wear smoky eyes?
A: Yes! Keep the darkest shades on the outer corners and balance with lighter tones on the lid and inner corner.

Q: What shades usually work best?
A: Light neutrals, champagne, soft golds, rose, and taupes are great. Keep dark browns or charcoals to the outer corners.