Does Concealer Make your Eyes Look Smaller? Here's why!

Concealer is a staple makeup product, but it can make your eyes look smaller if used incorrectly.

We all know that concealer is supposed to help us look younger and more refreshed. But if it’s not applied properly, it can have the opposite effect on the eyes, making them appear smaller.

In this article, you’ll learn the proper application techniques and makeup tips to make your eyes stand out with concealer.

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Why does concealer makes your eye look smaller?

Concealer can give the illusion of smaller eyes, and there are many reasons why this happens. It’s either because you’re applying your concealer so close to the lash line, or you’re using the wrong shade or formula. Applying an incorrect shade can make your dark circles look grey, making your eyes look smaller.

To avoid getting smaller eyes with concealer, follow these simple tips:

Avoid the lower lashline

When applied directly along the lower lash line, concealer can make your eyes look smaller. If you blend the concealer too close to the bottom lashes, it can create the illusion of smaller eyes.

Conceal away from your lash line, focusing on the dark circles under your eyes.

Don’t cover the natural shadows directly below your lower lashline to retain your eyes’ shape and definition. Let them show through to get a natural but defined look.

If you accidentally get close to the lash line, you can fix the situation by using a cotton swab. Apply a gentle makeup remover and remove the excess product under your eyes.

If you don’t have dark circles under your eyes, apply concealer on the eye’s inner corner and outer corner. Generally, these areas appear darker for most people. Using a concealer that’s one shade lighter than your skin tone can help illuminate these areas. This tip can draw attention to the eyes, which helps to make them look bigger.

Blend the concealer seamlessly with a brush or makeup sponge.

Apply the product left on the brush to the under-eye area to get an even look and avoid any harsh lines.

I learned this technique from Wayne Goss, and he did a helpful tutorial to explain this trick. The video is helpful, especially for people who struggle with under-eye bags.

On the other hand, many people might have discoloration on the area under the lower lashline. In this case, these people can’t skip the step of applying concealer on the lower lashline. To avoid the eyes from looking smaller, blending a light to medium brown eyeshadow along the lower lash line can help bring back definition to the eyes.

Choose the right shade

A concealer that is two shades lighter than your skin tone may make your under-eye area look grey. On the other side, choosing a dark shade can make your concealer look orange. As a result, your eyes might appear smaller and deeper.

When shopping for a new concealer, choose one with the exact shade match of your skin tone or ONE shade lighter. Make sure it matches your exact undertone too.

For example, if you have warm undertones, look for a concealer with yellow or orange tones. For cool undertones, use a concealer with pink undertones.

There are many tests you can do to find your undertone.

The easiest one is to check the color of your veins. If your veins are blue or purple, you might have cool undertones, and people with green veins might have warm undertones. If you find your veins in-between the two, you have neutral undertones.

Choose a Lightweight Concealer Formula

To get a fresh and radiant look, use a lightweight concealer. Avoid heavy concealers that might separate under the eyes. These concealers can make your eyes look deeper and smaller.

Opt for an illuminating concealer instead. These concealers highlight the under-eye area, making your eyes look bigger and more defined. Many great illuminating concealers are available on the market, and they have silky and hydrating formulas that help give the skin a radiant look.

If you have dry under eyes, apply a lightweight eye cream to nourish the skin. This helps to prepare the under-eye area for the makeup application, and it can also prevent the concealer from looking dry and creasing into fine lines and wrinkles. Apply a small amount and let it get fully absorbed before going on with your concealer on top.

Less is More

Concealer is different than foundation, and it gives more coverage which means that applying a thick layer may cause it to appear cakey.

A little concealer goes a long way, and too much of it can make your under eyes look heavy. To make your eyes stand out with concealer, apply a small amount where you need it the most.

Apply it in natural lighting close to a window so that you can blend it flawlessly. Let the concealer sit before blending so that it melts into your skin. Use a brush or a damp makeup sponge to dab gently for a flawless finish.

Final Thoughts

You can follow many tips and tricks to prevent concealer from making your eyes look smaller.

Dark circles can make you look exhausted, so make sure to conceal those areas first.

Applying your concealer right under the lower lashline can give the illusion of smaller eyes. To help open up the eyes, avoid applying your concealer all the way up and focus on the inner and outer corners of the eyes instead.

Choose the correct shade and make sure to find a concealer with the same undertone.

Using a very lightweight concealer can cause your under eyes to look ashy, which makes your eyes look smaller.

The under-eye area is delicate, so use a lightweight illuminating formula to make your eyes stand out. Apply a small amount and blend seamlessly for a radiant look.

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