Achieving the perfect smokey eye look can be a daunting task for many people. It requires a combination of technique, skill, and the right products to create the ideal blend of dark, smoky colors. But fear not! In this article, we will guide you through each step of creating the perfect smokey eye look.
Prepping the Eyes
Before we begin, it is essential to prep the eyes properly. This includes cleansing the skin around the eyes, applying a hydrating eye cream, and using an eyeshadow primer to prevent creasing and help the eyeshadow adhere better. A properly prepped eye area will ensure that your smokey eye look lasts longer and appears more vibrant.
Choosing the Right Products
The key to creating a perfect smokey eye look is choosing the right products. You will need a range of dark eyeshadows in different textures such as matte, satin, and shimmer finishes. Additionally, black eyeliner, a blending brush, and a smudge brush are essential tools to have on hand. When selecting eyeshadows, it is best to choose a combination of cool and warm tones to create depth and dimension in the look.
What will you need?
To create the perfect smokey eye look, you will need several makeup tools and products. Here is a list of some essential items you will need:
- Eyeshadow primer: This is the first product you will need to create the perfect smokey eye look. It will help your eyeshadow stay put and prevent creasing.
- Eyeshadow palette: You will need a palette with a range of shades to create a smokey eye look. Neutral shades like black, gray, and brown work best.
- Eyeliner: You will need dark eyeliner to create a dramatic look. Black or dark brown work best.
- Mascara: Mascara is essential to finish off the look. It will help define your lashes and make your eyes pop.
- Makeup brushes: You will need several brushes to apply the eyeshadow and blend the colors together.
- Cotton swabs: Cotton swabs are useful for cleaning up any mistakes or smudges.
- Makeup remover: This is an essential item to have on hand in case you make any mistakes or need to start over.
By having all of these items on hand, you will be able to create the perfect smokey eye look with ease.
How to Do Smokey Eye Makeup for Beginners
Step 1: Prime Your Lid
Before diving into eyeshadow application, it’s crucial to prime your lid. This step helps your eyeshadow last longer and prevents creasing or fading. You can either use an eyeshadow primer or a concealer that matches your skin tone. Apply it evenly all over your lid and blend it seamlessly using your finger or a brush.
Step 2: Choose Your Eyeshadow Colors
A typical smokey eye consists of three essential shades: a light base color, a medium crease color, and a dark outer corner color. While you can experiment with different shades, common choices include greys, browns, blacks, purples, or blues. For a natural look, opt for matte eyeshadows; for a more dramatic effect, go for shimmery ones.
Step 3: Apply Your Base Color
Using a flat shader brush, apply the lightest eyeshadow across your entire lid, from the lash line to the brow bone. This initial step creates a smooth canvas for the other colors and makes them stand out more vibrantly.
Step 4: Apply Your Crease Color
With a fluffy blending brush, apply the medium eyeshadow to your crease – the area between your lid and your brow bone. Use gentle windshield wiper motions to blend the color back and forth, ensuring a soft transition from the base color. For added drama, extend the crease color slightly beyond the outer corner of your eye to create an elongated shape.
Step 5: Apply Your Outer Corner Color
To intensify your smokey eye, use a smaller shader brush or a pencil brush to apply the darkest eyeshadow to the outer third of your lid, close to the lash line. Then, blend this color into the crease, forming a V-shape at the outer corner of your eye. This technique adds depth and dimension to your look.
Step 6: Apply Eyeliner
Enhance your smokey eye by applying eyeliner along your upper and lower lash lines. You have various options, including pencil, gel, liquid, or powder eyeliner. For a smudged and smoky effect, consider using a pencil or gel eyeliner, and then blend it using a small brush or a cotton swab.
Step 7: Apply Mascara
Finish your smokey eye by applying one or two coats of black mascara to your upper and lower lashes. This simple step makes your eyes appear larger and more defined. For an extra touch, curl your lashes before applying mascara for added lift and curl.
FAQs
Q: How do I prevent my smokey eye from looking too dark? A: To avoid an overly dark look, start with lighter shades and build up gradually. You can always add more depth by layering darker eyeshadows as needed.
Q: Can I use colorful eyeshadows for a smokey eye? A: Absolutely! While traditional smokey eyes use neutral shades, you can experiment with colorful eyeshadows to create unique and vibrant looks.
Q: What brush should I use for blending? A: A fluffy blending brush works best for creating seamless transitions between eyeshadow colors. It ensures a soft and well-blended result.
Q: Should I apply eyeshadow to my lower lash line? A: Applying eyeshadow to the lower lash line can enhance the smokey effect, but it’s optional. Use a lighter shade for a subtle look or a darker shade for more drama.
Q: Can I use waterproof mascara for a long-lasting finish? A: Yes, waterproof mascara can help your smokey eye last longer, especially in humid conditions or if you expect to shed a few tears of joy.
Q: How do I remove smokey eye makeup? A: To remove smokey eye makeup, use a gentle makeup remover or micellar water. Apply it to a cotton pad and carefully wipe away the eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of smokey eye makeup for beginners is all about practice and experimentation. With the right tools, techniques, and a little creativity, you can achieve stunning smokey eyes that are perfect for any occasion. So, embrace your inner makeup artist and get ready to dazzle with your captivating gaze!
