It’s not always that easy to create a flawless eye makeup look, whether it’s a sultry smokey eye or a sharp cat eye. According to Paula Soroa, a celebrated makeup artist who has worked with stars like Dakota Johnson and Catherine Deneuve, mastering your technique is the key to getting it perfect every time.
Soroa, who has over 20 years of experience and has collaborated with beauty giants like L’Oréal and Shiseido, knows what it takes to make an eye makeup that lasts and stands out. But even seasoned beauty enthusiasts can fall into certain traps, and there’s one mistake Soroa sees time and again.
The biggest eye makeup mistake
To achieve a polished eye makeup look, you should start with the basics: prep your eyelids with a good eye primer to ensure the shadow stays put and colors pop. When it comes to eyeliner, the possibilities are endless. From pencil to liquid, each type offers a different finish—whether you want a soft, smudged look or a more defined line. However, the way you apply your liner is just as important as the product itself.
According to Soroa, the biggest mistake people make is stretching their eyelids when applying eyeliner. While this habit may seem helpful in achieving a smoother application, it often leads to a misaligned or uneven line once the skin returns to its natural position. Over time, repeatedly pulling at the delicate eyelid skin can also contribute to premature wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
To avoid this, Soroa suggests holding the liner steady and applying it in short, precise strokes without tugging at the skin. For those who struggle with shaky hands, a felt-tip eyeliner pen can offer more control, while a gel liner paired with an angled brush brings greater precision. Regardless of the tool, keeping your eyelid in its natural position will help maintain the correct shape and ensure your makeup stays put all day long.
Top tips for perfect eye makeup
Let’s review the main expert tips you need to apply if you want your next eye makeup to be flawless:
- Prep your eyelids: Always start with eye primer to keep your shadow vibrant and long-lasting.
- Blend transitions: Use a blending brush to create smooth transitions between colors.
- Layering: Build up colors gradually to avoid harsh lines and create depth.
- Highlight the inner corners: Adding a bit of shimmer to the inner corners of your eyes can brighten up your look.
- Curl your lashes: Use an eyelash curler before applying mascara for an instant lift.
- Choose the right brushes: Invest in high-quality, specific brushes for each type of makeup to achieve precise application and superior blending.
Ready for your best eye makeup ever?
To master the art of eye makeup, you must refine your techniques and avoid common pitfalls. Now you know it: resist the temptation and avoid stretching the eyelid during eyeliner application. As Paula Soroa advises, focus on a gentle technique that protects your skin and brings the best results. With this expert tip in mind, you’re on your way to creating the eye makeup look that best highlights your features.