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We've all had those mornings when our eyelids feel heavier than our coffee cups. Whether genetics, lack of sleep, or just life being life, droopy eyelids can make your eyes look smaller, tired, and not as snatched as you'd like.
But the good news is that you can fake a lifted, wide-awake look with the right makeup tricks without using a needle or a filter.
What causes droopy eyelids?
Before we fix it, let's quickly discuss what we're working with. Droopy eyelids (also known as ptosis) can be genetic, caused by aging, or temporarily caused by things like lack of sleep or allergies. Basically, your upper lids start to sit lower than usual, hiding your crease and making your eyes look smaller or sad.
But makeup? Makeup is magic.
The key is about lifting and opening
Your goal here is to lift the eye visually and create more lid space. You're creating an optical illusion. So, if you're ready to level up your eye game, here's how to enlarge droopy eyes with makeup like a pro:
Prime like a queen
Start with an eyeshadow primer or a lightweight concealer. This evens out any discoloration on your lids and prevents creasing, especially if you have oily eyelids or extra skin. Plus, your eyeshadow will cling better and stay fresh all day.
Pro tip: Use a slightly lighter concealer to brighten the lid instantly.
Define your crease (even if you can't see it)
Here's the secret: fake your crease above your natural one. Use a matte taupe or neutral brown shadow and apply it slightly higher than where your lid folds. This gives the illusion of a more lifted eye and adds instant depth.
Skip the shimmer in the crease. It reflects light and brings attention to droopiness. Stick with matte shades to push things back visually.
Lift with eyeshadow placement
Instead of following your natural eye shape, think up and out. Apply your outer corner shade in a soft wing shape, blending it diagonally towards the tail of your brow. It's basically an eyeshadow facelift.
Avoid: Pulling your eyeshadow downwards, which can make your eyes look even more droopy.
Ditch heavy eyeliner (or fake it smartly)
A thick black liner can quickly close off your lid space, especially if your eyelid already hides part of it. Try a thin line along the top lash line, keeping it super close to your lashes.
Hack: Use a dark eyeshadow instead of a pencil for a softer, more lifted look. Smudge it for that effortless eye lift.
Brighten your waterline
This one's a game-changer. Line your lower waterline with a nude or white pencil to make your eyes pop and look instantly bigger.
Pair it with a light champagne shimmer in the inner corners, and boom, your eyes are wide awake even if you stayed up binge-watching reality TV.
Curl your lashes
Curled lashes = lifted everything. Don't skip this step. Follow up with a volumizing mascara focused on the outer lashes to pull the eyes outward.
Extra lift: Try a half lash or corner lash on the outer ends only. It gives a sexy, foxy eye without dragging the eye down.
Keep brows lifted and fluffy
Your brows frame your whole face, especially your eyes. A lifted brow makes a huge difference. Use a brow pencil to slightly lower the tail, then brush those babies up with brow gel.
Avoid droopy tails that point downward; they'll undo all your hard work.