How To Do Korean Eye Makeup

Have you ever wondered how Korean eye makeup achieves that perfect blend of subtlety and artistry? So have I, many times, usually while staring at the mirror trying to replicate those flawless looks seen on K-dramas and K-pop stars. Korean eye makeup isn’t just a way to emphasize the eyes; it’s almost like creating a masterpiece.

Before you go rummaging through your makeup drawer, it’d be a good idea to understand a bit more about the principles, techniques, and products involved in creating these stunning looks. Let’s break down the entire process, step by step, and get that glamorous Korean eye makeup you’ve always wanted.

Understanding the Basics

First things first, let’s get a grip on the underlying philosophy behind Korean eye makeup. Unlike Western makeup trends that often emphasize bold colors and dramatic lines, Korean eye makeup focuses on enhancing natural beauty and creating a youthful, fresh appearance. Think soft shades, gradient colors, and subtle lines that make the eyes appear larger and brighter.

Key Elements

Here are some key elements that are generally consistent across various Korean eye makeup styles.

ElementDescription
Soft ColorsUse of pastel and neutral shades to create a natural, soft look.
Gradient EffectBlending colors to achieve a gradient effect, making the eyes look more dimensional.
Puppy EyesLining the eyes in a way that emphasizes a rounder, puppy-like shape.
Aegyo-salHighlighting the under-eye area to make the eyes look more youthful and brighter.

Understanding these elements is crucial because they form the backbone of most Korean eye makeup styles. Each element strives to make the eyes appear larger, brighter, and more youthful.

Prepping Your Eyelids

First things first, prep those lids! Before applying any makeup, it’s essential to create a smooth canvas. This not only helps the makeup last longer but also enhances the colors and effects.

Primer

Primers are your best friend. They fill in any fine lines and give your eyeshadow something to stick to.

Concealer

I use concealer to even out the skin tone and hide any discoloration or veins that might be visible on the eyelids. Lightly dab it on with your finger or a beauty blender.

Applying Eyeshadow

Eyeshadow is where the magic really starts to happen. Korean eyeshadow application is distinctively different from Western methods, largely focusing on soft shades and gradient effects that add depth and dimension without being too loud.

Choosing the Right Palette

Soft browns, pinks, and peachy tones generally dominate Korean eye makeup. While you can go for more dramatic shades for a night out, for a daily look, sticking to these colors will keep things natural.

Gradient Techniques

The gradient eyeshadow technique is like a signature move in Korean makeup. The idea is to make the color transition smoothly from darker at the lash line to lighter as it moves upward toward the brow bone.

  1. Base Color – Apply a light, neutral base color over your entire eyelid. This sets the stage for whatever follows next.
  2. Mid-tone Color – Add a mid-tone color to the outer half of your eyelid and blend it inward.
  3. Darker Shade – Finally, apply a darker shade closest to your lash line and blend it upwards but not too high.

Step-by-step Gradient Eyes

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for achieving that perfect gradient effect:

  1. Start with a primer.
  2. Apply a base color. Use a fluffy brush to apply a neutral eyeshadow across the entire lid.
  3. Add a mid-tone shade. Focus on the outer half of your eyelid and gently blend it inward.
  4. Layer the darkest shade. Concentrate this color nearest your lash line and blend it upwards.

Eyeliner Techniques

Ah, eyeliner! The nemesis of many but also the hero of any eye makeup look. Korean eyeliner styles range from the understated to the more dramatic, but one thing is for sure—precision is key.

Types of Eyeliner

TypeDescription
GelGood for sharp lines and long-lasting wear.
LiquidIdeal for precision and darker lines.
PencilGreat for a softer look and easier to smudge for a smoky effect.

Puppy Eyes or Downturned Liner

You might have heard of “puppy eyes” in Korean makeup circles. This style aims to make the eyes look more rounded and innocent, like a puppy’s eyes.

Here’s how I usually do it:

  1. Draw a line. Start lining your eyes as close to the lash line as possible. Extend the line slightly downward at the outer corner.
  2. Smudge It. Use a smudging brush or a cotton swab to slightly blur the line for a softer look.

Kitten Liner

A subtle cousin to the famous cat-eye. Instead of a dramatic flick, go for a small, slightly upward flick that’s more modest but still adds a bit of flair.

Lush Lashes

Lashes can either make or break your look. While some people have natural lashes that look like a dream with just a swipe of mascara, others may need some help from falsies or eyelash extensions.

Mascara Application

Korean mascara tends to be lengthening and separating rather than volumizing. Here’s how you can achieve that doll-eyed look:

  1. Curl your lashes. Use an eyelash curler to give your lashes a lift.
  2. Apply mascara. Start from the base of your lashes and wiggle the wand as you go up. This ensures even application and separation.
  3. Second coat. Apply a second coat while the first coat is still slightly wet for additional length.

False Eyelashes

If you’re going for a more glamorous look, false eyelashes can make a significant difference. Choose ones that are more natural-looking for a daytime look, and reserve the more dramatic ones for special occasions.

Highlighting Aegyo-sal

Aegyo-sal, or the little puffy area under the eyes, is another distinctive feature of Korean eye makeup. It’s believed to make the eyes look more youthful and innocent.

How to Highlight

  1. Highlight. Using a light, shimmery eyeshadow, lightly go over the area directly under your lower lash line.
  2. Shade. Use a soft brown eyeshadow right under the highlighted area to create depth and make the aegyo-sal pop.

Products that Help

ProductPurpose
Shimmery EyeshadowFor highlighting the aegyo-sal.
Soft Brown EyeshadowFor shading below the highlighted area, creating depth.
Highlighter PenA targeted highlight for precise application.

Finishing Touches

We’ve got the major parts down, but a true masterpiece is in the details, right? Here are a few finishing touches that can elevate your look.

Inner Corner Highlight

A tiny bit of light eyeshadow or highlighter in the inner corners of your eyes can brighten up your entire look. Dab a bit with your pinky finger or a small brush.

Tightlining

Tightlining involves lining your upper waterline. This makes your lash line look fuller without a visible line of eyeliner. Use a waterproof pencil for this, so it doesn’t smudge all over.

Setting Spray

Set your look with a light mist of setting spray. This helps keep everything in place and gives your skin a fresh, dewy finish.

Practice Makes Perfect

Like any art form, perfection comes with practice. Don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts don’t look exactly the way you want them to. The more you practice, the easier and quicker it will become.

Product Recommendations

If you’re wondering about the best products to achieve these looks, here are some that have worked wonders for me:

Eyeshadows

BrandProduct
Etude HousePlay Color Eyes Palettes
3CEMulti Eye Color Palette
InnisfreeMy Eyeshadow Collection

Eyeliners

BrandProduct
ClioWaterproof Pen Liner
Tony MolyBackstage Gel Eyeliner
PeriPeraSpeedy Skinny Brow

Mascaras

BrandProduct
Etude HouseLash Perm Curl Fix Mascara
InnisfreeSkinny Microcara
Missha4D Mascara

Aegyo-sal Tools

BrandProduct
Etude HouseTear Drop Liner
Nature RepublicBotanical Shimmering Eye Stick
Holika HolikaEye Metal Glitter

Final Thoughts

Learning how to do Korean eye makeup is not just about following trends; it’s about embracing a philosophy that prides itself on enhancing natural beauty and expressing individuality subtly and elegantly. By understanding the key elements, practicing the techniques, and choosing the right products, you’ll soon find yourself mastering the look.

Who knew that playing with makeup could be so enriching? Not only does it boost your confidence, but it’s a fantastic form of self-expression. And who doesn’t need a bit more of that?

And that’s it! Your all-in-one guide to perfecting Korean eye makeup. Now, get that mirror, and start your masterpiece. Remember, the eyes are the window to the soul, so why not make them as captivating as possible?