The cut crease eye makeup technique has been a beauty game changer, adored for its ability to enhance the eyes by creating the illusion of a deeper crease and sharper definition. Whether you're heading to a glamorous event or simply want to add drama to your everyday look, the cut crease is versatile enough to suit any occasion. This guide will take you through everything you need to know to achieve a flawless cut crease.
A cut crease involves using contrasting eyeshadow shades to create a stark distinction between the eyelid and crease area. It visually lifts the eyes, making them appear larger and more defined. This bold look focuses on highlighting the crease of your eye by cutting across the natural contour with precision and artistry, often enhanced by shimmery or bright colors on the lid.
Before you start, apply an eyeshadow primer to create a smooth canvas for your makeup. This step is crucial because it ensures that your eyeshadow will last all day and prevents creasing. Blend the primer across your eyelids up to the brow bone.
Start by sweeping a neutral, matte eyeshadow across your crease and slightly above it. This will serve as your transition shade and help the darker colors blend smoothly later on. Use a fluffy blending brush to apply the shade in a back-and-forth motion, following the natural shape of your eye.
Now, it's time to add depth by applying a darker eyeshadow shade directly into the crease. Using a more tapered blending brush, concentrate the darker color where your eyelid naturally folds. Blend it inwards from the outer corner of your eye, but avoid bringing it onto the lid, as this area will remain clean for the cut crease. For a more dramatic look, you can gradually build up the darkness by adding more layers of the shadow.
This is the most critical step to achieving that crisp, defined crease. Take a concealer or a light eyeshadow base and a small, flat brush to "cut" through the darker shadow along your crease line. Begin at the inner corner of your eye and follow the curve of your natural crease, creating a smooth and sharp line that separates your lid from the crease. Don’t rush—precision is key to achieving a clean cut.
Pro Tip: If you have hooded eyes, create the cut crease slightly above your natural crease to make your eyes appear larger.
Once you've carved out the cut crease with concealer, it's time to apply your lid shade. Pat a shimmery, bright, or matte eyeshadow onto the area you've just cut out. A flat shader brush works best for packing on pigment, and you can opt for a metallic or glitter shade to add more drama. Make sure the edge between the lid color and the darker crease is sharp and clean.
To avoid harsh lines at the outer corner, blend the transition between the crease shadow and the lid shade for a seamless finish. Use a small blending brush and softly sweep the darker color into the outer edge of the lid to tie the look together without disturbing the crispness of the cut crease.
For added drama, use a black or dark eyeliner to line your upper lash line. You can create a bold wing to complement the sharpness of the cut crease or keep it simple with a thin line. This step helps frame your eyes and make them stand out even more.
Apply several coats of mascara to both your upper and lower lashes, ensuring that they are lengthened and volumized. If you want to take the look to the next level, add a pair of false lashes to enhance the drama of your cut crease. Choose lashes that are fuller at the outer corners for an even more cat-eye effect.
The cut crease is one of the most striking eye makeup techniques for adding depth and drama to your look. It may seem daunting at first, but with practice, patience, and the right tools, you can master this sophisticated and glamorous technique. Whether you're getting ready for a night out or just want to elevate your daily makeup routine, the perfect cut crease will have your eyes looking defined, lifted, and mesmerizing.