Does Eyeliner Make Your Eyes Look Smaller?

As someone who’s spent years in the makeup chair, both as a professional and a client, I’ve learned that makeup, especially eyeliner, holds a magical ability to transform the shape and size of your eyes. I often get asked, “Does eyeliner make eyes look smaller?” and it’s a great question. 

Eyeliner is one of those makeup staples that can either create the illusion of bigger eyes or make them appear smaller, depending on how it’s applied. And it’s not just about the product you use but also the technique—many clients now explore options like eyeliner tattoo Melbourne for a long-lasting, perfectly applied look.

Think of it like a well-crafted painting where the brushstrokes can either enhance the subject or pull attention away from it.

How Eyeliner Affects the Appearance of Your Eyes

When it comes to eye makeup, eyeliner is a powerful tool. It can visually manipulate the size and shape of your eyes, almost like creating an optical illusion. So how does eyeliner work its magic? Let’s break it down.

The Science Behind the Eyeliner Effect on Eyes

You’ve probably heard of the Delboeuf illusion, even if you don’t realise it. This visual phenomenon explains how two concentric circles (one inside the other) can appear differently sized depending on the diameter of the outer circle. 

Now, think of your eyes as the inner circle, and eyeliner, mascara, and eyeshadow as the outer circle. By darkening areas around your eyes, you can either exaggerate their size or make them appear smaller, based on where you place the makeup.

Also, did you know that the angle of eyeliner can trick the brain into perceiving a different eye shape? 

For example, when you apply eyeliner in an upward flick, your eyes can appear lifted and larger. But when it’s applied too thickly or with harsh lines, the eyes can seem closed off or smaller.

How Eyeliner Can Make Eyes Look Bigger

Many people (including myself at times) dream of having bigger, more awake eyes. Thankfully, makeup has the power to achieve that look. The key is in the techniques you use.

1. Use Nude or Pale Eyeliner on the Waterline

A simple trick to make your eyes appear instantly bigger is to apply a nude or pale eyeliner to your waterline—the skin between your eyeball and your lashes. 

This little area can often get overlooked, but when you use a pale pencil, like MAC’s Chromagraphic Pencil in NC15, it gives the illusion that your eyes are wider and more awake.

For years, I’ve recommended this to clients with small eyes, especially for evening looks when you need that “bright-eyed” effect without looking too overdone. The light colour brightens the whites of the eye, making them look larger without the harshness of white liner.

2. Avoid Dark Liner on the Lower Waterline

Now, this is one mistake I see often, and I’ve made it myself too. Dark eyeliner along the lower waterline can close off your eyes and make them appear smaller. 

If you’re aiming to look wide-eyed, it’s better to steer clear of inky black liner here. Instead, opt for lighter colours or just line the upper waterline to create the illusion of a thicker lash line.

3. Apply and Smudge Dark Liner or Shadow on the Lower Lash Line

When done right, dark eyeliner on the lower lash line can make your eyes look bigger. But, here’s the trick—apply it just at the lash line and smudge it slightly, extending it only to the outer third of your lower lashes. 

This keeps the look soft while adding depth, avoiding the “sinking” effect that happens when the line is too heavy or drawn all the way across.

Eyeliner Styles to Enhance Different Eye Shapes

Let’s talk about how different eyeliner styles work for different eye shapes. As someone who’s seen hundreds of clients, I can tell you: there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to eyeliner. Your eye shape should guide your choice of liner style.

Best Eyeliner Shapes for Small Eyes

Small eyes can sometimes feel like a challenge to enhance, but trust me, there are styles that will make them pop.

1. Thin Liner with a Flick

For small eyes, a thin line of eyeliner at the upper lash line is perfect. Too thick, and you’ll just close off the space. 

Start with a thin line at the inner corners of your eyes, then gradually increase the thickness as you move out towards the wing. A delicate flick at the end of the liner adds the illusion of a lifted, open eye.

I’ve used this technique on clients with small almond-shaped eyes, and it’s one of the most flattering looks that adds definition without overwhelming the eye. A sharp wing works wonders here.

2. Avoid Heavy Lines on the Upper Lid

If you have small eyes, avoid drawing a thick, solid line along the upper lid. Thick eyeliner can overpower your eyes and make them appear smaller. Instead, a soft, thin line near the lashes will make your eyes pop and still give them a bold look without shrinking them.

 

How to Use Eyeliner to Open Up Hooded or Close-Set Eyes

For hooded or close-set eyes, the goal is to create the illusion of more space.

1. Winged Eyeliner for Upturned Eyes

If you’ve got hooded eyes (like me when I’m tired), a well-placed wing can make a huge difference. A wing that flicks upwards at the outer corner will lift the eyes, making them appear more open. It adds definition to the eye shape and opens them up. A classic cat-eye look with an extended flick works wonders here.

2. Tightlining and Smudging for Close-Set Eyes

For close-set eyes, I recommend tightlining the upper waterline with black or dark brown eyeliner. This technique helps define the lash line without making the eyes appear smaller. 

Adding a little smudge of eyeliner on the lower lash line can also help give the eyes more depth, making them appear wider.

How to Make Eyes Appear Smaller with Eyeliner

While many people want to make their eyes look bigger, sometimes a smaller, sultry look is what you’re after.

Techniques for a Sultry, Smaller-Looking Eye

It’s all about creating depth. A dark, thick eyeliner around your eyes, particularly when applied along the lower lash line, can make them look smaller and more intense.

1. Line Only the Lower Lash Line

If you want to make your eyes appear smaller for a more sultry look, try lining just the lower lash line. Avoid the upper lid entirely, and use a dark pencil eyeliner to create a more defined, “closed-off” look. This technique is perfect for achieving a smokier, more dramatic style.

2. Line the Lower Waterline with Dark Color

Dark eyeliner on the lower waterline can shrink your eyes. While it might seem like a bold move, it’s ideal for making a statement. The darker, thicker the line, the more it will close off the eyes, which works well if you want to add a bit of drama.

The Role of Eyeliner in Enhancing Different Eye Sizes

Eyeliner isn’t just about making your eyes look larger or smaller; it’s also a tool to enhance your natural eye shape and bring out your best features. 

Depending on your eye size and shape, different eyeliner techniques will give you unique results. After all, makeup is about personal expression, so it’s essential to know what works for you.

Eyeliner for Small Eyes: Tips and Tricks

If you have small eyes, you may feel that eyeliner often closes them off. However, with the right techniques, eyeliner can open up your eyes and make them look bigger. Below are the best eyeliner tips for small eyes:

• Use a Thin Line: Avoid thick lines that cover most of the lid. Stick to a thin line along the upper lash line, gradually thickening as you reach the outer corner. This helps your eyes appear more elongated without being overwhelmed by the eyeliner.
• Add a Flick: A slight flick at the outer corner adds lift to your eyes. It’s subtle, yet effective in creating a larger look.
• Skip the Lower Lash Line: While it’s tempting to add liner to the lower lash line, it can make small eyes look smaller. If you do want to define the lower lashes, stick to a soft smudge along the outer third of the lash line.

Eyeliner for Larger Eyes: Adding Definition Without Overdoing It

For those with larger eyes, eyeliner can be used to create drama and definition, but there’s a fine balance. You don’t want to go overboard and make your eyes look too heavy. Here’s how you can make the most of eyeliner for larger eyes:

• Go Bold with the Lower Lash Line: If you have larger eyes, a bolder lower lash line can be used to balance out the size. Use a darker eyeliner and apply it all around the lower lashes to make them pop.
• Wing It: Larger eyes can handle a more dramatic wing. Use a thicker line with a sharp flick at the end to add definition and create an almond shape.

By understanding your eye size, you can use eyeliner to either enhance or minimise your features, achieving exactly the look you desire.

Key Eyeliner Techniques for Different Eye Shapes

Everyone’s eyes are unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to eyeliner. 

Depending on your eye shape, certain techniques will work better than others. The right eyeliner can enhance your natural eye shape, creating flattering results without making your eyes look smaller or larger than desired.

Eyeliner Techniques Based on Eye Shape

Below are some of the best eyeliner techniques for different eye shapes. Check the table for quick tips on how to apply eyeliner for your specific eye shape:

Eye Shape	Best Eyeliner Technique
Almond Eyes	Classic winged liner that accentuates the natural almond shape.
Round Eyes	Keep the line thinner and extend it slightly at the outer corner to create the illusion of an almond shape.
Hooded Eyes	Use a thin line close to the lashes with a winged flick at the outer corner to lift the eye.
Monolid Eyes	Opt for a thicker line that tapers out towards the outer corner to create depth and definition.
Downturned Eyes	Apply eyeliner with a lift at the outer corners, focusing on creating upward strokes.
Close-Set Eyes	Use a thin line that extends slightly past the outer corner to create balance.
Wide-Set Eyes	Apply eyeliner thicker at the inner corners and thinner as you move outwards.

The Most Common Eyeliner Myths That Can Alter Your Eye Size

There are so many myths when it comes to eyeliner. Let me clear some of them up for you.

Debunking the Myths: Does Dark Liner Always Make Eyes Look Smaller?

Dark liner on the waterline doesn’t always shrink your eyes. It’s about balance. When applied in the right spots—on the upper waterline or just along the outer corners—dark eyeliner can add dimension without closing your eyes off. It’s all about technique.

The Truth About Lining the Waterline

Here’s a myth that’s been floating around: black liner on the waterline will make your eyes pop. While black can define your eyes, using it on the waterline can close them off. Instead, opt for beige or nude eyeliner to make your eyes look brighter and more awake.

Eyeliner Myths and Facts: Enhancing Your Look Without Downsides

Makeup is about experimenting and finding what works best for you.

Eyeliner and Eye Shape: What Works Best for You

I’ve learned that there’s no right or wrong eyeliner shape—it all depends on your eye shape. I once worked with a client with almond eyes, and the winged liner technique really elevated her eye shape. 

But on round eyes, I would use a thinner line and a lighter shade to add a bit of definition without overwhelming the look.

Eyeliner is one of those makeup tools that, when used right, can change the whole look of your eyes. 

Whether you want to create bigger, brighter eyes or a sultry, smaller look, it’s all about understanding your eye shape and applying eyeliner in a way that enhances your natural features.