How to Apply Eye Shadow Like A Top Model

Learn to apply eye makeup like a pro.

Top models have eyes that pop because of the way they use eye shadow and mascara, whether it's dark and smoky or vibrant and colorful. You can copy the makeup style of a professional model in the privacy of your own bathroom -- without having a professional makeup artist to apply it. Combine three shades of eye shadow from the same color family to create the top model look you want to achieve.

Things You'll Need

• Eye shadow brushes
• Eye makeup
• Cotton swabs
• Mascara
• Eyelash brush

Instructions

1. Apply an eye shadow base to your eyelid with your finger or an eye shadow brush. Eye shadow base, which comes in white and skin tones, is like a primer for your eye shadow. It enhances the color and helps keep it in place.

2. Sweep an eye shadow brush back and forth in the darkest color eye shadow you want to use. Tap your brush against a tissue to remove any excess eye shadow. Sweep the brush across the bottom half of your eyelid. Start at the inside of your eye, the side closest to your nose, and work your way out. Remove the remaining eyeshadow from your brush by wiping it off on a tissue.

3. Place a second shade of eye shadow on your brush. It should be slightly lighter than the first color and from the same color palette. Apply the eye shadow to the middle of your eyelid. Start on the inner eyelid next to your nose and work your way out. Remove the eyeshadow from the brush by tapping it against the tissue.

4. Apply the lightest color of eye shadow to your brush. Apply the eyeshadow to the top of your eyelid, under your eyebrow, and rub some of it over the darker colors to help blend the colors together. You also can use this color as a highlight. Brush some on the spot between your eyes and your nose and in the corners of your eyelids. Help bring out your eyes by sweeping a little of the light-colored eye shadow under your eyes.

5. Coat a mascara brush with mascara. Apply mascara to your eyelashes starting at the inner corner of your eyes and working your way out. Use a cotton swab to remove any mascara that accidentally smudges against your makeup or face. Comb out your eyelashes with an eyelash brush. This removes any clumps of mascara that might have formed.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove any mistakes by using cotton swabs to brush the eyeshadow away.

• Blend the eyeshadow together using a cotton swab. This also helps to remove any excess eyeshadow.

• Test your makeup on the inside of your wrist before you apply it to your eyes for the first time. This will help you to see if it matches your skin tone.

• Throw away your makeup if it is more than 6 months old. Old makeup can cause infections because of bacteria and germ buildup.

References

• Marie Clare; How to Apply Eyeshadow Like a Diva; Mackenzie Brown; 2007
• University of Illanoise: Safe Use of Cosmetics
• The Hairstyler; Eye Shadow Basics; Kate; 2011
• Glamour Beauty: America's Next Top Model: The Secret to Tyra's Captivating Eye Makeup