How to Apply Black Eye Makeup

The smoky eye look, featuring lots of black eyeshadow, eyeliner and mascara, has been popular for years now. This is a great look for evening, especially when going on a date or to a nightclub. Black eye makeup makes a statement and stands out more than most makeup looks. Since black eye makeup is dark, it can be tough to apply. Luckily, some tricks of the trade can make it easier.

Things You'll Need

• Black and grey eyeshadow Other shadow colors Black eyeliner Black mascara Translucent powder Cotton swab

Instructions

1. Brush translucent powder on your face, including your eyelids. You'll want a smooth surface on which to apply your makeup. Eye shadow will blend easier on a powder base.

2. 

   Apply a liberal line of black eyeliner on your top lid. Kohl eyeliner works best for this kind of look, as it smudges well. Use a cotton swab to smudge up the line.

3. 

   Apply a thick line of black eyeshadow to your top lid. Extend this out from the inside corner of your eye, following the eyeliner. Fan out the black shadow so it goes as high as the brow bone, once at the outside corner of the eye.

4. 

   Blend in the edges with a medium shade of grey eyeshadow. Extend the grey shadow out to about halfway across the lid, from the outside corner and up to the brow bone. Try something different, and use a blue-toned or green-toned grey for these colors.

5. 

   Blend a lighter grey eyeshadow into the previous color. This shadow should start at the inside corner of the eye and work outward and up to the brow bone.

6. 

   Use black mascara on the top and bottom lash line to finish the look.

Tips & Warnings

• Is the black shadow falling down onto your cheeks? Avoid a "black eye" look by laying a mass of translucent powder on your cheeks before you begin. When done, just wipe it off. Blending works best with a bristled eyeshadow brush. Cover more of your lid with black, for an even more dramatic look.

• Practice makes perfect. If it comes out badly, don't be afraid to try again.

References

• Tutorial Tuesday: Steely Smoke Eyes