beauty addict

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Top hairstylists, makeup artists, and beauty gurus answer your questions.

Q: How do I create a smoky eye without looking bruised?

The secret to creating a great smoky eye is using the right textures, shades, and blending techniques. To begin, camouflage any dark undereye spots or circles with a light concealer. Next, rim your eye with black pencil or liquid eyeliner, using a light hand and staying as close as possible to your lash line. If you use a pencil, make sure it’s freshly sharpened.

Sweep a dark eye shadow across your lid, and apply a softer shadow up into the crease with a blending brush. Rub a bit of the same softer hue, or a shadow that’s one shade lighter, just under your lower lash line. Use a light or whitish shade to highlight your brow bone and the eye’s inner corner, then apply mascara or, if you’re feeling frisky, fake lashes.

At this point, you can apply your foundation, using it to correct any renegade traces of shadow or mistakes that have been made along the way. Finally, remember that when you wear a smoky eye, it’s best to keep your lipstick light. And keep in mind that you don’t have to limit your palette to blacks and grays—rich greens or mauves can make a bold, beautiful statement.

Makeup artist Elise Tremblay’s background includes film, television, commercial, and print work. She currently works for M.A.C. Cosmetics.

Photo credit: Katja Govorushchen

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