All it takes is a few moments scrolling through your IG feed, and chances are, you’ll notice makeup lovers showcasing fierce cut crease eye looks. The variety (and creativity) you can achieve with this particular look is quite astounding. Not to mention, it becomes the focal point on the face, adding welcomed drama and openness to the eye area.
But what exactly is a cut crease, you ask? In short, it’s when you define the crease of your eyelid by “cutting” it with makeup – typically using foundation or concealer. This process allows you to add depth and a major pop of color to the eyes, not commonly found in regular eyeshadow looks. Essentially, it elevates your makeup game to a whole new level.
Even though a cut crease can appear daunting to achieve, in reality, it’s not. So, who better to speak with than someone who’s mastered this? I talked to makeup enthusiast Kaity McSalis (@kaity_cateye), who gave me the full breakdown on how to perfect a cut crease once and for all. See below for a step-by-step guide, including tips, must-have products, and images so you can easily follow along at home.
A Step-by-Step Guide to A Cut Crease:
Kaity’s Complete Product Breakdown
Base:
L’Oreal Paris True Match Foundation in Buff Beige N4,
Elf Cosmetics Perfect Finish HD Powder
Brows:
Covergirl Easy Breezy Brow Pencil (505 Rich Brown)
Eye Primer:
Urban Decay Cosmetics Eyeshadow Primer Potion in Eden
Eyes:
Morphe Brushes X James Charles Palette
BH Cosmetics Romantic Nomad Palette
Liner:
Hard Candy Stroke of Gorgeous Color in Like Royalty
Mascara:
Maybelline Falsies Volum’Express Waterproof (in Very Black)
Lashes:
NuBeauty Co Lashes in Flirt
Highlight:
Essence Makeup Pure Nude Spacelighter in Be My Spacelight
Lips:
Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick in Bow & Arrow
Step 1: Primer
First things first, prep the eyelids with an eyeshadow primer. Take your ring finger and gently pat the product onto your lid. This step ensures the product will stay put all day and prevent any color from fading. It truly sets the stage for your makeup – so don’t skip this!
Step 2: Form the Eyeshadow Base
Here’s Kaity’s insider tip: when forming the eyeshadow base, take three shades (light, medium, and dark) within the same color family (example: pink) to enhance depth and dimension.
Using the medium shade, sweep it across the eye crease starting from the inner corner all the way to the tail end of your brow. Blend slightly upwards towards your brow bone.
Next, take the lightest shade and blend it on top of the medium hue. Now apply the darkest shade, blending closest to the crease line.
Step 3: Cut the Crease
With a flat concealer brush and the smallest amount of concealer, outline where you want to cut the crease. “I like to put it a little bit above where the eyelid folds so you can view the total look,” says Kaity.
The simplest way to get started is by applying the concealer near your tear duct and draw a line above the crease. As you near the center, begin to form a wing for a more dramatic, lifted effect.
Step 4: Fill the Lid with Concealer
Pat down the eyelid with concealer using the same brush in Step #3, so the entire area below the cut crease line is filled with the skin tone-like shade. Apply with a light hand and go in with more product if needed. The aim is for the lid to have full coverage but not so much that it appears thick or caked on.
Step 5: Add Color
Now for the fun part. Apply any color that will complement the eyeshadow base. It could be vibrant, shimmery – it’s your choice.
Take a tightly packed brush and tap the product onto the lid, working in layers until you’re satisfied with the outcome.
Step 6: Apply Liner
Create a winged eye on the top lid with your go-to liquid liner. Kaity recommends opting for a “super liquid-y” product – one that’s easy to control for maximum impact.
Step 7: Finish Off with A Pair of Falsies
Place a pair of false lashes onto your lids to finish off the look. Add some whispies for a fluttery effect, or go big and bold with a 3D version.
The Final Look:
And that’s it! A fool-proof guide to nailing this stunning eye look. Every. Single. Time. Now, who’s ready to get started?
