Cut crease makeup has taken over the internet in recent years, but you may not know it’s been a well-loved makeup technique since the 1950’s. Adopted by the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Diana Ross, this look has grown and evolved over the years. If you’re wondering how to do a cut crease, we’re here to show you how to get the look.
What is a Cut Crease?
A cut crease is an eyeshadow technique that defines the upper lid from the lower lid using color, texture or lines in the contour of the eye.
How to do a Cut Crease: Step-by-Step
Creating this eye makeup look involves defining a sharp line in the crease of your eyelid to create a distinct separation between the upper and lower lid.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve a cut crease:
Step 1: Prep your Eyelids
Start by applying an eyeshadow primer or a concealer on your eyelids to create a smooth, even base. This will help the eyeshadow adhere and could prevent creasing.
Step 2: Apply a Transition Shade
Choose a matte eyeshadow that is one or two shades darker than your skin tone to act as a transition color. Use a fluffy blending brush like our Relove Brush Queen Pigment Blending Brush, and blend the shadow above your crease in windshield-wiper motions to create a seamless gradient.
Step 3: Cut the Crease
Take a flat synthetic brush or a concealer brush and apply a full-coverage concealer or a creamy eyeshadow base on your eyelid below the crease. Make sure to keep the line defined and avoid smudging it. This step “cuts” the crease and creates a clean separation between the lid and crease colors.
Step 4: Define the Crease
Pick a shade that is darker than your transition color. With a small detail brush carefully draw a line just above your natural crease. Start from the outer corner and move towards the inner corner of your eye. This line should be sharp and well-defined. You can also use pencil eyeliner for a more precise application.
Step 5: Set the Concealer
To prevent the concealer from creasing and to create a smooth base for the lid color, gently tap some translucent powder or a skin-toned eyeshadow over the concealer using a fluffy brush.
Step 6: Apply Lid Color
Choose a shimmer or metallic eyeshadow for your lid color – we love using some of the shades in our Mini Chocolate Shadow Palette for this step. Apply it on the eyelid, starting from the lash line and blend it upward toward the cut crease. Use a packing brush or your finger to intensify the color.
Step 7: Blend and Refine
Using a clean blending brush, buff the edge where the lid color and the crease color meet to soften any harsh lines. This step helps create a seamless gradient and a more professional-looking finish.
Step 8: Add Eyeliner and Mascara
Apply eyeliner along your upper lash line to define your eyes. You can opt for a thin line or a winged liner, depending on your preference. Finish the look with a coat of mascara on your lashes to add volume and length.
Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t turn out exactly how you imagined. Experiment with different shades and techniques to find what works best for you.
How to do a Cut Crease on Hooded Eyes
Creating a cut crease on hooded eyes requires some specific techniques to ensure the definition is visible when the eyes are open.
Don’t worry – there’s only a few simple tweaks to be made so you can enjoy the perfect cut crease. Start by following the steps outlined above, but instead of stopping before the crease, apply your products and blend a little above to create the look.
Expert Tip: Remember to keep opening your eyes and look straight ahead into a mirror to ensure the crease line is visible after each step.
And there you have it; all you need to know about how to do cut crease makeup! Although it may seem technical at first, a little extra time and effort will mean you can enjoy the most beautiful eye look. Share yours and tag us at @makeuprevolution.