Downturned Eyes: How to Tell and What Suits Them

Downturned eyes have outer corners that sit slightly lower than the inner corners — a negative canthal tilt. They can give a soft, gentle expression.

How to tell if you have downturned eyes

  • A line from the inner to the outer corner of your eye slopes downward
  • The outer corners appear to droop slightly
  • Your lower lash line dips towards the outer corner
  • The effect is often more visible in photos than in the mirror

Makeup tips for downturned eyes

  • Angle eyeliner and wings upward from the outer corner to create lift
  • Keep dark shadow off the outer lower lash line
  • Curl lashes and concentrate mascara on the outer lashes

Brows, sleep and grooming

  • A lifted brow tail makes the eye area look more open
  • Good sleep and less puffiness reduce a tired look

Frequently Asked Questions

Are downturned eyes unattractive?

No. Many people with downturned eyes are considered very attractive; the shape often reads as soft and approachable.

Are downturned eyes the same as prey eyes?

They overlap. Prey eyes usually combine a neutral or negative tilt with rounder eyes and visible white below the iris.

Can makeup lift downturned eyes?

Yes. An upward-angled wing, lifted brows and mascara focused on the outer lashes create a visibly lifted look.

Other Eye Shapes

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