How To Create A Super Bright Eye Look

I think it’s safe to say we all like it when our eyes look bright and clear, and it can definitely be frustrating when under eye bags just won't quit. I'm not above admitting that I've spent time in life looking up ways to make your eyes look bigger and brighter.

According to an article in Science Daily, research published in Ethology has shown that people with red eyes are considered sadder and unhealthier than people whose eyes are bright and clear. Additionally, an article in Scientific American reported that eye expression and eye gaze are some of the most important factors when it comes to social interactions — it's why we ask people to look us in the eye when we need to know if they're telling the truth, or why a lack of eye contact in general can be so bothersome. Our eyes are one of the first things other people notice about our faces — whether they are conscious of it or not— and they are genuinely an important factor in how others perceive us.

Basically, bright eyes literally not only look great, but they advertise health, alertness, and even happiness — it's probably why we like them so much. If you're feeling like your eye area needs a little boost, or those under eye bags annoying you, here are eight simple tips that will go a long way in brightening your eyes.

1. Concealer Is Your Best Friend

In an article for Women's Health, New York City-based makeup artist M.J. Forte stressed the use of under eye concealer when making your eyes look as bright as possible. "Darkness around your eyes will make them look smaller,” said Forte, and he also noted that sticking to lighter eye shadow over darker tones will help create the appearance of brightness.

2. White Eyeliner

Eva Wiseman, commissioning editor for The Gaurdian's Beauty section, highly recommended white eye liner for an super awake, well-rested, and open-eyed look. She specifically recommended lining your lower water line with it.

3. Apply Highlighter To The Highest Point Of Your Eye Lid

I personally love this little trick from YouTuber Teni Panosian. When doing her eyemakup, she puts a lighter effervescent color right in the center of her eyelid, making her eyes look super big and bright. Skip ahead to 2:35 to see how she applies it.

4. Contour

This technique from YouTuber and makeup lover Adriana Braje relies less on concealers and white eye pencils and more on some simple contouring techniques near the crease of the eye. Take a look if you want a more natural bright-eyed look.

5. Use An Eyelash Curler

In a piece on how to look refreshed on Good Housekeeping, New York City makeup artist Emily Kate Warren said opening up her lashes with an eyelash curler is "the only thing that perks up my face when I'm sleep-deprived." This one extra step goes a huge way in creating more open-looking eyes.

6. Minimize Your Lipstick

Forte noted that wearing a nude lip and keeping the rest of your makeup low key will instantly draw attention upward towards your eyes. My personal favorite tip for nude lips is using a neutral nude shade and topping it with a simple gloss with a hint of pink.

7. Have Eye Drops On Hand

In an article for Health, Sophie Bakri, MD, an ophthalmologist at the Mayo Clinic, said, "Soothe red, dry eyes with artificial tears—that will keep them looking fresh." She also recommended preservative-free OTC versions, and taking off contact lenses as soon as you get home. She noted that you should only use eye drops that are specifically for redness reduction on special occasions, as your eyes can become overly-reliant on them.

Naphcon A Eye Drops, $8.89, Pharmapacks.com

8. Always Wear Sunglasses When You Can

Bakri also said to wear sunglasses outside as much as possible, even in winter. "Over time, excessive sun and wind exposure can cause the whites of the eyes to yellow due to damage of the DNA in the cells," Bakri said.

There you have it! A few super simple tips for keeping your eyes bright and refreshed (even on days when you might not be feeling so bright and refreshed yourself). And remember, we all struggle with dark circles and dry eyes — you're not alone!

Images: Zoella/YouTube; Giphy (1)