Try these easy make-up ideas for sparkling, beautiful eyes.

When it comes to eye makeup, knowing the right shades and simple techniques can serve you well. Eyes that are truly enticing take a little bit more work, but it is nothing you can't do for yourself. Ready for eyes that will be the centre of attention? Check out our quick rules on eye make-up wonders that really work.

Lash Magic

Great mascara really opens up those eyes. First, curl your lashes before applying mascara. Give it a good 30-second grip to have a rounded curl that will make your lashes flutter. Then, apply mascara in three parts — at the base of your lashes, halfway up and finally all the way to the tip, this way, you get a nice, even application minus the clumps. For a sultry look, apply mascara on your lower lashes as well to give it a nice glamorous finish. Be careful not to apply too much: the last thing you want are smudges that look messy!

Line Them Up

The eyeliner is the magic wand for creating the illusion of bigger and more expressive eyes. If your hands aren't as steady, pick a pencil liner to minimise mistakes. But if you are confident enough, a liquid liner can really make your eyes pop! Start by lining the entire top lash line. Extend the line slightly at the corners. You can also line the bottom of your eyes for more intensity but concentrate only on the outer corners of your eyes. Smudge slightly for a softer and smoky look that spells seductive. Also, when lining your eyes, stick as close as possible to your lash line. Having too thick of a liner on your lash line will make your eyes appear smaller.

Fake It!

We are talking about false eyelashes, a novelty before, but a make-up staple now! If it is your first time using falsies, the best thing to do is to get an expert to show you how. Go to your favourite cosmetic counter and get some tips from the makeup artist. Or better yet, bring your lashes back to where you bought them and get the expert there to put it on for you so you can take note! The trick is to place the lashes as close to your lash line as you can, filling in wherever you want more impact. Press gently but firmly so it stays (you don't want them falling out mid-way through your date). Hold the lash in place for about five second for the glue to hold. Then, use a dark liner to camouflage the line of the fake lashes and apply your mascara as usual. To remove, gently pull with a tweezers.

All Through the Day

The most annoying thing about eye make-up? It doesn't stay on and smudges as the day goes by! Well, that is a thing of the past with this trick - use a damp eye shadow brush and apply a layer of face powder on your lids. Allow it to set before applying eye shadow. This way the shadow will stay in place the entire day! It takes an extra couple of minutes, but the result is definitely worth the time spent.

Get Smoky

The best look for night make-up? Smoky eyes; How to get it? First, dust some face powder all over your lid for the make-up to stay on longer. Then, apply a thin layer of light-coloured eye shadow like brown as the base. Pick a dark hue such as black or midnight blue. Apply liberally all over your lid and use your fingers to blend. Apply eyeliner and smudge it a little with a brush to get the sexy smoky effect. Finish off with two coats of mascara and you're all set!

Prep Them Up!

For tired eyes, extend the eye shadow from the outer corners of the lid upwards to give eyes an immediate lift. Make sure you use a light highlighter on the brow bone to further brighten up the eyes. Stay away from eyeliner: use mascara on the inner corner of the eyes instead.

Perfectly Groomed

Don't forget your eyebrows as they are the frame for the rest of your features. Brows with stray hair look messy while sparse brows look incomplete. Get them professionally trimmed as this will minimise the mistakes (and heartache) compared to a DIY trimming. If your brows are sparse, invest in a brow pencil to fill them in. Use fine strokes, followed with a brush to soften the lines so it looks natural.

More Intensity

Want more intensity in your eyes? Dampen your applicator first before using it with your eye shadow for a more striking finish. Here, a medium-toned shade across the lid and brow bone will work while a dusting of highlighter under the brow area just seals the deal.

Shimmery Eyes

One of the best ways to add glamour to the eyes is to use eye shadow with a hint of shimmer. Colours that are too matte will make you look a little dated. Some sparkle in the eyes brings life back to them! Just don't overdo it with the glitter; you don't want to and up looking like a stage performer.

Rest

If your eyes are looking dull and tired these days, hit the sack earlier to ensure your eyes get the rest they need!

Massage

When applying your cream, give your eyes a little pampering massage. Using your fingers, trace your eyes and gently push with your fingertips as you go along. With your third finger, gently move around your eye area with small circular movements. This will help promote oxygen and blood flow.

Tips

One of the best ways to add glamour to the eyes is to use eye shadow with a hint of shimmer.

When lining your eyes, stick as close as possible to your lash line. Having too thick of a liner on your lash line will make your eyes appear smaller.