Cut Crease

A sharp line of concealer is used to 'cut' across the eyelid crease, creating a stark contrast between the lid color and the crease shade.

A Cut Crease is a dramatic eye makeup technique that uses a sharp line of concealer to divide the eyelid space, creating a stark contrast between the lid color and the deeper crease shade. Originating from theatrical makeup and popularized in the 2010s beauty community, it visually enlarges the eyes by carving out a defined, graphic socket line. This highly structured look is ideal for glamorous occasions and those wanting to maximize or artificially create visible lid space.

To create a cut crease, begin by heavily defining your upper eye socket with dark matte eyeshadows. Next, use a flat synthetic brush and full-coverage concealer to carve a sharp, crisp semi-circle directly across the eyelid. Press a contrasting shimmer shade over the wet concealer, then finish with winged eyeliner.

Eyes Sharp Glamorous Graphic Party Formal Event Photography

~18 min 6 steps 11 products

The Kit

Eyeshadow Primer
Translucent Setting Powder
Matte Transition Eyeshadow
Fluffy Blending Brush
Dark Matte Eyeshadow
Tapered Crease Brush
Full-Coverage Liquid Concealer
Flat Synthetic Concealer Brush
Shimmer Eyeshadow
Flat Packing Brush
Black Liquid Eyeliner

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How to Create Cut Crease

Prime the Lids

Apply an eyeshadow primer all over the eyelid up to the brow bone and set it with a translucent setting powder to ensure a smooth blending canvas.
Define the Crease

Sweep a matte transition eyeshadow slightly above your natural crease using a fluffy blending brush, then deepen the socket with a dark matte eyeshadow using a tapered crease brush.
Cut the Crease

Apply a full-coverage liquid concealer onto a flat synthetic concealer brush and stamp a crisp, sharp semi-circle directly over your natural crease line.
Pack the Lid

Press a shimmer eyeshadow onto the wet concealer using a flat packing brush to lock the sharp shape in place without muddying the line.
Blend Outer Corner

Gently buff the outer edge of the cut crease into the dark matte eyeshadow using your tapered crease brush to create a seamless gradient effect.
Apply Winged Liner

Draw a sharp, graphic wing along the upper lash line using a black liquid eyeliner to complement the stark contrast of the lid.

Pro Tips

To find the perfect placement for your cut crease, apply a dot of concealer near your upper lash line and look straight up; the wet concealer will transfer to your natural fold, showing you exactly how high you need to carve the line.
Before applying your concealer, wipe away the dark crease eyeshadow from your mobile lid using a precision cotton swab lightly dipped in micellar water to prevent the colors from mixing and looking muddy.
Pat your shimmer or matte lid shade onto the concealer while it is still slightly tacky to ensure maximum pigment payoff and lock the sharp edge in place.

Common Questions

What is a cut crease makeup look?

A cut crease is an eye makeup technique where liquid concealer is used to draw a sharp, distinct line across the eyelid. This creates an unblended, graphic border that separates the light eyelid shade from the deeper crease colors.

What brushes do I need to do a cut crease?

You will need fluffy blending brushes to diffuse the transition shades, a very flat, stiff synthetic brush to carve the crisp concealer line, and a dense packing brush to press pigment onto the lid.

Is a cut crease good for makeup beginners?

A cut crease is considered an advanced technique because it requires a steady hand, precise symmetry, and an understanding of your specific eye anatomy. Beginners often have better luck starting with a 'half cut crease' to practice carving the shape before attempting the full look.

What is the difference between a cut crease and a smokey eye?

A smokey eye relies on seamless, diffused blending with absolutely no harsh borders, creating a sultry cloud of color. In contrast, a cut crease intentionally features a stark, unblended graphic line to separate the lid and the crease.

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