Mastering Aegyo Sal Makeup In 2024: A Step-by-Step Guide

애교살 (aegyo sal) directly translates to “charming fat” or “lovable fat.”

The term “애교 (aegyo)” in Korean means “cute” or “charming,” while “살 (sal)” refers to flesh or a small raised area of skin or fat. Therefore, “애교살 (aegyo sal)” literally translates to “cute or charming skin/fat.”

애교살 (aegyo sal) is considered a hallmark of youth and cuteness. The small puffy area below the lower eyelid gives the face a more youthful and cheerful appearance. It is believed to make the eyes appear larger, brighter, and more animated. While some are naturally blessed with prominent aegyo sal, many achieve the look with makeup or cosmetic procedures.

In South Korean culture, having 애교살 (aegyo sal) is highly desired because it adds to a youthful and playful appearance. Instead of being seen as a sign of fatigue or aging, it’s viewed positively as a cute and endearing facial feature.

Aegyo Sal is often described as the “eye smiles” or “smiling eyes.”

I’ve experimented with this makeup style myself, and after a period of adjustment, I found the perfect way to achieve it. It doesn’t mean it’s my makeup to go, but it is something that I know how to do and can now do after having failed multiple times.

In this guide, I will provide a step-by-step process for achieving the aegyo sal makeup look, including recommendations on dos and don’ts for the best results. By the end of this article, you will clearly understand how to achieve this cute and popular Korean look and will be ready to try it out.

How to Get Aegyo Sal Makeup Step-By-Step

Achieving the aegyo sal makeup look may initially seem intimidating, but it can be easily accomplished with the right techniques and products.

Step 1: Prep Your Skin

Begin your makeup routine by thoroughly cleansing your face to remove any impurities, creating a fresh and smooth canvas for application. Follow up with a hydrating moisturizer, ensuring your skin is evenly nourished and primed for makeup adherence. For the delicate eye area, gently apply a lightweight, nourishing eye cream. This step is crucial as it helps to hydrate and prep the under-eye skin, ensuring a more seamless and long-lasting application of your aegyo sal makeup.

Step 2: Apply Concealer

To achieve an immaculately natural yet impactful aegyo sal effect, select a concealer one or two shades lighter than your natural skin tone. Carefully apply a modest quantity to the inner corners of your eyes and gently along the area beneath your lower lash line. Utilize a small, precise brush or even the gentle touch of your fingertip to blend the concealer outward seamlessly. Ensure that this lighter concealer merges flawlessly with your foundation or BB cream, avoiding harsh lines or noticeable color disparities. This blending helps brighten the under-eye area and creates a subtle, youthful bulge, mimicking the coveted aegyo sal look.

Step 3: Add Eyeshadow

To further define and enhance the appearance of your aegyo sal, gently apply a light-colored eyeshadow over the area where you’ve previously applied the concealer. Opt for a shade that subtly contrasts with your skin tone to create an understated shadow effect, lending depth and dimension to your aegyo sal. Careful blending is crucial here; use a soft, fluffy brush to diffuse the eyeshadow seamlessly, ensuring no harsh or abrupt lines. This meticulous blending not only helps in achieving a more natural, gradient effect but also integrates the eyeshadow beautifully with the rest of your makeup, highlighting the charming fullness of your under-eye area.

Step 4: Highlight Your Eyes

To amplify the charm of your aegyo sal, delicately apply a highlighter over the previously applied eyeshadow and concealer. Choose a highlighter that complements your skin tone and gently dab a small amount onto the area to enhance the illusion of a fuller, more radiant under-eye. This strategic application not only adds a subtle brightness but also contributes to the overall puffy and youthful appearance characteristic of aegyo sal. For a seamless blend, use a small, soft brush or the pad of your finger to integrate the highlighter smoothly into your skin, ensuring there are no harsh lines and that the transition between your concealer, eyeshadow, and highlighter is fluid and natural-looking

Step 5: Add Eyeliner

Start by carefully lining your upper and lower lash lines with brown or black eyeliner. When working on your lower lash line, maintain a thin, precise line that sits snugly against the lashes. This technique defines your eyes beautifully and plays a crucial role in subtly accentuating your aegyo sal. Keeping the liner close and fine adds depth and dimension, contributing to a more natural, effortlessly charming under-eye look that enhances the aegyo sal’s allure.

Step 6: Curl Your Lashes and Apply Mascara

For an even more enhanced and captivating aegyo sal effect, gently curl your lashes with an eyelash curler, ensuring each lash receives a perfect upward lift. Follow this by meticulously applying one or two coats of volumizing or lengthening mascara to your upper and lower lashes. Doing so not only dramatizes and defines your lashes but also significantly helps to open up your eyes, creating a beautifully balanced and striking emphasis in tandem with your aegyo sal makeup, thereby adding depth and allure to your overall look.

Step 7: Final Touches

If you find that certain areas appear over-blended or there’s an excess application of the product, it’s important to make the necessary adjustments. Use a clean, fluffy brush or the gentle pad of your finger to softly diffuse and smooth out any harsh lines or overly saturated spots. This step ensures a seamless, natural-looking finish, maintaining the delicate balance of the aegyo sal’s youthful glow.

Tips and Tricks for Perfecting the Aegyo Sal Look

Achieving the perfect puppy eyes look can seem daunting, but with the right tips and tricks, anyone can enhance the natural features of their under-eye area. This paragraph will provide valuable tips and tricks to perfect the aegyo sal look. From choosing the right products to application techniques, we will cover everything you need to know to achieve a natural and charming aegyo sal makeup look.

• Choose the right products: When selecting makeup products for aegyo sal makeup, choose light and natural-looking ones. Avoid heavy, cakey products that can make the under-eye area look unnatural.
• Focus on the raised area: When applying eyeshadow and highlighter, focus on the raised area of the aegyo sal. Use a small brush or fingertip to target this area and blend the products onto the surrounding skin.
• Blend, blend, blend: Blending is critical to a natural-looking look. Use a small brush or your fingertip to blend the eyeshadow and highlighter onto the raised area of the aegyo sal, making sure to blend out any harsh lines.
• Don’t forget the waterline: Applying a nude or white eyeliner to the waterline can make a big difference in enhancing the appearance of the aegyo sal. This technique can make the eyes look larger and more awake.
• Experiment with different shades and products: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades and products to find the ones that work best for your skin tone and desired look. Try using different shades of eyeshadow and highlighter to find the perfect combination.
• Use false lashes sparingly: While false lashes can enhance the aegyo sal makeup look, choosing a natural-looking style and applying them sparingly is essential. Avoid using too thick or long lashes, as they can overpower the aegyo sal and make the makeup look unnatural.

Aegyo Sal Makeup Dos and Don’ts

You should follow a few dos and don’ts when achieving the perfect aegyo sal makeup look. One of the most important things to remember is that less is more with this look. You want to create an effect that enhances your natural features without making it obvious that you’re wearing makeup. Use a concealer to brighten dark circles, then blend carefully for a natural finish. When applying eyeshadow, opt for subtle shades that will open the eyes without looking overdone. Use gentle strokes with eyeliner along the lash line and highlight under the brow bone and in the inner corner of the eye to draw attention and add brightness.

Another critical factor of this look is choosing products with hydrating properties, ensuring your skin looks fresh and luminous. Always use a primer before applying makeup, which helps keep your products in place throughout the day. To complete your look, avoid overdoing it on blush or contouring; instead, opt for a light dusting of powder or bronzer around the cheekbones to warm up your complexion. Finally, set your look with a face mist or setting spray to last all day!

Blocking all your products seamlessly is important to achieve that perfect Korean-style aegyo sal look. Use a damp makeup blender or brush when applying each product and blend gently; you don’t want harsh lines or edges that won’t blend into one another. Make sure to add dimension by using multiple shades of eyeshadows, but keep it subtle by using light colors such as browns, beiges, taupes, and even whites. Avoid using too many dark colors, which may overpower the look and make it appear unnatural. Finally, remember that everyone’s face shape is different; use trial and error to determine which techniques work best for you!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Attempting the Aegyo Sal Makeup Look

Here are some common mistakes people make when attempting the aegyo sal makeup look and how to avoid them:

• Applying too much product: One of the most common mistakes people make when attempting the aegyo sal makeup look is applying too much. This can make the under-eye area look cakey and unnatural. To avoid this, use a light hand when applying makeup products and gradually build the color.
• Using the wrong products: Using the wrong products can also lead to a less-than-desirable result. Make sure to use light, natural-looking products that enhance the natural features of the under-eye area. Avoid heavy or dark products that can create an unnatural appearance.
• Forgetting to moisturize: Moisturizing the under-eye area before applying makeup is crucial to achieving a natural and seamless aegyo sal makeup look. Dry skin can make makeup look cakey and emphasize wrinkles or fine lines. Apply an eye cream or a lightweight moisturizer before applying makeup.
• Applying makeup too close to the lash line: Applying makeup too close to the lash line can create a droopy or tired appearance. Instead, focus on enhancing the area using eyeshadow and highlighter, and apply eyeliner to the waterline to create the illusion of larger, more awake eyes.
• Using false lashes that are too thick or long: False lashes can enhance the aegyo sal makeup look, but using too thick or long lashes can overpower the under-eye area’s natural features. Choose a natural-looking style that enhances your eye shape and apply them sparingly.
• Overdoing the highlighter: While it is essential to achieving the aegyo look, highlighter can make the under-eye area shiny or oily. Use a light hand when applying a highlighter and focus on enhancing the raised area of the aegyo sal.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can achieve a natural and charming aegyo sal makeup look that enhances your natural beauty and draws attention to your eyes.

How to Remove Aegyo Sal Makeup

When removing aegyo sal makeup, the key is to be as gentle as possible to protect the delicate under-eye skin.

Start using a gentle, oil-based cleanser or a specific eye makeup remover, as oil-based formulas can more easily dissolve makeup, minimizing the need to rub the area. The double cleansing method is the way to go.

Apply the cleanser with a soft cotton pad, pressing it lightly onto the skin, then gently wipe away. This method allows the makeup to break down, facilitating easier removal. It’s crucial to avoid harsh rubbing or pulling around this sensitive area, as such actions can lead to skin irritation or contribute to premature wrinkles. After you’ve successfully removed the makeup, following up with a nurturing routine is important.

Apply a gentle eye cream or a hydrating serum to replenish and maintain the skin’s smoothness and suppleness. Additionally, if you often wear this makeup, check your skin’s condition regularly. In case of any irritation or notable changes, it’s advisable to rest your skin and seek advice from a dermatologist if needed.

Aegyo Sal Variations and Styles

Aegyo sal makeup can beautifully transform to suit various occasions and personal styles, offering flexibility from a natural, barely-there look to a more dramatic, eye-catching appearance.

For everyday wear or professional settings, a natural style using light, neutral shades, and minimal shimmer gives a subtle enhancement, maintaining a soft, effortless charm.

In contrast, a dramatic look, achieved through darker contouring shades and perhaps bolder eyeliners or eyeshadows, suits evening events or moments when a glamorous flair is desired.

Those aiming for a cuter, more youthful impression might opt for the Cute (Kawaii) style, characterized by exaggerated puffiness, playful colors, or a touch of glitter, perfect for social gatherings or themed parties.

Soft Romantic styles with gentle pinks or peaches and just a hint of shimmer create a dreamy, sweet vibe ideal for romantic outings or weddings.

Adjusting the intensity and color tones of aegyo sal makeup can further refine the look.

Increasing the contrast between highlighted and contoured areas is key for a bolder, more pronounced effect, while a subtler appearance relies on blending and natural-toned shades. Cool tones like soft greys or pale blues can offer a crisp, fresh look, whereas warm tones like nudes, beiges, and soft browns evoke a cozy, inviting feel.

Incorporating bright tones like light pinks, lilacs, or even gentle greens adds a playful aspect for those feeling adventurous.

It’s important to balance the aegyo sal with the overall makeup look—like pairing a bold lip or a smoky eye with a toned-down under-eye puffiness and vice versa. This versatility enhances the eye’s beauty and allows the wearer to explore and express different facets of their personality and style through makeup.

The Difference Between Aegyo Sal and Under-Eye Bags

Aegyo Sal is a natural and desirable feature in Korean beauty culture, and it is typically more prominent in younger people. It can enhance their overall appearance by making them more approachable and friendly.

On the other hand, under-eye bags are puffiness or swelling that appears beneath the eyes. Various factors, including aging, genetics, lack of sleep, and dehydration, can cause under-eye bags. They are often more noticeable in the morning or after a long day, making a person look tired.

Overall, the main difference between aegyo sal and under-eye bags is that the first is a desirable feature that can enhance a person’s appearance, while the latter is usually seen as an undesirable feature that can make a person look tired or older.

Which Korean Celebrities Are Known for Their Prominent Aegyo Sal?

Several Korean celebrities are known for their aegyo sal, and their charming appearance has contributed to their popularity in Korean beauty culture. Some examples of Korean celebrities with prominent aegyo sal include:

• Park Shin-Hye: Actress Park Shin-Hye is known for her beautiful and youthful appearance, and her aegyo sal is often cited as one of her most charming features.
• IU: Singer and actress IU has a well-defined eye look, contributing to her cute and approachable image.
• Park Bo-Young: Actress Park Bo-Young’s aegyo sal is a defining feature of her cute and youthful appearance.
• Song Ji-Hyo: Actress Song Ji-Hyo’s aegyo sal is often highlighted in her makeup looks, adding to her playful and charming personality.

These celebrities and many others have contributed to the popularity of aegyo sal in Korean beauty culture. They have inspired many people to enhance their aegyo sal or create the illusion of having it through makeup techniques.

Enhance Your Natural Beauty with Aegyo Sal Makeup

The allure of aegyo sal lies in its ability to add depth and brightness to the eyes, creating an enchanting, captivating, and expressive look. This technique showcases how a subtle enhancement can significantly highlight one’s features and boost overall facial radiance.

As you embark on your journey with this makeup style, remember that beauty is an ever-evolving landscape rich with opportunities for personal expression and creativity. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different styles, intensities, and colors to discover what best accentuates your unique features and reflects your style.

Whether you prefer a natural, understated look or a more dramatic, eye-catching appearance, the versatility of aegyo sal makeup ensures a style for every mood and occasion.

So enjoy the process of experimenting and finding the perfect balance that works uniquely for you because your personal touch and confidence can bring any look to life.