The “fox eyes” aesthetic, characterized by an elongated, lifted eye shape with a slightly upward slant at the outer corners, has become a popular trend. It’s associated with a youthful, confident, and somewhat exotic appearance. Many people are exploring ways to achieve this look, ranging from subtle makeup techniques to more permanent cosmetic procedures. This article dives deep into the various methods, providing a comprehensive guide to understanding and achieving the fox eyes aesthetic safely and effectively.
Understanding The Fox Eyes Aesthetic
The fox eyes look isn’t just about a specific eye shape; it’s about the overall facial harmony. The upward tilt of the outer corners of the eyes, combined with a subtly lifted brow tail, contributes to the overall effect. The key is to create an illusion of elongation and elevation, enhancing the natural contours of the face. It is crucial to note that the perception of beauty varies, and what is considered aesthetically pleasing is subjective.
The Key Features
The defining characteristic is the upward slant of the eyes, but several other elements contribute to the overall effect. The brow plays a vital role, with a straighter, less arched shape preferred. The area between the eye and the brow is often smoothed and lifted, creating a more open and youthful appearance. Subtle changes in the upper eyelid, like reducing excess skin, can further enhance the desired look. Understanding these elements allows for a more tailored approach to achieving the fox eyes aesthetic.
Cultural Considerations and Sensitivity
It’s important to be aware of the cultural implications associated with the fox eyes trend. In some Asian cultures, mimicking this look, especially through pulling back the eyes, can be considered offensive and a form of mockery. Before pursuing this trend, consider its potential impact and ensure your actions are respectful and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes. Appreciation and appropriation are distinctly different, and thoughtful consideration is crucial.
Makeup Techniques for Fox Eyes
Makeup offers a non-invasive and temporary way to experiment with the fox eyes look. Mastering these techniques can provide a dramatic transformation without committing to permanent changes. The focus is on creating the illusion of lifted and elongated eyes through strategic application of eyeshadow, eyeliner, and other products.
Eyeliner Application
Eyeliner is the star player in achieving the fox eyes look with makeup. The goal is to create a subtle, elongated wing that extends slightly upward and outward from the outer corner of the eye.
Start with a thin line along the upper lash line, gradually thickening it as you move towards the outer corner. At the outer corner, instead of flicking the liner directly upwards, extend it slightly outwards following the natural curve of your lower lash line. Then, connect the end of the line back to the lash line, creating a small, defined wing.
Use a smudging brush to soften the line for a more natural look. For a bolder effect, use a liquid or gel liner. Experiment with different angles and lengths of the wing to find what best suits your eye shape. Always ensure the liner is crisp and clean for a polished appearance.
Eyeshadow Contouring
Eyeshadow plays a crucial role in adding depth and dimension to the eyes, enhancing the lifted effect. Use matte shades to create subtle contours that reshape the eye area.
Apply a light, neutral shade all over the eyelid as a base. Then, using a medium-toned matte shade, contour the crease of the eye, extending the color slightly outwards and upwards towards the brow bone. This creates the illusion of a deeper, more sculpted crease.
Use a darker shade along the outer corner of the eye, blending it upwards and outwards towards the tail of the brow. This adds further definition and enhances the lifted effect. Apply a shimmer or highlight shade to the inner corner of the eye and under the brow bone to brighten the eyes and create a more open appearance. Remember to blend the eyeshadow seamlessly for a natural, gradient effect.
Brow Shaping and Enhancement
The eyebrows are a crucial component of the fox eyes look. A straighter, less arched brow shape contributes significantly to the overall effect.
Use brow pencils, powders, or gels to fill in sparse areas and define the shape of your brows. Focus on creating a straighter brow line, minimizing the arch. Extend the tail of the brow slightly outwards and upwards to align with the upward slant of the eyes. Use a brow gel to set the hairs in place, ensuring they follow the desired shape. Regularly groom your brows to maintain a clean and defined appearance. A well-shaped brow can dramatically enhance the fox eyes effect.
Other Makeup Tips
Consider using nude or skin-toned eyeliner on the waterline to brighten the eyes and create a more open appearance. Apply mascara primarily to the outer lashes to further emphasize the lifted effect. Use highlighter strategically on the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones and brow bone, to enhance the overall contour and create a more youthful appearance. Experiment with different makeup looks to find what best suits your individual features and preferences.
Non-Surgical Options for Achieving Fox Eyes
For those seeking more noticeable and longer-lasting results without undergoing surgery, several non-surgical options are available. These treatments offer a less invasive way to achieve a lifted and elongated eye appearance.
Thread Lifts
Thread lifts involve inserting dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and tighten the tissues. These threads have small barbs or cones that grip the skin, allowing the doctor to pull and reposition the skin to create a lifted effect. For fox eyes, threads can be strategically placed to lift the outer corners of the eyes and the brow tail.
The procedure is relatively quick, typically taking less than an hour, and requires minimal downtime. Results are visible immediately but improve over time as the threads stimulate collagen production. The effects of a thread lift typically last for several months to a year. While thread lifts can provide a noticeable lift, they are not a permanent solution and require periodic maintenance.
Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Injections
Botox injections can be used to strategically relax certain muscles around the eyes and brows, creating a subtle lift. By injecting Botox into the muscles that pull the brows down, the muscles that lift the brows become more dominant, resulting in a slight elevation of the brow tail.
This technique can help to open up the eye area and create a more alert and youthful appearance. Botox injections are quick and relatively painless, with results typically appearing within a few days and lasting for several months. Regular Botox treatments are necessary to maintain the desired effect.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers, typically made of hyaluronic acid, can be injected into specific areas around the eyes and brows to add volume and create a lifting effect. Fillers can be used to support the brow tail, lift the outer corners of the eyes, and fill in any hollow areas that may be contributing to a tired or aged appearance.
The procedure is relatively quick and requires minimal downtime. Results are visible immediately and can last for several months to a year, depending on the type of filler used. Fillers can provide a subtle but noticeable enhancement to the fox eyes aesthetic.
Surgical Procedures for Permanent Fox Eyes
For individuals seeking a permanent solution to achieve the fox eyes look, surgical procedures offer a more definitive option. These procedures involve altering the underlying tissues around the eyes and brows to create a lasting lift and elongation.
Canthoplasty
Canthoplasty is a surgical procedure that alters the shape and position of the outer corner of the eye, known as the lateral canthus. The procedure involves repositioning the canthal tendon, which supports the outer corner of the eye, to create a more upward slant. This can result in a more almond-shaped eye with a noticeable lift at the outer corners.
Canthoplasty is a more invasive procedure than non-surgical options and requires a longer recovery period. The results are permanent, but it’s crucial to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon to minimize the risk of complications.
Brow Lift (Lateral Brow Lift)
A lateral brow lift, also known as a temporal brow lift, focuses on lifting the outer portion of the brow, which is often the area that droops with age. This procedure involves making small incisions near the temples and lifting the skin and underlying tissues to create a more elevated and youthful brow position.
A lateral brow lift can significantly enhance the fox eyes aesthetic by lifting the brow tail and opening up the eye area. The results are generally long-lasting, but some degree of drooping may occur over time due to natural aging.
Upper Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)
Upper blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift, involves removing excess skin and fat from the upper eyelids. This procedure can help to reduce the appearance of hooded eyelids and create a more open and youthful eye area.
While not directly creating the fox eyes slant, upper blepharoplasty can complement other procedures, such as canthoplasty or a brow lift, by enhancing the overall aesthetic result. By removing excess skin that may be weighing down the upper eyelids, the eyes appear brighter and more defined.
Considerations Before Pursuing Fox Eyes Treatments
Before undergoing any treatment, whether surgical or non-surgical, to achieve the fox eyes look, it’s crucial to carefully consider the following factors.
Consultation with a Qualified Professional
The first and most important step is to consult with a qualified and experienced doctor or surgeon. During the consultation, the doctor will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your goals and expectations, and recommend the most appropriate treatment options. It’s essential to ask questions, express any concerns, and understand the potential risks and benefits of each procedure. A thorough consultation is crucial for making an informed decision.
Realistic Expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations about the results of any fox eyes treatment. While these procedures can enhance your appearance, they cannot completely transform your face or create a perfect replica of someone else’s eyes. Focus on achieving a natural and balanced look that complements your existing features.
Potential Risks and Complications
All cosmetic procedures, whether surgical or non-surgical, carry potential risks and complications. These can include infection, bleeding, scarring, nerve damage, asymmetry, and dissatisfaction with the results. It’s essential to discuss these risks with your doctor and understand the likelihood of them occurring. Choose a qualified and experienced professional to minimize the risk of complications.
Cost and Maintenance
The cost of fox eyes treatments can vary depending on the type of procedure, the doctor’s fees, and the geographic location. Non-surgical treatments, such as thread lifts and Botox injections, require periodic maintenance to maintain the results. Surgical procedures are generally more expensive but offer more permanent results. Consider the long-term costs and maintenance requirements before making a decision.
Emotional and Psychological Considerations
It’s important to consider the emotional and psychological aspects of undergoing cosmetic procedures. Be honest with yourself about your motivations for wanting to change your appearance. Ensure that you are doing it for yourself and not to please others or conform to societal pressures. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist if you are feeling anxious or insecure about your appearance.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue fox eyes treatments is a personal one. By carefully considering all the factors involved, you can make an informed decision that is right for you. Remember to prioritize your safety, well-being, and overall satisfaction with the results.
What exactly is the “Fox Eyes” look, and what are its key characteristics?
The “Fox Eyes” look, also sometimes referred to as “designer eyes” or “cat eyes,” is a cosmetic trend characterized by an upward slant of the eyes, creating an elongated and lifted appearance at the outer corners. This effect typically makes the eyes appear more alert, sharp, and arguably, more youthful. The key characteristics include a subtle lift of the outer brow, a smoother upper eyelid, and a gentle upward angle of the outer corner of the eye.
Achieving this look is often pursued through cosmetic procedures like canthoplasty (altering the outer corner of the eye) or brow lifts, or through temporary makeup techniques. The aesthetic aims to create a more almond-shaped eye and often involves minimizing the appearance of sagging or hooded eyelids at the outer corners. This trend has become popular due to its perceived impact on facial structure, creating a more defined and arguably, more “exotic” appearance.
Are there non-surgical ways to create the “Fox Eyes” look with makeup?
Yes, makeup can be a very effective and temporary way to achieve a “Fox Eyes” effect. Several techniques focusing on strategic placement of eyeshadow, eyeliner, and concealer can help create the illusion of lifted and elongated eyes. The most common method involves using eyeliner to extend the outer corner of the eye upwards towards the temple, creating a sharp, winged shape.
Contouring the crease of the eye with a light to medium brown eyeshadow, focusing on lifting the outer corner, helps create the illusion of depth and lift. Concealer can also be used under the outer corner of the eye, blended upwards toward the temple to further accentuate the lifted effect. Additionally, avoiding heavy eyeshadow on the lower lash line and focusing on lifting the brow line with highlighter can further enhance the “Fox Eyes” appearance.
What cosmetic procedures are commonly used to achieve permanent “Fox Eyes”?
Surgical options for achieving the “Fox Eyes” look primarily involve procedures that lift or reposition the skin and tissues around the eyes and brow. A lateral canthoplasty is a surgical procedure that alters the outer corner of the eye, creating a more elongated and lifted appearance. This involves surgically reshaping the canthal tendon, which supports the outer corner of the eye.
Another common procedure is a temporal brow lift, where the outer portion of the eyebrow is lifted to create a more angled and elevated brow line. This procedure can be performed through various incision techniques, including minimally invasive endoscopic methods. Thread lifts, which involve inserting barbed threads under the skin to lift and support tissues, can also be used to achieve a temporary brow lift effect.
What are the potential risks and side effects of surgical “Fox Eyes” procedures?
Like any surgical procedure, there are inherent risks associated with procedures intended to create the “Fox Eyes” look. These can include infection, bleeding, scarring, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Asymmetry, where one eye or brow is positioned differently from the other, is also a potential risk, requiring further correction.
Specific risks related to canthoplasty include dry eye, changes in eyelid function, and damage to the surrounding tissues. Temporal brow lifts can lead to nerve damage, resulting in temporary or permanent numbness or weakness in the forehead area. It’s crucial to thoroughly discuss these risks and potential complications with a qualified and experienced surgeon before undergoing any procedure.
How can I determine if I am a good candidate for a “Fox Eyes” procedure?
Determining candidacy for a “Fox Eyes” procedure requires careful consideration of your facial anatomy, aesthetic goals, and overall health. Ideal candidates typically have good skin elasticity, realistic expectations about the outcomes, and are in good general health. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon or oculoplastic surgeon is essential to assess your specific case.
During the consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your facial structure, discuss your desired results, and explain the potential risks and benefits of each procedure. They will also assess your medical history to identify any contraindications that might make you unsuitable for surgery. Ultimately, the decision to proceed with a “Fox Eyes” procedure should be based on a thorough understanding of the procedure and its potential outcomes.
How long do the results of a “Fox Eyes” procedure typically last?
The longevity of “Fox Eyes” procedure results can vary depending on the specific technique used. Surgical procedures like canthoplasty or a temporal brow lift typically offer more permanent results compared to non-surgical options. However, even with surgery, the effects can diminish over time due to the natural aging process and changes in skin elasticity.
Thread lifts, on the other hand, offer temporary results that usually last between 6 months to 1 year. Factors like individual skin type, lifestyle, and the specific technique used can influence the duration of the results. Maintenance treatments or touch-up procedures may be necessary to prolong the desired effect.
What is the recovery process like after a surgical “Fox Eyes” procedure?
The recovery process after a surgical “Fox Eyes” procedure varies depending on the type of procedure performed. Generally, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area for the first few days to weeks. Pain medication can help manage any discomfort. Cold compresses are typically recommended to reduce swelling.
Stitches are usually removed within a week to ten days after the surgery. It’s crucial to follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to minimize complications and promote healing. Avoiding strenuous activities, sun exposure, and certain facial movements can help ensure optimal results. Full recovery and the final appearance may take several months.