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What Are Almond Shaped Eyes?

Kristeen Moore
Kristeen Moore

Almond eyes refer to a type of eye shape characterized by those who have one that is similar to the popular nut. This eye type also tends to have upswept outer corners and the shape is symmetrical. There are many variations of this eye shape, from wide set to deeper versions. Almond-shaped eyes are the most common type and they work well with different makeup techniques. When applying makeup, users should also keep in mind that the specific kinds of cosmetics that are used also depend on personal eye and skin colors.

The most common types of eyes are almond-shaped, and they are prevalent in all ethnicities. There is a common misconception that almond eyes are more common in certain countries; however, these shapes are found in men and women in all regions of the world. Some of the confusion stems from the fact that there are different variations of almond eyes.

Mascara helps almond eyes stand out.
Mascara helps almond eyes stand out.

All almond-shaped eyes have a few characteristics in common: they all have outer corners that turn in an upward version and all kinds are symmetrical. At the same time, there might be slight differences between individuals who have almond-shaped eyes, which can give the appearance of different shapes. This eye shape can be more closed on some individuals, while others might have wider versions. The size of one’s face and nose can also impact the way that his or her almond eyes appear. Some differences include having wider set eyes as opposed to more narrow ones with an accompanying small nose.

Many different makeup techniques work well with almond eyes.
Many different makeup techniques work well with almond eyes.

Such eye shapes are sometimes the envy of others because they are extremely versatile in terms of trying out different make-up techniques. The symmetry of almond eyes makes them easier with which to work because they can show off cosmetics usually without impacting the shapes themselves. Many make-up artists are bold in their color choices for almond-shaped eyes, but it is important that individuals at home also consider what hues look the best in accordance with their natural irises.

Almond-shaped eyes are common to people of all ethnicities.
Almond-shaped eyes are common to people of all ethnicities.

Generally, there are a few make-up tips that experts recommend for almond eyes, even though such individuals have more freedom to experiment with cosmetics than others. Eye liners can accentuate the shapes of the eyes, but certain individuals with more narrow versions might consider just lining either the tops or bottoms in order to avoid making the eyes appear smaller than they are. Makeup artists also like applying multiple eyeshadow tones to give the lids more definition and character. Black mascara tends to complement all almond-shaped eyes, no matter what variation a person might have.

Characteristics of Round vs Almond Eyes 

Makeup artists may apply multiple eyeshadow tones to give the lids of a person with almond eyes more definition and character.
Makeup artists may apply multiple eyeshadow tones to give the lids of a person with almond eyes more definition and character.

Like almond eyes, round eyes are considered one of the more frequently appearing eye shapes in people across the world, Regardless of race or ethnicity, round eyes can be found among people globally. Whereas almond eyes are the most common shape for eyes, round eyes come in at a close second.

A person is considered to have round eyes if the shape of the eyes is circular. To be considered round, the whites of the eye must be at least a little visible around all sides of the iris of the eye. In the lid of the eye, there should be an identifiable, even if minuscule, crease in the upper lid, denoting a half-circle shape that rises into the brow bone area.

Mythology 

While there is little data that proves the mythology behind people with round eyes, certain assumptions remain. People with round eyes are thought to have specific personalities and character markers distinguishable from other people with different eye shapes. Because round eyes suggest that your inner self is more open to the outer world, your personality may be more expressive and emotional than people with other eye shapes. Other potential traits of round-eyed people include:

  • Creative 
  • Artistic
  • Imaginative 
  • Moody 
  • Dramatic
  • Spontaneous 
  • Aloof 
  • Curious 

Celebrities 

A number of famous people have round eyes, just like everyone else. Crosscheck this list of celebrities against the list of personality traits to determine any matches between the two:

  • Robert Downey Jr.
  • Elizabeth Olsen 
  • Tracee Ellis Ross
  • Octavia Spencer
  • Zooey Deschanel
  • Rob Gronkowski
  • Dave Chappelle
  • Katy Perry

Characteristics of Almond vs Round Eyes 

Almond eyes are sometimes considered to be the most desirable eye shape among humans. Smaller in width than length, the sides taper off to points that frame the eye. While the iris is not always entirely visible, it can be more noticeable with almond-shaped eyes because of how the lids accentuate it. According to many maxillofacial surgeons, the almond eye shape is the most requested reconstruction surgery.

Despite being the most prominent type of eye shape globally, it can be challenging to determine minute differences between subtypes of almond eyes, such as upturned or downturned, hooded or not. In contrast, round eyes generally come in either small or large. Unlike round eyes, almond eyes have a more identifiable crease in the upper lid, and the whites of the eyes are not visible on all sides of the iris.

Mythology

As with round eyes, different mythologies surround those with almond eyes. Some of the different ideologies come from the physical trait of the lids of the eyes being more closed than round eyes; some say this makes people with almond eyes more guarded and calculated. Others suggest that because almond eyes taper off to the sides, those that have them are more curious, always seeking information wherever they go. Additional suggested personality traits of people with almond eyes include:

  • Composed
  • Pensive 
  • Reserved 
  • Happy 
  • Balanced 
  • Generous 
  • Cautious 
  • Compassionate 

Celebrities 

Almond eyes come in many different variations. Some people may have even started by having round eyes, then underwent surgery to obtain almond-shaped eyes. Whether their almond eyes are natural or have been adjusted over time, these celebrities flaunt them with all they’ve got:

  • Taylor Swift 
  • Chris Hemsworth 
  • Beyonce 
  • Tom Hardy
  • Zoe Saldana 
  • Jason Momoa
  • Patrick Mahomes
  • Cardi B

Makeup Tips for Your Eye Shape 

Makeup is all about your own personal preferences. The most important tip to keep in mind for wearing makeup is to wear it if it makes you feel good and happy. Makeup is less about hiding behind a mask and more about accentuating what you have to communicate your beauty and truth. There are certain aspects of makeup that highlight different features on different people, but that doesn’t mean that those applications are off-limits for others.

Round Eyes 

Consider the following makeup tips to accentuate your features if you have round eyes:

  • Eyeliner in the waterline adds depth.
  • Lighter lid color brightens eye color.
  • Deeper shades in the crease help define the brow bone.
  • Thicker mascara on the top lashes highlights the circular shape.
  • Neutral colors work well to complement the round shape.

Almond Eyes 

Consider the following makeup tips to accentuate your features if you have almond eyes:

  • Heavy mascara or false lashes elongate the almond shape.
  • External eyeliner on the top and bottom adds depth.
  • Leave the waterline alone for the eyes to appear more open. 
  • Take the time to blend, since the tapering of your eyes is a focal point.
  • Both neutral and bold colors complement an almond shape.

Discussion Comments

burcinc

Aren't almond eyes associated with Down syndrome? My cousin has almond eyes and has a mild case of Down syndrome.

donasmrs

@ddljohn-- I have almond shaped eyes but I don't like them. I think the almond shape makes eyes look smaller. I adore large, round eyes.

Isn't it funny how we all want something different than what we have?

I think it's easier for someone with round eyes to have almond shaped eyes with makeup and eyelashes, than for someone with almond eyes to have round eyes.

ddljohn

Almond eyes are beautiful. My best friend has almond eyes and eye makeup looks great on her, especially eye liner. I wear eye liner regularly too, but since I have very round eyes, it doesn't make much impact. When my friend wears eyeliner, her eyes just pop. She looks like Cleopatra!

I wonder if there is a makeup trick to give round eyes a more almond shape. That would be awesome.

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    • Mascara helps almond eyes stand out.
      By: Tomislav Forgo
      Mascara helps almond eyes stand out.
    • Many different makeup techniques work well with almond eyes.
      By: Africa Studio
      Many different makeup techniques work well with almond eyes.
    • Almond-shaped eyes are common to people of all ethnicities.
      By: arturas kerdokas
      Almond-shaped eyes are common to people of all ethnicities.
    • Makeup artists may apply multiple eyeshadow tones to give the lids of a person with almond eyes more definition and character.
      By: mikelaptev
      Makeup artists may apply multiple eyeshadow tones to give the lids of a person with almond eyes more definition and character.