Kajal is a game-changer, much like the DDLJ train scene—miss it, and your makeup look feels incomplete. Whether you’re channelling your inner Poo or just want to slay that no-makeup look, kajal is that “Go-To” in every Indian woman’s makeup bag. But here’s the trick: Not all kajal looks suit every eye shape. So, let’s break it down, Bollywood-style, and find the perfect kajal look for your eye shape.
Here’s an all-in-one guide to getting that perfect kajal look for every eye shape, with makeup tips that’ll have you feeling as fabulous as Deepika Padukone at Cannes. We’ve got makeup tips, insider tricks, and waterproof kajal recommendations to ensure your look stays flawless all day long.
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1. Almond Eyes – Channel Aishwarya Rai and Deepika Padukone
Aishwarya Rai and Deepika Padukone both have almond-shaped eyes, which are essentially the Kareena Kapoor of eye shapes—they can pull off any look. Almond eyes are the ideal canvas for both subtle and dramatic kajal styles. For an everyday glam look, sweep your kajal along the upper and lower lash lines, extending it slightly beyond the corners to give your eyes that extra lift (think Deepika at Cannes). Want a more smouldering vibe? Smudge the kajal upwards and outwards for that signature smokey effect.
To make those almond eyes truly stand out, use a waterproof kajal to trace along your waterline and extend the line just slightly past your outer corners for that subtle wing that mirrors the natural curve of your eye.
Makeup Tip: Tightline your upper lash line for an intense, defined look. A little shimmer on your eyelids or in the inner corners can make your almond eyes pop even more—think Bajirao Mastani glamour!
2. Close-Set Eyes – Kareena Kapoor Khan
If you have close-set eyes like the ever-glamorous Kareena Kapoor Khan, your goal is to create the illusion of more space between them. The key here is focusing on the outer corners of your eyes.
Apply kajal starting from the middle of your upper lash line and extend it outwards Apply kajal starting from the middle of your lash line and extend it outward to create the illusion of more space between your eyes. Keep the inner corners light and avoid too much kajal on the inner rim. Skip lining the inner corners entirely, which helps draw attention outward.
For an added Poo from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham effect, extend the kajal slightly past your outer corners to create a soft cat-eye.
Makeup Tip: Pair your kajal look with lots of mascara, focusing on the outer lashes for that lifted, wide-eyed effect. Flick the kajal out for that iconic Kareena Kapoor Khan pout and pose effect, and add some shimmery eyeshadow to the inner corners for a wider look.
3. Hooded Eyes – Blake Lively
If Blake Lively’s hooded eyes are proof of anything, it’s that you can still slay with kajal.
Hooded eyes like Blake Lively’s can make it tricky to showcase a bold kajal look, but with the right technique, you can achieve a striking, defined effect. Begin by tightlining—lining your upper waterline to give the illusion of thicker lashes without taking up precious lid space.
The trick? Skip the heavy upper-lid kajal that could smudge into your crease. Instead, focus on your waterline. A tight line on both the upper and lower waterlines will make your eyes pop without transferring. For added definition, keep your kajal thin on the lash line.
Makeup Tip: To avoid a Gossip Girl-worthy dramatic vibe, apply a thin layer of kajal along your upper lash line and smudge it upwards slightly to create a soft, smoky effect. This adds depth and makes your eyes appear larger, even with less visible lid space. Want more dimension? Smudge a bit on the outer corners.
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4. Downturned Eyes – Katrina Kaif
If you’ve got downturned eyes like Katrina Kaif, your goal is to lift the outer corners. Create an upward flick with your kajal to give your eyes that wide-awake, brightened look (even if you’re on your fifth coffee of the day). To create that cat-eye illusion, apply kajal on your upper lash line, starting from the centre and flicking it upward toward the outer corners. The result? A lifted, cat-like effect that adds instant glamour.
Skip the heavy kajal on the lower lash line to avoid weighing down your eyes further.Kajal on the lower lash line should only be applied to the outer third of the eye to keep things balanced and avoid making your eyes look droopy.
Makeup Tip: Use a kajal pencil to create a clean, upward flick for a more lifted look—perfect for when you’re about to pull a Katrina-dances-in-the-rain moment. Winged kajal is the way to go here. Channel your inner Katrina with soft flicks for a subtle daytime look, or go bold for nighttime drama.
5. Deep-Set Eyes – Sridevi
The late, legendary Sridevi had beautifully deep-set eyes that commanded attention. If your eyes are similarly set, the key is to avoid overwhelming them with heavy kajal. Stick to a thin line on the upper lash line, and use a nude or white kajal on the lower waterline to brighten and make your eyes look more open.
Deep-set eyes like Sridevi’s are a canvas for bold kajal looks that bring out their depth and intensity. The key here is to highlight the natural shadow your eyes create. Apply kajal on both the upper and lower lash lines, focusing on the waterline for a dramatic, Chandni-like intensity.
To add even more depth, smudge the kajal just a little on your lower lash line. This will create a smoky, sultry look that’s perfect for evenings out.
Makeup Tip: Keep your kajal close to the lash line to avoid making your eyes appear more recessed. Highlight your brow bone to make your deep-set eyes appear more open and radiant. Add some shimmer in the inner corners for that goddess-like Chandni glow.
6. Wide-Set Eyes – Alia Bhatt
If you have wide-set eyes like Alia Bhatt, the goal is to create the illusion of bringing them closer together. Focus the kajal on your inner corners, building intensity there while keeping the outer corners minimal.
Wide-set eyes like Alia Bhatt’s offer plenty of room to play with kajal. To balance the distance between your eyes, focus on the inner corners. Apply kajal along the entire upper and lower lash lines, starting right from the inner corners. This draws the attention inward and gives your eyes a balanced, proportioned look.
Smudge the kajal along the upper lash line for a soft, diffused effect that feels relaxed yet polished—perfect for a no-makeup makeup look, just like Alia’s natural charm.
Makeup Tip: Layer kajal more heavily towards the inner corners to bring those eyes into the limelight—perfect for pulling an Alia in Student of the Year.
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7. Prominent Eyes – Deepika Padukone
Prominent eyes like Deepika Padukone’s are expressive and naturally stand out. To enhance your eye shape without overwhelming it, apply kajal on your upper waterline and along your lower lash line, smudging it slightly for a soft, smoky effect. This will give your eyes definition without making them look too bold. Bold kajal looks amazing on prominent eyes, but keep it balanced. Opt for a thin, defined line along both the upper and lower lash lines, blending slightly for a soft finish.
Makeup Tip: Smudge just a little to give your kajal a soft finish, but don’t go overboard. You want a Ram-Leela intensity, not a hungover smudge.
8. Round Eyes – Katy Perry
Round eyes, like those of global pop sensation Katy Perry, are naturally bright and open. But too much kajal can make them appear smaller and even rounder. To elongate your eyes, focus on the outer half of the lash line. Wing out the kajal at the ends to create that wide-eyed effect.
To add a bit of sultry flair, apply kajal on the upper lash line and extend it slightly beyond the outer corners for a cat-eye effect. This gives your eyes an elongated look while still maintaining their round, doe-like charm.
For a softer day look, apply kajal on the upper lash line only, and smudge it out for a more relaxed vibe. Feeling adventurous? Throw on some glitter, and you’re concert-ready.
Makeup Tip: Use a gel-based waterproof kajal for a sharp, precise line—something Katy Perry might pair with a killer cat-eye for her next music video.
9. Monolid Eyes – Lana Condor
For monolid eyes like Lana Condor’s, sleek, defined kajal looks can work wonders. To make your kajal stand out, focus on tightlining your upper lash line. This adds definition and enhances your eyes without overwhelming the delicate lid space. For a bolder look, extend your kajal outward to create a mini wing. Apply kajal along the lash line, and blend it upwards for a gradient effect that adds dimension to your eyes. Monolids can pull off a bold kajal look without it overwhelming your face.
Makeup Tip: Go for a creamy kajal that blends easily, allowing you to create that perfect smokey finish—just what you need for a To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before-level of charm.
Common Kajal Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping Eye Shape Consideration: What works for almond eyes may not work for round eyes! Tailor your kajal style to your eye shape for the best results.
- Applying Too Much on the Lower Waterline: This can make smaller eyes look even smaller. Balance is key.
- Not Setting Your Kajal: To avoid smudging, always prep your lids with a setting powder
- Using Only Black Kajal: Try experimenting with brown, white, or nude shades to create different looks
Waterproof Kajal: Your Ride-Or-Die
Let’s talk about the hero of any kajal look—waterproof kajal. Whether you’re rushing to catch a local train in Mumbai’s humidity or dancing through a wedding baraat, one thing’s for sure: you need a kajal that won’t budge. Opt for a waterproof kajal like Uroparis Gel Eyes Waterproof Kajal that stays in place through rain, tears, and endless cups of chai. The Uroparis Kajal Pro Waterproof is designed to be smudge-proof, long-lasting, and easy to apply, giving you that sleek, intense kajal finish without any fuss.
So, no matter your eye shape or the occasion, the perfect kajal look is just a flick away. From Bebo to Blake Lively, and from Bollywood to Hollywood, kajal is your go-to for making a statement. With the right makeup tips and waterproof kajal in hand, you’re ready to conquer the world—one kajal look at a time. Check out our blog: Kohl-Rimmed Eyes: The Timeless Indian Makeup Making Waves Globally, for more Kohl-Rimmed Eye Looks!
So grab your Kohl, and let your eyes tell a story—whether it’s “just woke up like this” or full-on Padmavati diva mode.
Stay fierce, stay fabulous!
