Arabic Eye Makeup: The Art of Intense Expression
Discover bold eye makeup looks and Arabic eyeliner tutorials rooted in cultural expression.
11 Jun'25
By Amanda
Arabic Eye Makeup: The Art of Intense Expression
Once considered an art form, Arabic makeup dates all the way backto ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian civilisation. From it's intense pigments, bold lines and subtle shimmer, Arabic makeup is truly something ethereal.
Why Arabic Eye Makeup Is Still So Popular
Arabic eye makeup isn’t just a trend - it’s a legacy. It’s bold, expressive, and unapologetically dramatic. From Persian queens to modern-day makeup artists across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), this look has travelled centuries and continents.
“Arabic makeup is storytelling with pigment. Every flick, every shadow, every line has emotion.” — @JasmineMUA, Lebanese Beauty Creator
Whether you're prepping for Eid, a wedding, or just a fire Instagram reel, this makeup style says what your lips don’t need to.
How it Began
Let’s rewind a little. Arabic eye makeup has roots older than Cleopatra’s time. It is deeply rooted in time and culture.
- Ancient Egypt & Mesopotamia (3000 BCE): Kohl (made from galena or stibnite) was used for both cosmetic and medicinal purposes. It was believed to protect from the evil eye and desert glare.
- Islamic Golden Age (7th–13th century): Beauty rituals like kohl application became refined and widely embraced. Many women across Arab and South Asian cultures wore kajal or kohl daily—sometimes even as newborns for spiritual protection.
- Modern MENA Beauty: From Lebanese divas like Sabah to Iraqi singers like Ahlam, the bold-lined eye became a defining trait of Arab stardom. These looks are now exported globally through social media, red carpets, and cultural pride.
Maybelline Lasting Drama Gel Liner – ₹379
PAC Felt Tip Liquid Liner – ₹625
Kiro Define Kajal + Liner – ₹499
The signature Arabic eye look is defined by contrast- deep blacks, sharp lines, warm shadows, and high drama.
Key Features:
- Elongated eyeliner that extends past both corners
- Blended matte shadows in neutrals or jewel tones
- High-pigment waterline definition
- Sculpted brows for balance
According to a 2025 trend report by Huda Beauty Insights, 78% of MENA consumers say eye makeup is their #1 priority in their beauty routine.
Precision Liner = Power
This is where Arabic eye makeup truly gets its character from- bold, intense liner and here's how you can replicate the same :
Liner Placement Tips:
- Upper Lid: Draw a thick, defined line close to the lash line. Don’t be afraid to go bold.
- Outer Wing: Extend straight or slightly upward, meeting your crease.
- Lower Lid: Line from the inner corner outward, keeping it tight but intense.
“Gel liners are a non-negotiable for Arabic looks—they give you precision and pigment without skipping.” — @Ahlam.Artistry
Product Picks:
Here are some top recommendations to get started with your perfect Arabic Makeup Look:
- Maybelline Lasting Drama Gel Liner – Jet black and glides like butter.
- PAC Felt Tip Liquid Liner – Ultimate control for beginners.
- Kiro Define Liner + Kajal – Vegan, smooth, and waterline safe.
Inner Corner Accents: The Unskippable Step
If you're skipping the inner corner detail, you’re not doing it right.
- Extended Inner Flick: This tiny line toward the nose bridge opens up the eyes and completes the almond shape illusion.
- Highlight Magic: Dab a shimmer or white shadow right inside the corner for light reflection.
While most makeup tutorials still assume a Western crease, Admigos changes the game. This 3D animation tool shows how eyeliner flows based on eye shape, lash curvature, and lid structure- especially for culturally specific looks like Arabic eye makeup.So check it out before you leave!
Arabic makeup is not meant to be subtle and natural. It's bold, loud and rich in culture, vibrant and displays confidence. So grab your eyeliner and embrace the Arabic look the next time you have a function to go to!
#arabicmakeup #culturalbeauty #linerlegacy #admigos #boldeyes
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