Upturned eyes
An eye shape with outer corners that lift upward toward the hairline.
Upturned eyes feature an almond-like form where the outer corners angle higher than the inner ones. This creates a natural lift that can make the lower lid appear larger than the upper lid.
- Outer corners sit higher than the inner corners.
- Often described as having an almond shape.
- The lower lid appears larger than the upper lid.
- Angles upward toward the hairline.
- Determined by genetic bone structure and eyelid folds.
What it is
This eye shape is defined by the direction of the outer corners relative to the inner ones. The outer points sit higher on the face, creating a distinct upward slant. The overall form often resembles an almond, though the lift is more pronounced than in standard almond eyes. This geometry makes the lower eyelid appear larger than the upper one. The shape results from the underlying bone structure and the specific fold of the eyelid skin. It is one of several natural variations found across different populations.
The science
Eye shape depends on facial bone structure and eyelid creases. Genetics control these features separately from eye color. The iris pigmentation is determined by melanin levels, while the physical shape is inherited through different genes. Structural variations like this are normal anatomical differences rather than medical conditions.
Styling and care
Makeup artists use this shape as a versatile canvas. The upward angle can be enhanced with eyeshadow gradients. Techniques often involve blending colors from the lash line up toward the brow bone. Lighter shades may be applied to the inner corner to open the look further. Eyeliner choices can balance the natural lift or emphasize it depending on the desired effect.
Questions people ask about Upturned eyes
How do I know if I have upturned eyes?
Look in a mirror with your eyes open. If the outer corners of your eyes are positioned higher than the inner corners, you likely have this shape. The outer points will angle upward toward your hairline, creating a natural lift.
Are upturned eyes the same as almond eyes?
They are similar but distinct. Both often share an almond-like base, but upturned eyes have a more pronounced lift at the outer corners. In upturned eyes, the lower lid typically appears larger than the upper lid due to this upward angle.
What causes this eye shape?
It is caused by your natural bone structure and the way your eyelid skin folds. These features are inherited genetically. They are separate from the genes that determine your eye color, which relies on melanin levels in the iris.
Good reading and sources
There is no English Wikipedia article on Upturned eyes yet, so the facts on this page come from the sources listed above: nvisioncenters.com/eye-shapes/, makeup.com/makeup-tutorials/eyes/whats-your-eye-shape. Some are the subject's own pages, so its claims about itself are reported as its claims. EveryFaceShape wrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares it with the sources to make sure no passage is copied.
It may contain mistakes, and figures change over time. Nothing here is investment or buying advice. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-11-15.
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