The Korean beauty scene is renowned for its quirky trends that result in charming and adorable looks. One such trend gaining traction is "aegyo sal," a technique that enhances the subtle skin folds beneath the eyes. In this article, let's delve into the world of aegyo sal, its popularity, and how to master this Korean beauty secret effortlessly.
Understanding Aegyo Sal

The term "aegyo sal" translates to "smiling eyes" in Korean. It refers to the gentle skin indentation beneath the lower eyelid that appears when a person smiles or laughs. In Korean culture, aegyo sal is synonymous with a cheerful, cute, and endearing facial expression.
Aegyo Sal vs. Aegyo Ggul
Though often used interchangeably, "aegyo sal" and "aegyo ggul" possess nuanced differences. Aegyo ggul focuses on enlarging and rounding the eyes using makeup techniques. On the other hand, aegyo sal pertains to enhancing the under-eye skin folds, creating fuller and cuter eyes.
The Allure of Aegyo Sal
Aegyo sal has gained remarkable popularity in Korea and beyond, especially within the realms of Korean culture enthusiasts. Its appeal lies in several factors:
- Charmingly Adorable: Aegyo sal effortlessly imbues a playful and adorable aura, aligning perfectly with the Korean beauty philosophy of freshness and charm.
- Eyes that Shine: By creating the illusion of more prominent and wide-open eyes, aegyo sal imparts a vibrant and lively appearance to the eyes.
- Celebrity Influence: Numerous Korean celebrities sporting aegyo sal have significantly contributed to its widespread adoption. Fans often seek to replicate the captivating looks of their admired stars.
Creating Aegyo Sal

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For those not naturally blessed with aegyo sal, fret not. Makeup magic can help you achieve this coveted look. Here's a straightforward method to craft your aegyo sal:
- Highlighting Wonders: Gently apply a touch of highlighter or light-toned eyeshadow to the skin creases beneath your eyes. This technique accentuates the skin folds, making them more noticeable.
- Brow Pencil Boost: Lightly use an eyebrow pencil beneath your eyes to create an illusion of bigger and brighter eyes.
- Play with Colors: Opt for vibrant eyeshadows or eyeliner below your eyes to draw attention to the aegyo sal area, instantly making your eyes appear larger.
Aegyo sal captures the essence of cuteness, larger eyes, and a youthful glow. While some are naturally blessed with this feature, anyone can master it with a few makeup tricks. This is just one example of how Korean beauty trends continue to revolutionize our approach to makeup and appearance.