What is a kat-kris?
Kat Chris is eye makeup technique (from English cut crease - "cut fold"), in which the fold of the upper eyelid is clearly outlined with a contrasting shade of eyeshadow or concealer without smooth shading of the border.
The main goal of the procedure is to visually enlarge the eyes, correct drooping eyelids and create the effect of a deep, open look through sharp light and shadow contrast.
The technique emerged in the 1960s, when it was popularized by Twiggy and Audrey Hepburn. In the 2010s, cut-outs experienced a major revival thanks to drag culture and beauty bloggers, becoming a key element of modern graphic makeup.
Main types
Depending on the area to be treated and the desired effect, there are several variations of this technique.
- Full cut crease: A clear line runs along the entire length of the eyelid crease, from the inner corner to the outer corner. This line often extends into a long, graphic wing, emphasizing the almond shape of the eyes.
- Half cut crease: The crease is "cut" with concealer only on the inner half or two-thirds of the eyelid. The outer corner is then softly blended into a hazy finish, creating a smooth transition into a classic smoky eye.
- Double cut crease: Creating two parallel lines in the crease. Between them, leave a blank space (negative space) or draw an accent line with glitter, colored eyeliner, or pigment.
How to use
To create a crisp edge ("cut") over the base shadow, use a flat synthetic brush and a dense, light concealer or a special eyelid primer. Synthetic bristles pick up product without excess and create a smooth, continuous line.
The technique requires secure hold. Wet concealer on the lid must be set with dry textures: matte eyeshadow, shimmer pigment, or translucent powder. This prevents the product from rolling into the crease when blinking.
Cut-criss is characterized by a high degree of contrast and graphicity. This style of makeup is best suited for evening looks, stage performances, and photo shoots. In formal daytime or business makeup, this technique is rarely used due to its expressiveness and dense coverage.
