Aegyo Sal Pens 101: 6 Must-Try Picks + The Beginner’s Guide

Move over, highlighter—there’s a new eye makeup must-have in town. The Aegyo Sal pen is the latest cult-favorite in the beauty world, designed to complete your eye look by enhancing those tiny under-eye pouches that make your eyes look brighter, rounder, and more youthful.

Originally just a shimmer stick used along the lower lash line, today’s Aegyo Sal pens have evolved into multi-functional tools that combine the benefits of concealer, eyeshadow, and highlighter all in one. Whether you call it an “eye bag pen” or a “tear bag shadow stick,” it’s your secret weapon to achieving that effortlessly cute, wide-eyed look—without surgery. Below, we’re breaking down 6 popular Aegyo Sal pens along with a foolproof how-to guide, so anyone can master this trending K-beauty trick.

1

First, What Is The Aegyo Sal—And How Is It Different From Under-Eye Bags?

The Aegyo Sal refers to a small, natural ridge of muscle (about 0.3–0.5 cm wide) just beneath the lower lash line. It becomes more visible when you smile. Made of the orbicularis oculi muscle, it’s a youthful feature that gives the eyes a charming, “smiling” look.

Under-eye bags, on the other hand, are caused by fat protrusion or loose skin due to aging, fatigue, or fluid retention. The key difference? Aegyo Sal is muscle, while eye bags are fat or sagging skin. The former enhances your youthful glow; the latter can make you look tired or older.

The Magic Behind Aegyo Sal Pens: How Do They Work?

Aegyo Sal pens are makeup tools designed specifically to enhance that cute under-eye puff. By adding a soft highlight to the center of the lower eye area and lightly shading just below it, you can create the illusion of plumper, more defined Aegyo Sal.

Most Aegyo Sal pens come in crayon or pencil form for easy, precise application—perfect even for makeup beginners. Compared to eyeshadow sticks or cream formulas, they’re usually lighter, less greasy, and stay put all day without settling into lines. If you’re after that innocent, bright-eyed K-beauty effect, an Aegyo Sal pen is your best bet for a natural, no-fuss transformation.

2

6 Aegyo Sal Pens Worth Trying—Cute Eyes, Unlocked

The right Aegyo Sal pen can take your eye makeup from flat to fabulous. Whether you prefer soft shimmer or dramatic glow, these top picks all deliver serious eye-enhancing magic:

1. Too Cool for School Mineral Eye Shadow Stick

With its silky texture and natural pigmentation, this rose-gold shimmer stick is ideal for everyday looks. The mineral-infused formula offers a soft, pearlescent glow that enhances your Aegyo Sal without going overboard. Easy to layer, beginner-friendly, and totally worth the price.

2. Charlotte Tilbury Colour Chameleo

 This iconic shimmer stick is designed to complement different eye colors and instantly brightens the lower eye area. Rich in pigment and long-wearing, it’s a go-to for anyone who needs their makeup to last from morning meetings to evening cocktails.

3. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick

A cult favorite with a rounded tip perfect for tracing under the eyes. The soft matte-meets-shimmer finish creates a sophisticated, grown-up Aegyo Sal. Ideal for those who want subtle definition with a luxe touch.

4. Canmake Tear Bag Aegyo Sal Pen

This kawaii pen brings major J-beauty vibes. With soft pastel tones and a hint of shimmer, it’s perfect for creating a sweet, girly look. Super easy to use and budget-friendly, it’s especially loved by students and makeup newbies.

5. The Saem Dual-Ended Aegyo Sal Pen

Two steps, one pen: this clever design features a shimmer tip for highlighting and a soft brown shadow tip for contouring. The rounded applicator helps define the eye without looking harsh—great for summer or oily skin.

6. Bonus pick: Laura Mercier Liquid Eyeliner

Not a traditional Aegyo Sal pen, but many use it to trace a subtle shadow line just below the shimmer. It adds dimension and depth to your Aegyo Sal, and the smooth, refined formula blends beautifully without smudging.

3

How to Choose the Right Aegyo Sal Pen: 4 Pro Tips

1. Pick the Right Texture

• Powder-based pens: Soft and natural, perfect for beginners but less long-lasting.
• Cream-based pens: More pigment and staying power; best for those with makeup experience.
• Liquid pens: Great for precision, but require a steady hand.
• Crayon-style pens: Portable and precise.
• Highlight + contour combos: Use both light and dark shades to create a 3D effect.

2. Choose the Right Shade

• Pearl white: Eye-brightening; great for fair skin.
• Champagne: Universally flattering; perfect for daily use.
• Ivory/beige: Low-key “no-makeup” vibe.
• Pink tones: Sweet and youthful, but avoid if prone to puffiness.
• Neutral browns: Ideal for contouring below the Aegyo Sal.

3. Match Your Skin Tone & Eye Shape

• Fair skin: Try pearl white, champagne, or soft pinks.
• Yellow/medium skin: Go for champagne, ivory, or light brown.
• Deeper skin: Bronze, gold, or deep browns work best. For eye shape:
• Monolids: Emphasize the contour for depth.
• Hooded eyes: Keep it light to avoid making eyes look smaller.
• Double lids: Play around—most shades and styles will suit you.

4. Mind the Ingredients

Delicate under-eyes call for gentle formulas.

• Avoid: alcohol, fragrance, and mineral oils.
• Look for: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, vitamin E for hydration and smoothness.

4

How to Apply Aegyo Sal Like a Pro: 7 Must-Know Tips

1. Prep is Key

• Start with clean, moisturized skin.
• Use concealer to cancel dark circles and brighten the under-eye area.

2. Know Where to Apply

• Smile slightly to locate your natural Aegyo Sal—it’s the soft puff just under the lower lash line.
• Use small strokes and build gradually for the most natural effect.

3. Blend It Out

• Tap gently with your fingertip or a brush to blend.
• Soften edges to avoid harsh lines.

4. Add Depth with Shadow

• Use a brown contour pen or shadow to lightly draw a shadow just below your Aegyo Sal highlight.

5. Lock It In

• Set with translucent powder or a setting spray for long wear.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes!

6. Remove Gently

• Use an eye-specific makeup remover.
• Follow with eye cream to keep the area hydrated and wrinkle-free.

7. Don’t Forget the Pen Itself!

• Clean your pen regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.

5

Want Bigger, Brighter Eyes—Even Without Makeup? Try This Eye Rejuvenation Treatment

Let’s face it: no matter how good your makeup skills are, removing it at the end of the day can feel discouraging—especially when puffiness or dark circles remain.

That’s where Perfect Medical’s R6 Miracle Eye Rescue Treatment comes in. This non-invasive procedure helps tighten skin around the eyes, reduce puffiness, and brighten dark circles—all without pain or downtime.

Using three levels of radiofrequency energy, it targets the shallow, mid, and deep layers of skin to stimulate circulation, melt away fat cells, and boost collagen production—giving you firmer, younger-looking eyes. Book your consultation now and enjoy a complimentary skin analysis and a full R6 eye treatment session!