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Negative Canthal Tilt

When the outer corner of the eye sits lower than the inner corner — reads as tired, sad, or less alert.

Negative canthal tilt (NCT) is when the lateral (outer) canthus sits lower than the medial (inner) canthus — the eye slopes downward toward the temple. It is the opposite of the coveted positive tilt and is one of the more commonly cited eye-area failos in PSL analysis, since it can read as tired, sad, or less alert regardless of actual mood or age.

NCT is set by the underlying orbital bone and canthal ligament position, so — like all canthal tilt — it is stable through adulthood and only meaningfully changed by canthoplasty surgery. Makeup (subtle winged liner) and brow shaping can soften its visual impact but don't change the structure.

◇ Frequently Asked Questions

Is negative canthal tilt bad?

It's generally rated less favorably than positive tilt in PSL analysis, though it can suit some faces and isn't disqualifying on its own.

Can negative canthal tilt be fixed without surgery?

Not structurally. Brow shaping and eyeliner can soften the visual impression but don't change the underlying angle.

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