Eyeliner – a small but mighty tool that can transform your look in seconds. For some, it’s an everyday essential, while for others, it’s a special-occasion wonder. I remember when I first started experimenting with eyeliner, especially before I discovered the benefits of a professional bottom eyeliner service.
I was in my late teens, and I wanted to perfect the cat-eye look for a big night out. Let me tell you, it was a disaster! A thick, uneven line, smudging all over the place – I had no idea what I was doing.
But over the years, through trial and error (lots of it!), I’ve learned the tricks to mastering eyeliner and making it work for any eye shape, occasion, or mood.
Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or a seasoned pro looking to perfect your technique, understanding the do’s and don’ts of wearing eyeliner is essential.
Let’s Get Straight to the Point
No matter what your eye shape or desired look is, the right eyeliner can help you achieve a bold, dramatic statement or a soft, everyday definition. With a little practice and the right technique, you’ll have flawless eyeliner in no time.
The Do’s of Wearing Eyeliner: Pro Tips for Perfect Application
Do Choose the Right Eyeliner for Your Look
Choosing the right eyeliner for your desired look is half the battle. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve reached for a pencil liner thinking I could pull off a bold cat-eye, only to realise halfway through that it wasn’t the best choice.
Here’s a quick rundown of different eyeliners and their best uses:
- Pencil Eyeliner: If you’re after a natural, soft look, this is your go-to. It’s easy to use, especially for beginners, and provides a more subtle definition. I use pencil eyeliner when I want something quick and low-key for daytime. It’s perfect for soft smokey eyes or tightlining along the upper waterline.
- Liquid Eyeliner: For those looking to create sharp, bold lines or dramatic winged looks (like a classic cat eye), liquid eyeliner is the star of the show. Liquid eyeliners are amazing for precision, but they can be tricky for beginners. I often use a liquid eyeliner for evenings out when I want to go bold, but I make sure to practice a few times before I leave the house!
- Gel Eyeliner: Gel liners strike a perfect balance between precision and blendability. They’re creamy and glide on easily, making them great for both defined lines and soft, smudgy looks. I recommend using gel eyeliner for those who want the sharpness of a liquid liner but with a little more time to work with.
Marker/Pen-Style Eyeliner: I’ve found that marker-style liners are fantastic for those who want the control of a pencil but the precision of a liquid liner. They’re perfect for beginners and for creating bold, defined lines. I often use these on rushed mornings when I need to get ready fast but still want clean, sharp eyeliner.
Do Prep Your Skin for Better Application
Before you even think about grabbing your eyeliner, the skin around your eyes should be prepped and primed. This helps the eyeliner glide on smoothly and last longer.
- Cleanse and Moisturise: First, cleanse your eyelids to remove any dirt, oils, or leftover makeup. Then, moisturise. I find that using a lightweight eye cream works wonders. You want to avoid any greasy residue that could cause the eyeliner to slide off.
- Prime for Longevity: If you have oily eyelids or tend to get smudging throughout the day, applying an eye primer or a bit of concealer can make a world of difference. I prefer a mattifying primer on days when I need my eyeliner to last all day without budging.
- Set with Powder: I always set my eyelids with a light dusting of translucent powder before applying eyeliner. It absorbs any excess oil, ensuring the eyeliner adheres better and stays put longer. It’s a little trick I picked up, and it works wonders.
Do Use Small Strokes for Precision
When it comes to eyeliner, precision is key. If you’re anything like me, trying to draw a perfect, straight line in one go can be overwhelming. Here’s my trick: apply the eyeliner in small, manageable strokes. This technique gives you more control and results in a cleaner finish.
When I’m doing a winged eyeliner look, I use a pencil or gel liner, draw short strokes along the lash line, then connect them. It’s much easier than trying to do it all in one go, and you get a more even line.
Do Set Your Eyeliner for Longevity
One of the easiest ways to avoid smudging and keep your eyeliner looking fresh all day is to set it with a little powder. After applying the eyeliner, I lightly dust a tiny amount of translucent powder over the liner.
Then, I go in with a matching eyeshadow or more eyeliner to build intensity and stay power. This simple step ensures that your eyeliner stays in place, no matter what the day throws at you.
The Don’ts of Wearing Eyeliner: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Pull or Tug at Your Skin
It might be tempting to pull your eyelid taut when applying eyeliner, but trust me, it’s a big mistake. Not only does it stretch the delicate skin around your eyes, but it also makes your eyeliner look uneven once the skin bounces back.
This is a mistake I used to make all the time, especially when I was rushing out the door, and it led to smudged lines and uneven wings. The best approach is to keep the skin relaxed and apply the eyeliner gently.
Don’t Overuse Liquid Eyeliner on the Lower Lash Line
Liquid eyeliner can make a dramatic statement, but applying it too heavily on the lower lash line can make your eyes appear smaller. I’ve made this mistake before – I went overboard with liquid liner on the lower lash line, and it closed my eyes off completely, making them look heavy.
For a more natural, wide-awake look, I recommend using pencil eyeliner or gel on the lower lash line. It’s softer and more forgiving, giving you that definition without the heavy look.
Don’t Use the Wrong Eyeliner Formula for Your Eye Shape
I’ll admit – I was guilty of using the wrong eyeliner formula in the past. For example, trying to use liquid eyeliner on my hooded eyes only resulted in smudging and frustration.
I quickly learned that gel and pencil eyeliners are better suited for hooded eyes because they offer more control and allow for a more subtle application. If you’re a beginner, stick to pencil or gel eyeliners until you get more comfortable with the technique.
Don’t Draw Thick Liner on Hooded Eyes
For hooded eyes, applying too thick a line of eyeliner can cover the eyelid space and make your eyes look even smaller.
I’ve seen this happen on clients in my studio, and I always advise them to keep the liner thin and precise. Instead of thick lines, try a softer, smudged look with gel or pencil liner.
Understanding Eyeliner Formulas: Choosing the Best for Your Look
When it comes to eyeliner, choosing the right formula is crucial to achieving your desired look. Over the years, I’ve experimented with nearly every eyeliner type—pencil, liquid, gel, and more—and I’ve learned that each has its strengths depending on the effect you’re going for. Let’s take a closer look at the key eyeliner formulas, their advantages, and the best ways to use them.
Eyeliner Formula Breakdown
|
Eyeliner Type |
Best For |
Pros |
Cons |
Best For |
|
Pencil Eyeliner |
Beginners, soft looks, tightlining, everyday wear |
Easy to use, gentle on sensitive skin |
May require touch-ups, not ideal for sharp lines |
Natural, soft definition |
|
Liquid Eyeliner |
Bold, dramatic looks, winged eyeliner |
High precision, intense pigmentation |
Can be tricky for beginners, dries quickly |
Graphic, defined wings |
|
Gel Eyeliner |
Defined lines, smokey eyes |
Smooth application, long-lasting |
Requires a separate brush, can smudge |
Versatile, smudged or sharp looks |
|
Marker/Pen Liner |
Quick application, bold lines |
Precise, easy to use |
May not work for thin lines |
Bold, clean lines |
|
Cream Eyeliner |
Long-lasting, waterproof looks |
Waterproof, rich pigmentation |
Requires a separate brush, can be too creamy |
Waterproof, lasting definition |
Choosing the Right Formula for Your Eyeliner Needs
- For Everyday, Natural Looks: If you’re looking for a simple, low-maintenance eyeliner that’s gentle on the eyes, pencil eyeliner is your go-to. It’s easy to apply and great for beginners. It’s perfect for tightlining or adding subtle definition to the lash line. I love using pencil eyeliner on my lower waterline for a wide-eyed, natural look.
- For Bold, Defined Lines: If you want precision and intensity, liquid eyeliner is ideal. It offers sharp, bold lines and is perfect for creating dramatic cat eyes or winged eyeliner looks. The pigment is typically more intense, making it a staple for evening events. One thing to keep in mind, though, is to let it dry completely before blinking to avoid transfer.
- For Versatility: Gel eyeliner is the perfect middle ground, offering smooth application with the ability to create both defined lines and smokey, blended looks. It’s one of my favourite choices when I need flexibility, whether I want to go bold or soft. Gel eyeliner never lets me down and holds up through long days.
- For Quick Application: If you’re looking to get your eyeliner on quickly without much fuss, marker/pen eyeliner is the way to go. It combines the ease of pencil eyeliner with the precision of liquid, making it ideal for bold, quick lines. I often use it when I’m in a rush but still want a polished look.
Each eyeliner formula serves a unique purpose, and with a bit of practice, you can choose the best one for your eye shape, desired style, and occasion. Happy experimenting!. It’ll define your eyes without overshadowing them.
How to Apply Eyeliner: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1 – Prep Your Lids
Before you start with eyeliner, make sure your eyelids are clean and dry. This will create a smooth base for the liner and prevent any smudging later. I like to use a cleansing wipe followed by a bit of concealer to cover any redness.
Step 2 – Choose the Right Eyeliner for Your Style
As we discussed earlier, choosing the right type of eyeliner is essential for achieving the look you want. Whether you’re going for a bold cat-eye or a soft everyday look, make sure your eyeliner matches your desired effect.
Step 3 – Apply in Small Strokes
Instead of trying to draw one continuous line, apply your eyeliner in small, even strokes. This will allow you to build the line gradually and ensure it’s neat and smooth. For the best results, I always start from the outer corner and work my way in.
Step 4 – Set and Adjust
Once your eyeliner is applied, use a cotton swab or makeup remover pen to clean up any mistakes or uneven areas. To ensure your eyeliner stays in place, dust a small amount of translucent powder over it, or set it with eyeshadow.
Common Eyeliner Mistakes to Avoid for Beginners
Mistake #1: Applying Too Thick a Line
I see this mistake with my clients quite often – beginners tend to apply thick eyeliner that overwhelms their eyes, especially for hooded or smaller eyes. Keep the line thin and build it up slowly for a more flattering effect.
Mistake #2: Using Dark Eyeliner for Small Eyes
When I started experimenting with eyeliner, I used jet-black liner on my small eyes, thinking it would define them. However, it actually made them appear smaller. Lighter shades like brown or charcoal can work wonders to open up the eyes without overpowering them.
Mistake #3: Over-Application on the Lower Lash Line
It’s tempting to outline the entire lower lash line, but it can make your eyes appear closed off. I always recommend applying eyeliner only to the outer third of the lower lash line for a more natural, wide-eyed look.
Eyeliner for Different Eye Shapes: Tailoring Your Technique
Eyeliner for Hooded Eyes
For hooded eyes, the goal is to create a lifted look without the liner transferring to the upper lid. I love using pencil or gel eyeliner and applying a thin line along the upper lash line. I then extend the liner upwards for a wing that opens up the eyes.
Eyeliner for Almond Eyes
If you’re lucky enough to have almond eyes, most eyeliner looks will suit you! I recommend experimenting with winged eyeliner or a soft smudged look that accentuates your natural shape.
Eyeliner for Round Eyes
To elongate round eyes, I use a smoky eyeliner technique with added shading along the outer corners and a thin line along the lower lash line. This creates an illusion of more defined, almond-shaped eyes.
How to Fix Common Eyeliner Mistakes
Fix Smudging
If you find your eyeliner smudging during the day, don’t panic! Lightly dab your eyelid with a tissue and reapply a second layer of eyeliner or eyeshadow on top. This technique ensures your eyeliner stays in place without a complete redo.
Correct Uneven Lines
If your eyeliner looks uneven, use a cotton swab with makeup remover to gently adjust the lines. I’ve done this countless times for myself and clients – it’s an easy fix that makes all the difference.
Sharpen Wings
For a sharp, clean wing, use a tiny angled brush with a bit of makeup remover or concealer. This will help define the edges and give you a polished, professional look.
The Best Eyeliner Techniques for Different Looks
Cat Eyes and Winged Liner
A classic cat eye never goes out of style. For a flawless wing, I recommend using liquid eyeliner for precision. Start by creating a small flick at the outer corner, then connect it to the lash line.
Smokey Liner
Smokey eyeliner creates a sultry, seductive look. Apply pencil or gel liner along the lash line, then blend it out with a brush for a soft, smoky effect. I love this look for evening events or a night out with friends.
Tightlining for Natural Definition
Tightlining is a subtle way to define your eyes. Apply eyeliner directly to the waterline, between the lashes, for a natural, fuller lash line. I recommend using a pencil liner for this, as it’s gentler on the delicate waterline.
Mastering eyeliner doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With the right tools, a bit of practice, and these helpful tips, you’ll be able to create looks that enhance your natural beauty, whether you prefer subtle definition or bold, dramatic eyes.
Remember, it’s about finding what works for your eye shape, your style, and your comfort level. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to experiment. Every mistake is a lesson, and each attempt brings you closer to that perfect line.
