If the thought of applying eyeliner has been filling you with fear, you’re not alone. From liquid to gel, kohl to felt tip, it can be a minefield trying to navigate all the different formulas available.
However, with our guide on how to apply eyeliner for beginners, you’ll discover all our tips and tricks to achieve your desired eye makeup look.
Which Eyeliner Should I Choose?
Not sure which eyeliner formula is right for you? Well, it depends on what look you’re trying to achieve, as they can all provide different results, however, they are generally all used to enhance and define the eyes.
What is Liquid Eyeliner?
Liquid eyeliner is a versatile product that can help you make a bold statement.
They often come with a refined brush tip applicator, which is useful for achieving precise lines – especially if you like to create graphic looks. Adding intensity to your eyes, the fluid formula also helps the product glide seamlessly over the lash line, while providing a highly pigmented result in minimal strokes.
Is Liquid Eyeliner for You?
If you’ve got a steady hand and want to create defined, bold eye makeup looks, then liquid eyeliner will be the perfect choice for you.
What is Kohl Eyeliner?
A kohl eyeliner is a useful addition to any makeup kit, as it can help to create so many different looks, from a smokey eye to a lived-in smudged look.
Available in a huge range of colors, such as classic black to more vibrant shades, kohl liners are crafted to glide over the eye like butter, meaning they are easily blendable if you need to soften the look or correct your application.
Is Kohl Liner for You?
If you love to create sultry, smokey looks or you’re looking for the right eyeliner formula to apply to your waterline, this is the product for you.
What is Gel Eyeliner?
Typically packaged in a small pot and applied with a brush, gel eyeliner is a staple in many makeup kits. Although it is quite similar to liquid, the thick, creamy texture tends to be a little easier to apply, which is great for beginners.
It is commonly seen as a favorite among makeup enthusiasts for its staying power, making it ideal for all-day wear – no matter what the occasion.
Is Gel Liner Right for You?
If you’re worried about keeping a steady hand or simply want a super versatile liner for a wide range of looks, then gel is definitely worth a try.
How to Apply Eyeliner
If you’re wondering how to apply eyeliner like a pro, the following steps will help you to create super-defined, sultry looks in no time:
1. Prepare Your Eyes: Start by applying your regular eye makeup, such as eye primer and eyeshadow. This will provide a nice base for your eyeliner.
2. Choose the Right Eyeliner: Select your preferred eyeliner formula. We recommend liquid if you want a precise definition, gel if you need all-day wear or kohl liner if you want a soft, smokey result.
3. Start at the Inner Corner: Begin by positioning the eyeliner or brush at the inner corner of your eye. Tilt your head back slightly and look down into a mirror to keep your eyelid taut and avoid any smudges.
4. Draw Short Strokes: Using small, short strokes, draw a thin line along the base of your upper lash line. Take your time to ensure a smooth, even application.
Expert Tip: If you struggle with an unsteady hand, you could also try resting your elbow on a flat, sturdy surface.
5. Connect the Lines: Continue along your lash line to create a smooth line along the entire length.
6. Finish with Mascara: Once the eyeliner has dried, finish your look with a coat of mascara to further enhance your lashes.
Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t flawless. With time and patience, you’ll be able to create beautiful eyeliner looks with ease.
How to Do Winged Eyeliner
As much as we’d love to produce that perfect cat-eye look every time, sometimes a little guidance goes a long way.
Here’s our step-by-step guide:
1. Draw the Wing: To create the wing, imagine a line extending from the outer corner of your lash line toward the tail of your eyebrow. Place a dot or make a small mark at the desired angle for your wing.
2. Connect the Wing: Starting from the outer corner of your eye, draw a line from the dot toward the middle of your eyelid, creating the wing’s outline.
3. Fill in the Wing: Once the outline is in place, fill in the shape to create a solid wing that connects to the rest of your eyeliner.
4. Perfect the Shape: Check both eyes for symmetry and adjust the wing as needed to ensure each side matches.
Note: Remember, perfect winged eyeliner may not always be achieved, it’ll take time, patience and practice.
How to Apply Eyeliner with Eyeshadow
Ever looked at your favorite eyeshadow and thought it’d make a great eyeliner? Well, we’ve got a clever hack that we’re sure you’ll love!
1. Simply dampen your eyeliner brush with water or even a spritz of setting spray and dip into your eyeshadow of choice. This will darken the pigment and make it the ideal consistency for lining your lash line.
2. Once the eyeliner brush is loaded with pigment, press this along the lash line until you’ve made your way across.
3. Using swiping motions, glide the eyeliner brush over the line you’ve created to ensure a more seamless appearance.
Note: You may have to dip the brush into the eyeshadow multiple times to ensure you achieve a consistent pigment all the way along.
And there you have it, our guide on how to apply eyeliner. In just a few simple steps, you can elevate and define any eye makeup look.
Now you know how to apply it, discover which eyeliner looks will best suit your eye shape for the most flattering results.