Are you afraid wearing eyeliner will make you look like a hung-over raccoon? If so, you might be missing out on a simple way to open up your eyes and give yourself a brighter, more youthful appearance.
Eyeliner is one of my favourite makeup products to use, as it can add a dramatic effect in seconds.
It is great for emphasizing the eyes or creating a completely different look depending on how it is applied. Whether it is in liquid, gel or pencil form, here are some great rules to follow:
-
Apply liner as close to the eye line as possible and make sure the lines are as symmetrical. For “women of a certain age” blend the liner with a q-tip or your finger as a defined line can look much too harsh. Shimmery eyeliners should also be avoided.
-
Eyeliner is great after false lash application to hide any minor mistakes and allow it to look perfectly blended. It can help you play up aspects of your eyes to really make them sparkle. For close- set eyes, apply liner a little further away from the inner corners to create an illusion of further separation. For far-set eyes, apply liner as close to the inner corners as possible. For the illusion of larger looking eyes, use glittery eyeliner or one of a vibrant colour.
-
If the outer corners of your eyes droop, make sure the eyeliner turns up ever-so-slightly.
- To emphasize the shape of your eyes, line the bottom and smudge gently. For added drama, line the tarsal plate (the inner bottom of the eye line, as well as the top).
-
Don't apply mascara before you apply eyeliner. For best results, always apply your mascara after you apply your eyeshadow and eyeliner.
-
Thin lines are great for smaller eyes and thicker lines look great on big eyes. To create extra thin lines, dab a thin q-tip in makeup remover and gently “clean away” for the desired shape.
-
Women of South Asian descent look fabulous with vibrant colours. Just make sure to keep the lips muted if the emphasis is on the eyes.
If you are out of your eyeliner, a great tip is to use your mascara. Simply dip your eyeliner brush along the mascara wand and apply. A perfect 2-in-1 solution.
Some of my favourite eyeliners include:
Hard Candy Take Me Out Liner
Photo credit: My Frugal Adventures
These pencil liners have a fantastic price point and are very high quality which allows for guilt free purchases of many colours as well as fun glimmer shades. The pigment is vibrant and lasts for hours with zero creasing. I was amazed. To sanitize, simply sharpen every time you use.
M.A.C Fluidline Gel Liner
Photo credit: Aku menulis apa
This gel liner is truly amazing. It is like a liquid liner with a softer finish. The application is “foolproof” when applied with an eyeliner brush, such as the #210 by M.A.C. I love the texture of this eyeliner as you can layer on for very dramatic results as well as smudge easily as well.
Almay Liquid Liner
Photo credit: Almay
This eyeliner, although only available in black and dark brown, goes on so smoothly. The bottle is a little ink well which prevents drying out and the tip of the applicator is flexible for perfect application every time, even for the thinnest lines. The water resistant formula lasts for 16 hours. True story. I have worn this for hours with perfect results. The price is great as well.
Feature Image: Manuel Marin, Wiki Commons
Natalia Zurawska
Author
Natalia Zurawska is a professional hair & make-Up artist. She has worked on many editorials for leading fashion and wedding magazines. Her make up artistry and hair styling have been seen in Anokhi Magazine, Vogue Italia Pelle, Driven, La'G, Caribbean Bride and many more. Con...