Eyeliner is one of those steps in a make-up routine that can either make or break the overall look. For make-up artists, achieving that cat-eye or arabian wing is no sweat. However, when it comes to the average make-up beginner, the concept of drawing a basic straight black line can be absolutely mortifying!
We’ve done our research and compiled a list of top ten eyeliner hacks for all those makeup newbies who really want to master the classic wing, or even a super sultry look.
Choose an eyeliner product that works for you
A pencil or kajal liner can be really hard to work with as it may smudge. Keep them sharp and remember: the bottom lash line does not always need to be lined in black!
Gel liners will require a fine angled brush and quite a sturdy hand to achieve a wing. So if you’re not experienced with matte gels then rather put that pot down!
Liquid liners are the best eyeliner tools, especially when it comes to precision. Most make-up brands have a variety of sizes. So, whether you want a bold or super thin wing, there’s a tool for every occasion.
Black is not a must
Eyeliners come in a variety of colours. Pick one based on the look you want to achieve.
Black = striking
White = bigger
Brown and Nude: subtle, but uplifting
Navy and green: trendy
Neons and Pastels: risky
Eye shape is Everything
One size and shape does not fit all when it comes to eyeliner. Your liner style needs to be based on the shape of your eye.
Monolid: a very simple line will suffice. Try to avoid thick lines!
Hooded: opt for the all-over kind of liner look (preferably with a brown pencil) and don’t be afraid to smoke it out.
Round: a squared-off line in place of a curvy flick should be your go to style.
Almond: a classic cat-eye will stand out.
Downturned: try to flick your wing up extra high to get a feline look.
Primer Please!
Applying a primer and base to your lid before adding your liner makes the job much easier and keeps your eye make-up on for longer.
Eyeshadow Fix Up
Drawing a straight line can be pressurising. Rather sketch out your line with small dots or dashes first and then fill in the rest of the line with steady, smooth strokes. Do not get all frazzled as this will make your hand shaky and unreliable when drawing your lines. Keep your elbow flat on a surface and rest your pinky finger on your cheek to remain stable at all times. If your line appears to be patchy and uneven, try using some black eyeshadow on a thin, angled liner brush to clean it up.
Tip-Tape
Angle a piece of scotch tape along the side of your eyes to create a perfect, sharp line. Let your liner dry before removing the tape to avoiding smudging.
Remember to Tightline!
If you do not add a rim of liner on your waterline, it may look as if there is a gap of skin between your winged liner and your lash line – not pretty!
If all fails, smudge it out!
If you’ve tried your best and still messed up, opt for the smokey look and gently smudge your line out with a domed smudging brush.