EYELINER BASICS: A BEGINNERS GUIDE TO FORMULAS AND APPLICATION TIPS

Eyeliner is meant to mimic thicker looking lashes and can also help make your eyes stand out, look bigger, or even change their shape. 

But before we get into the different looks and techniques let’s first go over the different formulas since you’ll want to choose the right one based on the look you’re going for.

These formulas come in pencil, gel or liquid form.

Pencils tend to give you a more natural look and are great for beginners since it’s easy to apply and fix mistakes.

I love that, with the pencils, I can soften out the edges of it and create more of a natural smokey look to it.

However, most pencil formulas are not usually smudge-proof so if you’re looking to create a more dramatic eyeliner look such as winged liner, then you may just use it to help create a guide before you follow with something more precise.

Smudge-proof eyeliners here!

Gel is like a hybrid between a pencil and a liquid eyeliner. You get some of benefits of a liquid eyeliner, without the expert skill level required to apply it.

Gel usually comes in a little pot with a creamy consistency, and you need a small liner brush to apply it. It’s great for applying a solid line or if you’re going for a more dramatic smudged smokey eye look.

Gel liner does take more time and precision to apply so if you are in a hurry, pencil liner may be a better choice.

Liquid eyeliner comes in either a tube with a small brush or in a pen form with a pointed felt tip.

It’s great for those who want to master dramatic cat eyes or more graphic eyeliner looks since the liquid formula gives the precision and hold that gels or pencils aren’t designed to do.

However, liquid is the most unforgiving of liners and require more time and a steady hand. Liquid should also not be used in the waterline as it can bleed into the eyes.

Want to keep your eye makeup natural looking? Check out the 3 elements of natural looking eye makeup here!