Are you tired of struggling with liquid eyeliner, never quite achieving that perfect winged look? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the best techniques for applying liquid eyeliner, helping you achieve flawless and precise lines every time. From choosing the right brush to mastering the flick, we’ve got you covered. Say goodbye to smudges and uneven lines, and hello to defined and sultry eyes!
Understanding Liquid Eyeliner
What is liquid eyeliner?
Liquid eyeliner is a type of cosmetic product that is specifically designed to define and enhance the eyes. It comes in a liquid form, usually housed in a small tube or pen-like applicator. Unlike pencil or gel eyeliners, liquid eyeliner provides a precise and intense line, allowing for various eye makeup looks to be achieved.
Benefits of using liquid eyeliner
There are several benefits to using liquid eyeliner. Firstly, its liquid formula makes it ideal for creating sharp and precise lines. This allows for the creation of different eyeliner styles, ranging from classic and everyday looks to more dramatic and bold cat eyes. Additionally, liquid eyeliner typically has a longer-lasting formula, ensuring that your eye makeup stays in place throughout the day without smudging or fading. Lastly, liquid eyeliner often delivers a more intense and pigmented color payoff, making your eyes appear more defined and captivating.
Different types of liquid eyeliner
Liquid eyeliner comes in various formulations and applicator styles, each catering to different preferences and skill levels. The most common types of liquid eyeliner include:
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Pen eyeliner: This type of liquid eyeliner utilizes a pen-like applicator with a fine and flexible tip. It offers ease of use and precision, making it beginner-friendly.
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Dip brush eyeliner: Dip brush eyeliner typically comes in a small pot or jar, with a separate brush for application. This type allows for more flexibility in creating different line widths and styles.
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Felt-tipped pen eyeliner: Felt-tipped pen eyeliner features a felt tip that resembles a marker. It provides control and precision while being convenient and easy to use.
Now that you have a better understanding of liquid eyeliner, let’s move on to the next section on prepping your face before applying eyeliner.
Prepping Your Face
The importance of a clean face
Before applying any makeup, including liquid eyeliner, it’s crucial to start with a clean face. This means removing any dirt, oil, or other impurities that may be present. Not only does a clean face serve as a suitable canvas for makeup application, but it also helps your makeup products adhere better and last longer.
To ensure a clean face, start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser, suitable for your skin type. Follow up with a toner to remove any leftover residue, and finish with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
Choosing the right primer
Priming your face before applying makeup can make a significant difference in the overall finish and longevity of your makeup. When it comes to liquid eyeliner, using an eye primer specifically formulated for the eyelids can help create a smooth and even base for the eyeliner application. Eye primers also prevent creasing, smudging, and fading of the eyeliner throughout the day.
Choose an eye primer that matches your skin type and concerns, whether it be oil control, brightening, or hydrating. Apply a small amount onto your eyelids and blend it in using your fingertips or a brush.
Applying foundation and concealer
To achieve a flawless and even base for your eyeliner, it’s important to apply foundation and concealer to your face, including around the eye area. Foundation helps to even out your skin tone, while concealer helps to cover any blemishes, dark circles, or discoloration.
Choose a foundation and concealer that matches your skin tone and type. Apply foundation all over your face and blend it in using a brush, sponge, or your fingertips. Dab concealer onto any areas that need extra coverage, such as under the eyes or on blemishes, and blend it in gently using a clean brush or your fingertips.
Now that your face is prepped and ready, let’s move on to the next section to explore different eyeliner styles.
Knowing Eyeliner Styles
Classic Eyeliner
The classic eyeliner style is timeless and versatile, suitable for both everyday and special occasions. This style involves lining the upper lash line as close to the roots of the lashes as possible, creating a thin and defined line. The goal is to accentuate the eyes subtly without overpowering them.
To achieve the classic eyeliner look, start from the inner corner of your eye and gradually apply the liquid eyeliner along the upper lash line, getting thicker towards the outer corner if desired. Keep the line close to the lashes to create a seamless and natural effect.
Winged Eyeliner (Cat Eye)
The winged eyeliner, also known as a cat eye, adds a touch of drama and glamour to your eye makeup. It involves creating a wing or flick at the outer corner of the eye, extending beyond the natural shape of the eye. The wing can be subtle and understated or bold and striking, depending on personal preference.
To achieve the winged eyeliner look, start by drawing a thin line along the upper lash line, following the natural curvature of your eye. Then, at the outer corner, extend the line upwards and outwards, creating a flick or wing shape. The length and angle of the wing can be adjusted to suit your desired look and eye shape.
Smoky Eyeliner
The smoky eyeliner style adds depth and intensity to your eye makeup, creating a sultry and smoldering effect. This style involves smudging and blending the liquid eyeliner for a softer and more diffused look. It can be achieved using a pencil eyeliner or by smudging a liquid eyeliner.
To create a smoky eyeliner look, start by applying the liquid eyeliner along the upper lash line, slightly thicker than the classic eyeliner style. Then, using a smudging brush or your fingertip, gently blur and smudge the eyeliner to create a smoky effect. The key is to blend and soften the lines while maintaining definition.
Now that you know about different eyeliner styles, let’s explore the various types of liquid eyeliners available.
Choosing the Right Type of Liquid Eyeliner
Pen eyeliner
Pen eyeliner, often referred to as a liquid liner pen or marker, is a popular choice for many due to its ease of use and precise application. It typically comes with a fine and flexible tip that allows for smooth and controlled lines. Pen eyeliners are great for beginners or those who prefer a straightforward and hassle-free application process.
Dip brush eyeliner
Dip brush eyeliner, also known as pot or jar eyeliner, involves using a separate brush for application. The eyeliner is housed in a pot or jar, and the brush is dipped into the product before applying it to the eyes. This type of eyeliner provides more flexibility in creating different line widths and styles, making it suitable for those who prefer versatility and customization.
Felt-tipped pen eyeliner
Felt-tipped pen eyeliner combines the control and precision of a pen eyeliner with the convenience of a marker-like felt tip. The felt tip provides stability and allows for easy maneuvering along the lash line. This type of eyeliner is ideal for those who want a balance between ease of use and precision.
Now that you’re aware of the different types of liquid eyeliners, let’s move on to the next step: drawing a guide line.
Drawing a Guide Line
Using a pencil eyeliner as a guide
Drawing a guide line using a pencil eyeliner can help ensure precision and accuracy when applying liquid eyeliner. Using a slightly lighter or contrasting shade to your liquid eyeliner, gently trace along the upper lash line to create a subtle guideline. This guide line will serve as a reference point for your liquid eyeliner application.
The importance of a steady hand
Having a steady hand is crucial when applying liquid eyeliner, as it allows for smoother and more even lines. To achieve a steady hand, rest your elbow on a stable surface, such as a table or countertop, and use your ring finger to support your hand while applying the eyeliner. This will help minimize shaking or wobbling.
Deciding on the thickness of the line
When drawing your guide line or applying the liquid eyeliner, it’s essential to decide on the desired thickness of the line. Thinner lines tend to create a more natural and subtle look, while thicker lines add more drama and intensity. Consider your personal style preferences, eye shape, and the occasion when deciding on the thickness of your eyeliner.
Now that you have a guide line in place, it’s time to dive into applying the liquid eyeliner.
Applying the Liquid Eyeliner
Starting from the inner corner
When applying liquid eyeliner, start from the inner corner of your eye and work your way towards the outer corner. This allows for better control and precision, as well as a more natural-looking application. Begin by placing the tip of the eyeliner as close to the roots of the lashes as possible, and gradually drag it along the lash line.
Applying small strokes
Instead of attempting to draw one continuous line, it’s recommended to apply the liquid eyeliner in small strokes. This technique provides better control and allows you to build up the line gradually. Begin by creating a thin line and then adjust the thickness or intensity as desired by layering additional strokes.
Filling in the gaps
After applying the initial line, go back and fill in any gaps or uneven areas. This will ensure a smooth and seamless look. Use the tip of the eyeliner to connect any missing spots or inconsistencies, and ensure that the line appears continuous along the upper lash line.
Great job on applying the liquid eyeliner! Now, let’s move on to creating a wing for a more dramatic effect.
Creating a Wing
Understanding the flick technique
Creating a wing or flick at the outer corner of the eye is a popular technique to achieve a winged eyeliner look. The flick technique involves extending the eyeliner line outwards and upwards, mimicking the shape of a wing or flick. To create the flick, imagine a diagonal line extending from the outer corner of your eye towards the end of your eyebrow, and draw a line that connects to the existing eyeliner.
Positioning to avoid droopy effect
To avoid a droopy or downturned appearance, pay attention to the angle and positioning of the wing. The wing should follow the natural line of your lower lash line, angling slightly upwards towards the end of your eyebrow. By positioning the wing correctly, you can create the illusion of lifted and more lifted eyes.
Strengthening the line
To enhance and strengthen the winged eyeliner look, trace over the initial line and flick with the liquid eyeliner again. This will make the line more defined and ensure that the wing appears sharp and precise. Adjust the thickness of the wing to match the style you wish to achieve, whether it be subtle or bold.
Now that you’ve mastered the winged eyeliner technique, let’s move on to cleaning up any mistakes that may have occurred during the application process.
Cleaning Up Mistakes
Using a cotton swab and makeup remover
If you accidentally make a mistake or smudge the liquid eyeliner, don’t fret. The easiest way to clean up mistakes is by dipping a cotton swab into a small amount of makeup remover or micellar water. Gently swipe the cotton swab over the area that needs correction to remove any excess or incorrect liner. Be careful not to rub too harshly, as this could smudge the rest of your makeup.
Reapplying makeup
After cleaning up mistakes, you may need to reapply some makeup to ensure a seamless appearance. If necessary, reapply a thin layer of foundation or concealer to the corrected area and gently blend it in with the rest of your makeup.
Correction using concealer
Another method to correct mistakes is by using concealer. Using a small brush or your fingertips, dab a small amount of concealer onto the area that needs correction, and gently blend it in. This will help cover any smudges or mistakes, leaving you with a perfectly defined and clean eyeliner look.
Now that your eyeliner is looking flawless, it’s time to add the final touches to enhance your eye makeup.
Adding Final Touches
Using mascara to highlight the eyes
Applying mascara after liquid eyeliner can help enhance your eye makeup and make your lashes appear longer and fuller. Choose a mascara formula and brush that suits your desired effect. Begin by wiggling the mascara wand at the roots of your lashes and gradually coat the length of your lashes, moving the wand in a slight zigzag motion for maximum coverage. Focus on the upper lashes for a more defined look.
Considering the use of eyeshadow
To further enhance your eye makeup, you can add eyeshadow to your look. Select eyeshadow shades that complement your eyeliner and eye color. Apply a base eyeshadow all over your eyelid to create a smooth canvas. Then, choose a slightly darker shade for the crease to add depth and dimension. Blend the eyeshadow colors seamlessly for a cohesive and sophisticated look.
The impact of eye color
When choosing eyeshadow shades to pair with your liquid eyeliner, consider the impact that your eye color can have on the overall look. For example, those with brown eyes can experiment with warm tones like bronze or copper, while blue-eyed individuals can opt for cooler tones like purples or blues to make their eyes pop. Green-eyed individuals can play with earthy and complementary shades like gold or olive.
Now that you’ve added the final touches to your eye makeup, it’s important to know how to maintain your eyeliner throughout the day.
Maintaining Eyeliner Through the Day
Avoiding liquid eyeliner smudges
To avoid smudging and smearing of your liquid eyeliner throughout the day, there are a few techniques you can employ. Firstly, ensure that your eyelids are free from excess oil by lightly dusting translucent powder or applying an eyeshadow primer to set your eyeliner in place. Additionally, avoid rubbing or touching your eyes frequently, as this can cause the eyeliner to smudge. Lastly, consider setting your eyeliner with a matching eyeshadow or setting spray to increase its longevity.
Choosing waterproof eyeliner
If you anticipate facing any moisture, such as rain or tears, choosing a waterproof liquid eyeliner can help prevent smudging or running. Waterproof formulas are designed to withstand moisture and last longer, providing you with peace of mind throughout the day.
Reapplying the eyeliner
Over time, your eyeliner may fade or smudge, especially if you have been active or in humid conditions. If necessary, keep a small travel-sized liquid eyeliner in your purse or bag for touch-ups. Simply reapply a thin layer over the existing eyeliner, ensuring that you maintain the desired shape and intensity.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your liquid eyeliner stays in place and continues to enhance your eyes throughout the day.
In conclusion, mastering the art of applying liquid eyeliner takes practice, patience, and the right techniques. From understanding the different eyeliner styles to choosing the right type of liquid eyeliner and applying it with precision, each step contributes to creating a stunning eye makeup look. Remember to prep your face properly, draw a guide line for reference, and clean up any mistakes along the way. Finally, adding the finishing touches and maintaining your eyeliner throughout the day will ensure that your eye makeup remains flawless and captivating. So go ahead, have fun experimenting with liquid eyeliner, and let your eyes do the talking!
