Eyeliner is one of those makeup products that can instantly transform your look. Whether you want to create a subtle definition, a dramatic cat eye, or a smoky effect, eyeliner can help you achieve it.
However, eyeliner can also be tricky to apply, especially if you’re not used to it. You might end up with uneven lines, smudges, gaps, or wings that don’t match. Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. The good news is that there are some easy ways to fix common eyeliner mistakes and achieve flawless lines every time. Here are some tips and tricks to help you master the art of eyeliner.
Mistake #1: Pulling or tugging your eye when you draw on eyeliner
You might think that pulling your eye back will make it easier to draw a smooth line, but this can actually cause more problems. When you pull and then release your eye, it bounces back and so does your eyeliner. This can create bumps, wrinkles, and a check-mark shape at the end of your eye.
How to fix it: Instead of pulling your eye, use your fingers to gently anchor your skin near the outer corner of your eye. This will give you more stability and control without stretching your skin. You can also use a handheld mirror and hold it slightly below your eye so that you can see what you’re doing better2.
Mistake #2: Using the wrong eyeliner formula
There are different types of eyeliner formulas, such as pencil, gel, liquid, and powder. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your skill level, preference, and desired look.
For example, pencil liners are easy to use and blend, but they can also smudge and fade easily. Liquid liners are precise and long-lasting, but they can also be difficult to apply and remove. Gel liners are creamy and pigmented, but they can also dry out quickly and require a brush to apply. Powder liners are soft and natural-looking, but they can also fall out and create a mess.
How to fix it: Choose the right eyeliner formula for your needs and goals. If you’re a beginner or have shaky hands, opt for a pencil liner or a pen liner with a fine tip. These are more forgiving and easier to correct than liquid or gel liners. If you want a more dramatic or long-lasting look, go for a liquid or gel liner with a tapered brush. These will give you more intensity and staying power than pencil or powder liners. If you want a more subtle or smoky look, try a powder liner with an angled brush. These will give you more softness and blendability than pencil or liquid liners.
Mistake #3: Drawing the wing first
You might think that drawing the wing first will help you create the perfect cat eye, but this can actually make it harder to get the angle right. If you draw the wing first, you might end up with a wing that is too high, too low, too long, or too short for your eye shape. You might also have trouble connecting the wing to the rest of your eyeliner.
How to fix it: Instead of drawing the wing first, start by drawing a thin line along your upper lash line from the inner corner to the outer corner of your eye. Then, extend the line slightly past the outer corner of your eye at an angle that follows the direction of your lower lash line. This will help you create a wing that is proportional and flattering for your eye shape. You can then thicken the line as desired and fill in any gaps.
Mistake #4: Applying too much or too little eyeliner
Applying too much or too little eyeliner can affect how your eyes look. Applying too much eyeliner can make your eyes look smaller, heavier, or harsher than they really are. Applying too little eyeliner can make your eyes look undefined, dull, or incomplete.
How to fix it: The amount of eyeliner you apply depends on your personal preference and the occasion. However, as a general rule of thumb, less is more when it comes to eyeliner. You don’t want to overpower your eyes with too much product or draw attention away from other features. A thin line along your upper lash line is usually enough to enhance your eyes without going overboard. You can also apply a bit of eyeliner along your lower lash line or waterline for more definition or drama. Just make sure to keep it balanced and blended.
Mistake #5: Not setting your eyeliner
If you don’t set your eyeliner with a matching eyeshadow or powder, it might not last as long as you want it to. Your eyeliner might smudge, fade, or transfer throughout the day, especially if you have oily or hooded eyelids.
How to fix it: To make your eyeliner last longer and prevent it from moving, set it with a matching eyeshadow or powder. This will help lock in the colour and the shape of your eyeliner. Use a small brush to lightly dab the eyeshadow or powder over your eyeliner, following the same direction and angle. You can also use a translucent powder to set your eyeliner if you don’t have a matching eyeshadow.
Mistake #6: Not cleaning up your mistakes
No matter how careful you are, you might still make some mistakes when applying your eyeliner. You might end up with uneven lines, smudges, gaps, or wings that don’t match. If you don’t clean them up, they might ruin your whole look.
How to fix it: To clean up your mistakes, use a cotton swab dipped in micellar water or makeup remover. Gently swipe the cotton swab over the area where you want to erase or correct your eyeliner. Wait for the area to dry, then reapply your eyeliner as needed. You can also use a concealer to cover up any mistakes or sharpen your lines. Use a small brush to apply the concealer along the edge of your eyeliner, then blend it with your finger or a sponge.
Conclusion
Eyeliner can be a tricky makeup product to master, but with these tips and tricks, you can fix common mistakes and achieve flawless lines every time. So, don’t forget to have fun and experiment!
