Choose the right type for you
Eyeliner comes in several forms, and the right choice depends on your experience and the look you are going for.
Kohl pencil is perfect for beginners. The soft, wax-based consistency makes it easy to work with and simple to correct. Great for a smoky, relaxed look and works brilliantly as a base before liquid eyeliner.
Gel liner is applied with a brush, giving you full control over thickness and sharpness. Usually rich in pigment and ideal for a dark, dramatic look.
Liquid eyeliner delivers the sharpest lines and the most defined winged liner, but requires more practice. Once you have mastered it, nothing beats it for precision and staying power.
Don't be afraid to make mistakes
Everyone makes them — even the most experienced makeup artists. Think of mistakes as part of the learning process and practise on a quiet evening when you're not in a rush. Not going to plan? Wipe it off and start again. That is exactly how you improve.
The product matters
If your eyeliner crumbles, lacks depth of colour, or is difficult to work with, it is time to switch. Choose an eyeliner that is rich in pigment, easy to apply, and stays in place all day without smudging. That is the foundation of a great result, regardless of technique.
A steady hand makes all the difference
Sit down when you apply your eyeliner and rest your elbow on a flat surface. Look downward into the mirror rather than straight ahead. This gives you more control and a steadier hand — and you will notice the difference immediately.
The best tricks for a perfect line
Start with dots. Place small dots along the lash line and at the wing before you fill them in. This helps you get even lines on both eyes and makes it easier to control the shape.
Prime with a kohl pencil. Draw a line with kohl first, then fill in with liquid eyeliner on top for a sharper and longer-lasting finish.
The tape trick. Stick a piece of tape beneath your eye at an angle towards your eyebrow and paint along the edge for a perfectly straight winged liner every time.
Correct mistakes with an angled brush dipped in micellar water. A small amount of concealer also works well to cover minor imperfections.
Keep your eyeliner in place all day
Always prime your eyelid with concealer or a primer and set it with powder before applying your eyeliner. This absorbs the oil from the eyelid and creates a dry, even base that keeps your eyeliner in place considerably longer.
The perfect eyeliner takes time to master, but with the right product and the right technique, you will get there faster than you think.
