Whether you’re a beginner trying to get that first flawless wing or a makeup pro perfecting your technique, applying eyeliner can be tricky. Even the most experienced beauty enthusiasts have days when their eyeliner just doesn’t cooperate. From shaky hands to mismatched wings, getting it right every time is no easy feat.
In this post, we’re sharing 10 amazing hacks to help you apply eyeliner perfectly, no matter your skill level. With these tips, you’ll be able to slay that wing, sharpen that cat-eye, and make your eyes pop with ease.
1. Choose the Right Eyeliner Formula for Your Skill Level
The type of eyeliner you use can make all the difference. Beginners might find gel or pencil liners easier to control, while liquid eyeliners provide sharper, precise lines but require a steadier hand. If you’re just starting, try pencil eyeliners for simple, smudged looks. For more advanced makeup lovers, a felt-tip liquid liner is perfect for clean wings.
Pro Tip: Waterproof eyeliners stay longer and prevent smudging on oily lids or humid days.
2. Use Tape for a Foolproof Wing
One of the oldest tricks in the book, but it works like magic! Cut a small piece of scotch or washi tape, align it from the corner of your eye toward the tail of your eyebrow, and trace along the tape. Once you’re done, peel the tape off for a perfect, sharp wing every time.
Hack: If you don’t want to use tape, a credit card edge or sticky note can work just as well.
3. Stabilize Your Hand by Anchoring Your Elbow
If shaky hands are your biggest challenge, try resting your elbow on a flat surface while applying your eyeliner. You can also anchor your pinky finger against your cheek for extra control. This trick helps reduce trembling, resulting in smoother, straighter lines.
Tip: Using a magnifying mirror can also help if you’re struggling with precision.
4. Create the Outline First, Then Fill It In
Instead of trying to draw the perfect line in one go, sketch an outline of your desired eyeliner shape first. Draw small dashes or dots along the lash line, then connect them slowly. Once you have your desired shape, fill in the gaps.
This technique is particularly helpful for creating symmetrical wings or cat-eye looks.
5. Warm Up Your Pencil Liner for Smoother Application
Ever tried using a pencil eyeliner that just won’t glide smoothly? Warm it up by rubbing the tip between your fingers or holding it under a hairdryer for a few seconds. This softens the formula, making it much easier to apply without tugging on your delicate eyelid.
Tip: If you overheat the pencil, let it cool for a few seconds before applying to avoid smudges.
6. Tightline for a Natural Look
Tightlining is a technique where you apply eyeliner to the upper waterline (the inner part of your upper lash line). This makes your lashes look fuller and more defined without an obvious line of eyeliner on your lid. Use a waterproof pencil or gel liner for this hack to prevent smudging.
Hack: Look down while applying to keep your eyes from watering.
7. Use a Q-tip or Cotton Swab for Quick Fixes
Mistakes are inevitable, but don’t stress! Keep Q-tips or cotton swabs handy to clean up uneven lines or smudges. Dip the swab in micellar water or makeup remover for a precise cleanup without ruining your entire eye look.
Tip: If your wing isn’t sharp enough, use a little concealer on a brush to define the edges.
8. Try the Spoon Trick for Curved Wings
If you love dramatic, curved wings, grab a spoon from your kitchen! Hold the handle along the outer edge of your eye to draw a straight line. Then, use the rounded part of the spoon to create a curved flick. This hack makes symmetrical, dramatic wings a breeze.
Bonus: The spoon can also double as a shield to prevent mascara smudges when applying eyeliner along the lash line.
9. Layer with Eyeshadow for Long-lasting Liner
If your eyeliner tends to fade throughout the day, try setting it with a matching eyeshadow. Apply your eyeliner as usual, then gently tap a similar shade of powder eyeshadow on top with an angled brush. This adds intensity and ensures your liner stays put all day long.
Pro Tip: For a softer, smoky look, skip the eyeliner and apply dark eyeshadow with a damp brush.
10. Practice Makes Perfect—Start Small and Build Up
Nobody gets the perfect eyeliner look on the first try! Practice is the key to mastering your technique. Start with a simple line along your upper lash line and gradually build confidence to experiment with different styles—like wings, cat eyes, or graphic eyeliner trends.
Hack: Keep makeup wipes handy when practicing so you can clean up mistakes quickly and start over without frustration.
Bonus: Popular Eyeliner Styles You Can Try
- Classic Wing: A sharp flick that extends beyond the outer corner of the eye.
- Cat Eye: A thicker, more dramatic version of the winged eyeliner.
- Smudged Liner: A soft, smoky effect perfect for a casual look.
- Double Wing: Two parallel wings extending from the outer corner of the eye.
- Graphic Liner: Bold, artistic shapes beyond the lash line, perfect for runway-inspired looks.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of eyeliner takes a bit of patience, but these 10 hacks will make it much easier to get flawless results every time. Whether you prefer a bold cat-eye or a subtle line to define your eyes, these tricks will help you get that perfect eyeliner look without the frustration. Remember, it’s okay if you don’t get it right the first time—eyeliner is all about experimenting and having fun! So grab your favorite liner, follow these hacks, and let your eyes do the talking. Happy lining!