3 Basic Things to Know Before Applying Eyeliner

3 Basic Things You Should Know Before Applying Eyeliner Eyeliner is an
important area of cosmetics. It can help to give you a bold look and
outline your eye area without having to spend a lot of time or effort.
No matter whether you want a soft outline or a bold, dramatic stroke,
you are able to embellish your eyes with several minutes in front of
the mirror.

Choose An Eyeliner

There are a few main factors to take into consideration when you decide

to use eyeliner. What color or texture, and type of application will you

want to use? Eyeliner will usually be available in pencils, cream, or a liquid.

While you may not be aware of the range of colors available, you're not

limited to black anymore. As a general rule of thumb, people with darker

hair should go with darker shades, and lighter hair should go with lighter

shades, but you don't have to stick with these rules if you're going for

a different look.

For a smooth, fine line, a cream eyeliner or liquid eyeliner is the best
choice. These are easy to control and can be applied closely to the
lash line. For a smudgy, blurred look, consider a pencil. These pencils
usually are a little chunkier and you'll typically end up with a thicker
line.You can smudge them with a fingertip to get a bolder look.You
don't even necessarily need to buy eyeliner, you can also use a
powdered eye-shadow.Mix with a small amount of water and use an
eyeliner brush. Be aware that while it's easy to choose less expensive
types, you may decide to get a nice brand, especially if you like to
wear eyeliner on a consistent basis.

Image via maybelline.com

Choose Your Look

Are you wanting to end up with a bright, daytime look, a pensive evening

look, or something else entirely? The thickness of the eyeliner in addition

to the placement are all going to give you a different appearance.

For your upper eyelash line, you want to always apply the liner as close to

your lash line as possible. Start with a thin line at first. You can always build

it up later if you want, but thinner is best to start out with. If your eyes turn

down at the ends, use the eyeliner to turn them up slightly and create a more

youthful look. If you want to be more dramatic, line the outside corner of your

eyes more thickly. But, don't extend your liner much past the outside corner

of your eye. This gives you a theatrical look you probably don't want.
For your lower lash line, you want to be a little lighter with your application.

Line only the outer two thirds of the eye to avoid giving yourself a ringed

appearance. The eyeliner should also connect with the back corner of your

upper eyelash line to create a natural look. It's also a good idea to use a

thinner line. Heavy application on the lower lid is going to look like your makeup

is smeared, not a great overall appearance.