Eyeliner Explained: What Type Should You Choose?

There are so many choices of eyeliner. How do you know which type to choose? Are you using the right one? Which one do you like best? Here are the basic types of eyeliner, what they are, and how to use them. Don’t just try one… try them all so you know which kind you like the best.

Cream mechanical pencil. This is gold standard of eyeliner today. It’s great if you’re especially in a hurry. You just twist the pencil and the eyeliner comes out of the tip, ready for you to apply. This type of eyeliner is typically creamy, though some are a little waxy. It glides on smoothly. Creamy, mechanical pencils don’t usually give you a sharp line (Tarte has an exception, though), but they are great for smudging and creating a smokey eye.

Wooden pencil. A wooden pencil will give you the sharpest possible line. The sharper you make it, the thinner the line you can create but puh-lease be careful not to poke yourself in the eye! These liners glide on smoothly, but stay put. This is my favorite type of liner, and I especially like Sephora’s Nano Liners. They are great quality yet inexpensive, so you can afford one in every color.

Crayon liner. This is typically a wooden liner that is fat, like a crayon. These are perfect for a super-smudgey, soft line. I like them to apply bright pops of color. You can skip all your shadows and liners. Just line the tops – or the bottoms – of your lids with a nice, fat line. Smudge if you like, or not if you don’t. Two simple coats of mascara will set off this easy-peasy look.

Powder Liner. Powder liner is the easiest to apply, and probably the most forgiving. You can use an eyeshadow or a powder liner. Some kinds you can dampen for staying power. Other kinds, you may want to layer over top of your cream liner. Just dip a tiny, liner brush into your shadow, and gently pat it along your eyelashes. Don’t allow any skin to show between your line and your lashes. And be careful to pat the liner on or you’ll have shadow falling down your cheeks.

Gel liner. Gel liner is pretty easy and forgiving to apply. You’ll need a tiny brush. Just dip it into the pot and get a small amount of liner. Carefully place the liner on your lash line. Don’t drag the brush along – just dab it into place. Gel liner creates a great, dramatic line that really stays put.

Liquid liner. Liquid liner gives you the most drama and staying power. You need a steady hand and a bit of practice, though, as liquid liner is not at all forgiving. The liner brush is longer and super thin. All you have to do is lay it in place. Flick the ends upward for a dramatic cat eye.

If you’re eyes are green, try a deep plum liner. If your eyes are blue, try a warm taupe. And if your eyes are brown, you can choose whatever color you like best. And don’t forget to smile – it adds a great sparkle to those beautifully decorated peepers.

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