Alright, makeup artists, let’s talk eyeliner. We all know it’s a necessary evil, right? Some people are masters, and then there are others who can barely get the pencil to stay straight. 😅 Whether you’re working with clients or just giving advice, here are the top 5 mistakes I see ALL the time and how you can fix them in a flash.
- Not Using the Right Formula for the Look
This one’s so basic, but it trips people up ALL the time. Some people are obsessed with liquid liner for everything—like, no. If you’re going for a soft, smudgy look, liquid liner is your worst enemy. Instead, try a gel liner or pencil. Liquid is perfect for sharp, defined lines (hello cat-eye), but it can be harsh for a more relaxed, everyday vibe.
Tip: Pick your eyeliner based on the vibe. For a more natural look, reach for a soft pencil. For bold and dramatic, liquid’s your friend. 💥
- Skipping the Tightlining
Tightlining is a GAME-CHANGER, especially if you want that fuller lash look without the hassle of false lashes. Some people skip this step entirely, which is a big mistake. Tightlining the upper waterline adds fullness to your lashes, making your eyes pop without looking like you’ve got a ton of makeup on.
Tip: Get a waterproof pencil for tightlining. It’ll stay put all day without smudging. And if you’re working on clients? Do this before mascara—trust me. 👁️
- Applying Liner Without Prepping the Lids
How many times have I seen eyeliner all smudged out by noon because someone skipped the prep? A smooth, primed lid is a must, especially if you want your eyeliner to stay in place all day (or all night). You need a primer, or at the very least, a dusting of translucent powder to set everything in place.
Tip: Don’t skip priming! Even a tiny bit of setting powder or a cream shadow base will help your liner stick and last longer. You’ll avoid that sad smudge under the eyes by lunchtime. 💅
- Using the Wrong Shape for the Eye
Okay, I’ve been guilty of this, but listen up—eye shape matters when it comes to eyeliner! What looks good on one person may not work for another. So if you’re doing winged eyeliner, for example, not everyone’s eye shape is gonna vibe with a super dramatic wing. Some people look better with a more rounded shape, while others can rock a fierce wing that looks like it could take off.
Tip: Tailor the shape to the person’s eyes. Almond-shaped? Go for a flick! Round eyes? Stick with a softer line for definition. Trust me, it’ll make a difference. 🎯
- Not Fixing Uneven Lines
This one is sooo easy to overlook, but let’s be real—no one’s eyeliner is perfectly symmetrical, no matter how hard we try. The trick is not to get frustrated, but to use a cotton swab (or even a clean brush) to tidy things up. A little concealer on the edges can work wonders for making your liner sharp and on-point.
Tip: Don’t stress over a little unevenness. A cotton swab with makeup remover or micellar water can clean up the edges in no time! 💧
Eyeliner doesn’t have to be a struggle, I promise. Avoid these common mistakes, and you’ll be cranking out flawless eyeliner looks in no time. If your clients are picky about their liner (spoiler: they will be), you’ll know exactly how to fix things quickly and easily.
Remember—practice makes perfect, and there’s always room to play around. Go ahead, get your eyeliner kit out, and start perfecting that wing! ✨
