Eyeliner is a makeup staple that can truly make or break a look. However, it can be a challenging task to get it right. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, these eight expert tips will help you achieve a perfectly applied eyeliner every time.

1. Choose the Right Eyeliner

First things first, the type of eyeliner you choose can make a big difference in your application technique. There are various types of eyeliners with different formulas and applicators, including gel, liquid, felt tip, pencil, and kohl.

Pencil eyeliners are ideal for beginners because they are easy to control and blend out. On the other hand, liquid liners are ideal for precise lines, but they require practice and a steady hand.

Gel liners sit in the middle between pencil and liquid liners, providing more control than liquid liners and more longevity than pencil liners.

2. Prep Your Eyelids

Before applying eyeliner, it’s essential to prep your eyelids with a primer or concealer. Doing so ensures that the eyeliner has a smooth and even base to adhere to, and it prevents smudging and creasing.

Moreover, a primer or concealer brightens up the eye area and covers any discoloration or veins.

3. Use a Guide

Using a guide helps create a straight line and a cohesive shape. You can use anything from a piece of tape to a business card to create a guide.

Simply place the guide on the outer corner of your eye and angle it towards your temple, then apply the eyeliner along the edge of the guide. This technique not only allows you to create symmetrical wings but also reduces the risk of ruining your eyeshadow by going over it with eyeliner.

4. Start Thin

Starting with thin lines and building them up gradually is key to achieving a clean and precise look. Begin by lining your upper lash line with small strokes, starting from the inner corner of the eye and working your way outward.

Next, line the lower lash line, making sure it is thinner than the upper line and meets at the outer corner. Once you have a base, you can go over it and thicken the line according to your preference.

5. Connect the Dots

If you’re struggling to create a straight line, try the connect-the-dots method. Start by placing small dots along your lash line with your eyeliner, then connect them together with light and short strokes.

This technique allows you to have more control and precision while avoiding jagged lines and wobbles.

6. Tightline Your Eyes

Tightlining your eyes means lining the upper waterline, which is the area between the lashes and the eyeball. Although it may feel uncomfortable, tightlining creates fuller-looking lashes and enhances the shape of your eyes.

To tightline, gently lift your upper lashes and apply eyeliner on the waterline with short strokes. You can also apply liner to the lower waterline if you want more definition.

7. Fix Mistakes

Even experienced makeup artists make mistakes, but the key is knowing how to fix them. If you make a mistake while applying eyeliner, don’t worry too much as there are various ways to fix it.

You can use a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover to remove the excess, dip a clean brush in concealer or foundation to smooth over the mistake, or use a black eyeshadow to blend out the liner and make it look intentional.

8. Set the Eyeliner

Setting your eyeliner is crucial if you want it to last all day without smudging or fading. You can set your liner with an eyeshadow that matches the color or use a setting spray to lock it in place.

Applying a transparent powder with a small brush over your liner helps it adhere to your eyelid and provides extra longevity.