The Best Eye Makeup Tutorials for Mastering Liner, Mascara and More

Most of us would agree that in the beauty world, eye makeup is the holy grail. While the problem often lies in finding the perfect eyeshadow look, mascara wand or brow-shaping method, once all these components are in place, you reach a state of beauty nirvana that can only be described as fabulous. Reaching this place of perfection, however, can be tricky because no two pairs of eyes (or brows) are the same. What works for one person does not always work for another, which is why we’ve broken it down for you. Try these makeup tutorials for mastering different eye makeup techniques. 

The Eyeliner Trick for Every Eye Shape

Almond-shaped, hooded, round, wide-set and close-set — this flawless eyeliner trick works for every eye shape. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial to try it yourself. 

STEP 1: Make Tiny Dots

Use the pointed side of the eyeliner brush and a cream or gel eyeliner to create a line of tiny dots as close as possible to your upper lash line.

STEP 2: Connect the Dots

Taking the smudging side, blend the dots together to create one smooth, unified stroke. “I promise any person who has trouble making a straight line will be an expert in using eyeliner,” says makeup artist Ricardo Costales about the method.

STEP 3: Flair It

To add a bold flair, Costales says to layer a small amount of any bright eye shadow above your eyeliner for a pop of color. Watch the tutorial ahead that delves even more into eye shapes and how to figure out which ones you have.

How to Get Perfectly Shaped Eyebrows

There are endless tips and tricks out there designed to help you get the eyebrows of your dreams. Our obsession with brows runs so deep, we created a crash course on how to shape your brows at home. Kiss over-plucked, uneven brows good-bye with these four eyebrow tips, ahead.

TIP 1: The inner edge of your brow should line up with the outside of your nose.

TIP 2: The highest point of your arch should be where the diagonal line extending from the outside of your nose to the outside of your pupil.

TIP 3: Make a diagonal line from your nose to the outside corner of your eye — that’s where your brows should taper off.

TIP 4: The bottom of the inner and outer edges of your brow should line up horizontally.

To trim your eyebrows at home, these are the tools you’ll need.

Eyebrow Tool 1: Spoolie Brush  

The spoolie brush is really the unsung hero of beauty tools. It’s a must for separating eyelashes, removing mascara clumps and of course, combing and sculpting your brows. 

Eyebrow Tool 2: Small Eyebrow Scissors

After you’ve brushed all the hairs in one direction, snip any strands that are noticeably longer than others.

Eyebrow Tool 3: Brow Pencil

Before you begin to pluck, give yourself a guide. Fill in your brows with a brow pencil and then pluck away only the strays outside of the lines. 

Eyebrow Tool 4: Tweezers 

The most important tool is, of course, a sharp pair of tweezers. They will allow you to pluck with precision just like a pro and ensure you won’t miss any stray hairs. 

How to Layer Mascara 

Sometimes one tube doesn’t contain everything you want for your lashes — that’s where mascara layering comes in. Combining different mascaras with varying benefits can help you achieve the eyelash look you’re striving for. Here’s a tutorial for how to layer mascara.

STEP 1: Apply a Primer

Lash primers help to separate your lashes and allow for better mascara application to follow. When building onto your eye makeup look with mascara layering, you’ll always want to use a primer first. 

STEP 2: Apply Your Base Mascara

When selecting a base mascara, you'll want to make sure you pick a formula that will separate the lashes, like your primer. Start at the bottom of the lashes and use gentle wiggle motions as you glide the wand upward — this way you’ll be sure to get everything covered and prepped for your next layer of mascara. 

STEP 3: Apply Your Final Layer of Mascara

The final coat of mascara to your eyelashes is where you’ll really want to add volume and curl. Choose a product with a fatter, wide brush that will add thickness. In this step, you’ll want to be careful that your lashes don’t start to clump. 

Read More:

How to Trim Your Eyebrows, According to Brow Stylist Joey Healy

4 Highlighting Hacks That Will Glow Up Your Makeup Game

How to Apply Eyeliner Flawlessly, According to Pro Makeup Artists