How to Apply Eyeliner Flawlessly, According to Pro Makeup Artists

If you’ve ever watched a makeup artist work their magic, you know they have an infinite number of little tricks up their sleeves. Such techniques might appear to come as second nature to the pros, but to us regular guys, it’s a totally different story — especially when it comes to eyeliner. To help us achieve flawless eyeliner application, as if a makeup artist did it themselves, we learned a few tricks of the trade and are sharing the wealth of knowledge with you, ahead. 

Eyeliner Tip #1: Get Super Close to the Lash Line

This is one of the biggest eyeliner challenges. If you don’t get close enough to the lash line, you lose the intensity you were trying to create with eyeliner. “Always make sure to get close to the lash line, leaving no gaps,” says professional makeup artist Colleen Runne. To make the job a little easier, consider using a wider, flat brush to get the eyeliner right where you want it.  

Eyeliner Tip #2: Make It Glide on Smoothly

To get a soft, clean liner look, Lancôme national makeup artist Ricardo Costales says to first apply a thin layer of eyeshadow. This will help the eyeliner glide on to your lid, allowing you to create a soft line. “It also makes the eyeliner last longer without giving you a harsh look.”  

Eyeliner Tip #3: Don’t Apply It in a Line

Creating the perfect line in one sweep is hard — Runne knows a better way: “A lot of women think they have to make one single line with the eyeliner. Rather, you can do a series of small strokes across the lash line, kind of like a connect-the-dots sort of thing.” You’ll make fewer mistakes and end up with a more even application.  

Eyeliner Tip #4: Mix It Up Without Starting Over

You can switch things up and take your look from day to night with one simple addition. “To change an eyeliner look without redoing your makeup, apply a bold or brighter shadow on top of your brown or black liner,” says Costales. “Mixing it together will help you create an edgy, more dramatic look.”

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