Though many would consider eyeliner a makeup bag must-have, there’s no denying that figuring out how to apply eyeliner if you’ve never used it before can be tricky. Part of that is due to the sheer number of formulas available, from classic pencil liners to gel formulas and ultra-pigmented liquid eyeliners. There’s also the fact that most eyeliner looks—including retro cat eyes, graphic wings, and even a subtle tightline—require precision and a steady hand. No matter how many eyeliner tutorials you’ve watched over the years, perfecting your technique takes practice. To help, we’re sharing some of our tried-and-tested eyeliner application tips to help you nail your next look. Read on to discover the best eyeliner tips, tricks, and pointers to master your craft. What Is the Easiest Type of Eyeliner to Apply? If you’re new to the big wonderful world of eyeliner, it can be daunting to know where to start. Is a liquid or pencil eyeliner better for beginners? What’s the upside to using kohl pencils versus gel formulas? For such a simple flourish to your face, the options can seem almost endless. While there are upsides to each of these different types of liners, some require a bit more time to get the hang of. The best eyeliners for beginners tend to be creamy pencil formulas, as they glide on smoothly without skipping, pulling, or tugging at the lid. Another advantage of pencil eyeliners is that they don’t need to dry down the way liquid or gel eyeliners typically do. This means you’re less likely to unintentionally smudge your liner as you’re swiping on mascara or concealing your under-eye area.
