How-To: Flawless Eyeliner Application for Beginners (And Not-So-Beginners!)

As a freelance makeup artist, I get a lot of questions from my clients on the proper way to apply cosmetics. The complaint that I hear the most is that eyeliner is one of the most difficult products to use. If you are having trouble lining your eyes, or are afraid to have your eye open with a pencil touching it, don't worry. There is hope! With just a few steps, you can have beautifully-lined eyes.

Supplies

First, choose a high-quality eyeliner. For beginners, a liquid or gel eyeliner is best. Dry pencils are hardest to use, so steer clear of them until you get more experience. You also need two or three cotton swabs that are slightly dampened with water. A mirror is also a must, as well as bright light and plenty of room to work.

Application - Top eyelid

First, apply eyeliner to one eye, using your mirror to guide you. Position your eyeliner pen over the inner corner of your eye right at your lash line, making sure not to touch the tear duct. Close your eye and draw the liner along your lash line, just barely touching the skin. Line your lid all the way to the outer corner of your eye. Don't worry about making a mess or drawing a perfect line - we'll fix this later. Repeat with your other eye. Keep in mind that you should NEVER pull the corner of your eye taught - let your eye relax. This will avoid wrinkles and crow's feet later.

Application - Water line

This is the most difficult part of the eyelining process, even for some seasoned professionals such as yours truly. The water line induces tears and anger in several of my clients. But, don't worry - you can flawlessly line your water line in just a few seconds. Close your eye about halfway and very, very gently pull your bottom lid down just slightly. It helps to keep your eye rolled upward. Then, gently line the waterline. If you get crazy or messy, again, don't worry - you can fix it!

Touch-up

After you have lined both eyes, look in the mirror and admire your handiwork. You have just lined your eyes - congratulations! If the lines are wavy, or you have eyeliner all the way up to your eyebrows, that is no problem. Take a damp cotton swab and gently wipe away the excess. You now have perfectly-lined eyes, and you are ready to face the world!

Flawless makeup application doesn't have to be a mystery or hassle. You can look model-perfect at home, with just a few steps. Good luck!