How to Apply Eyeliner as a Beginner: Step-by-Step Guide & Tips
Eyeliner can seem intimidating if you’ve never tried it before, but with the right approach and a few tips, anyone can master the look—even on the very first try. Here’s a simple, beginner-friendly guide to help you get started.
Choose Your Eyeliner Wisely
- Pencil Eyeliner: Easiest for beginners. It’s forgiving, easy to control, and great for a natural look. Always sharpen your pencil for the most precise lines.
- Gel Eyeliner: Good for bold lines! This can be smudged for a softer effect. Requires a brush for application.
- Liquid Eyeliner: Creates sharp, dramatic lines. Look for a felt-tip applicator for more control.
Step-by-Step Application
- Prep Your EyesStart with clean, dry eyelids. If you’re wearing eyeshadow, apply eyeliner before mascara and after shadow to allow for easy corrections
- Get Close to the MirrorSit or stand close to a mirror so you can see your lash line clearly.
- Start with Small StrokesUse short, gentle strokes or a stamping motion instead of trying to draw one continuous line. This gives you more control and helps to control mistakes!Begin in the middle of your upper lash line and work outward, then connect from the inner corner to the center.
- Follow Your Lash LineKeep the liner as close to your lashes as possible. Use your lash line as a guide for a natural shape and look.
- Connect and FillGo back and fill in any gaps along the line. If you want a thicker line, add another layer using a little more pressure.
- You can try a Wing for a really bold look...... if you want to.For a simple wing, place a small piece of tape or a post-it note at the outer corner of your eye angled toward your brow as a guide. Draw your wing along the edge, then connect it with your lash line.
- For a simple wing, place a small piece of tape or a post-it at the outer corner of your eye angled toward your brow as a guide. Draw your wing along the edge, then connect it to your lash line1.
- Clean UpUse a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover or a small brush with concealer to tidy up any mistakes!
Tips & Tricks for Beginners
- Rest Your Hand: Steady your hand by resting your pinky on your cheek- this will help.
- Don’t Worry About Perfection: Uneven lines are can still look normal—just smudge them with a brush or Q-tip if you need to fix.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Try practicing your strokes on the back of your hand before applying is a good way to become better.
- Choose the Right Color: For a natural look, start with brown or charcoal instead of dark black.
- Remove Mistakes Gently: Use a gentle makeup remover on a cotton pad to erase errors without being too rough on your skin. You do not want to end up looking like someone wearing makeup and red marks all over your face =)
Final Thoughts
Eyeliner is all about PRACTICE and experimenting with what works best for your eye shape and style. Start simple, be PATIENT, and soon you’ll be able to create everything with confidence!