And the prize goes to....
Eyeliners. We all have at least one. Some of us know how to properly use one, and some of us don’t. Regardless, we all can agree that a little bit of eyeliner can completely transform your eyes-and your face.
Today, I got asked what type of liner I used. When I told my friend which kind I preferred, she told me she had only tried one type. So today I have decided to explain (or at least attempt to) eyeliners. I have a feeling this will be a long post, so let’s begin!
Eyeliners come in four different formulations: pencil, kohl pencils, liquid, and gels. Each type is used to create different styles.
PENCILS: You can find these anywhere, and for cheap too. However, most of them do not go on smoothly and can be very hard to work with. I have tried all sorts of eye pencils, and the best ones by far are the Urban Decay 24/7 glide-on liners ($17). Their application is smooth, texture is creamy, and since they are waterproof, the lasting power is unbelievable.
Pros: In my opinion, pencil liners should be used to line lower lashlines, create a “smokey eye” effect, and work perfect to line the waterline (inner rim) of your eyes for a more dramatic look.
Cons: If you cannot afford to buy a high end pencil, finding a good “cheap” one at the drugstore can be difficult. Trust me, I have tried them all. The only alternative to the Urban Decay pencils that I can think of are the Covergirl liquiline blast pencils. Also these liners are not ideal for creating cat eyes/thin lines and are hard to work with.
KOHL PENCILS: These are a creamier version of the regular eye pencils. They may be in a pencil form, or in a mechanical or “clicker” type of pencil. The one I like to use is Mac’s Technakohl liners ($14.50). These do not need to be sharpened, and come in a variety of colors. My favorite is Photogravure (a mixture of black and brown).
Pros: Again, great for lining the waterline and lower lashline and creating a smokey eye effect. The Mac Technakohls will stay on all day, and are waterproof (as is Urban Decay).
Cons: There is no way you can make a thin and perfect line with these (or any other kind of pencil liners) especially if they are not sharpened. Think of it as trying to draw a thin line with a blunt crayon.
LIQUID LINERS: These are great for defining the eyes, making thin lines, and creating cat eye effects. My favorite liner of this type are the Lancome Artliners ($29).
Pros: provides more definition, gives precise lines and is long lasting.
Cons: harder to use than pencils, not recommended for the waterline, and can be hard to use.
GEL LINERS: My favorite! These are probably the hardest kind to use. This type of liner requires a brush. You can purchase some gel liners that come with brushes or you can purchase one separately. My favorite type of gel liner is Mac’s Fluidline gel liners ($15), but if you prefer to spend a little less money try the Loreal HIP gel liners ($9) which comes with a mini angled brush to get you started. Gel liners provide the smoothest application and longest powerstay of any other type. Put this baby on in the morning, and you won’t have to re-apply at all.
Pros: ultra smooth application, extremely long lasting, creates thin lines with precision, can use used as a base for eyeshadows or to line waterlines and lower lashlines.
Cons: Requires practice, and a good angled brush for application.
….so, the prize goes to Gel Liners!
That’s it folks! I hope I was able to provide some insight to an essential item in every girl’s makeup bag. Don’t be afraid to branch out and try something new!
MAC blacktrack fluidline & Loreal HIP cream liner in black and brown.
