Mastering eyeliner can feel like a magic trick—especially when your eye shape doesn’t cooperate with trendy tutorials. Whether you have hooded lids, monolids, or almond eyes, the right technique can accentuate your natural beauty. Here’s how to nail eyeliner for your unique eye shape, plus pro tips to avoid smudges and uneven lines!
Hooded Eyes: Focus on the Wing
Hooded lids hide the crease, making traditional liner disappear when eyes are open.
✔ The fix:
- Draw wings with eyes open to ensure visibility.
- Use a thin line along the upper lash line, thickening it slightly at the outer corner.
- Try a batwing liner (a curved wing that connects to the crease).
💡 Pro Tip: Waterproof gel or liquid liner prevents transfer to the hooded area.
Monolids: Go Bold with Graphic Lines
Monolids lack a visible crease, giving you a canvas for creative looks.
✔ The fix:
- Thick, straight wings elongate the eye horizontally.
- Experiment with double wings or floating liner above the lash line.
- Use a smudge-proof formula (e.g., Stila Stay All Day Liquid Liner).
Almond Eyes: Classic Cat-Eye Perfection
Almond-shaped eyes are versatile—play with thick or thin lines.
✔ The fix:
- Follow your natural lash line, extending the wing slightly upward.
- Tightline the upper waterline for fuller lashes.
- For drama, pair with a smoked-out lower lash line.
Round Eyes: Create Length and Lift
Round eyes benefit from elongated shapes to balance their circular appearance.
✔ The fix:
- Extend wings outward (not upward) to stretch the eye.
- Keep the inner corner thin and gradually thicken toward the outer edge.
- Avoid lining the lower lash line fully—focus on the outer third.
Downturned Eyes: Lift with a Flick
Downturned eyes slope downward at the outer corners, creating a “sad” effect.
✔ The fix:
- Angle wings upward to counteract the natural droop.
- Keep the liner thin on the inner half, thickening it past the pupil.
- Highlight the inner corner to draw attention upward.
Upturned Eyes: Soften the Lift
Upturned eyes naturally tilt upward, so avoid over-exaggerating the wing.
✔ The fix:
- Balance with a subtle downward flick at the outer corner.
- Smudge liner slightly under the lower lash line for depth.
- Opt for softer pencil liners instead of harsh liquid lines.
Close-Set Eyes: Widen the Appearance
Close-set eyes need tricks to create the illusion of more space.
✔ The fix:
- Highlight the inner corner with a nude or white pencil.
- Extend the wing outward (not upward) to “pull” the eyes apart.
- Keep liner thin near the inner corner, thickening it toward the outer edge.
Deep-Set Eyes: Brighten and Define
Deep-set eyes sit farther back in the socket, often casting shadows.
✔ The fix:
- Avoid thick upper liner—it can make eyes look smaller.
- Tightline the upper waterline and add a thin line close to lashes.
- Use shimmery nude liner on the lower waterline to brighten.
Universal Tips for Flawless Application
- Prep lids: Use concealer or eyeshadow primer to prevent smudging.
- Start small: Build thickness gradually—you can always add more.
- Fix mistakes: Dip a q-tip in micellar water for precise cleanup.
Best Eyeliner Formulas for Every Style
- Liquid: Precision wings (NYX Epic Ink Liner).
- Gel: Smudge-proof control (Maybelline Eye Studio Gel Liner).
- Pencil: Soft, blendable lines (Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On).
Final Thoughts
Eyeliner is all about embracing your eye shape, not fighting it. Experiment with angles, thickness, and formulas to find what flatters you most. Our Tip: Practice with your eyes open and in natural light—it’s the secret to symmetry! With these tricks, you’ll master the art of liner in no time. 👁️✨
