Enchanting eyes

Use an eyeliner brush with powder because it gives better control and the ability to create a little or a lot of drama. Pencils tend to run on the skin and make it more difficult to get a smooth, clean line. Of course, if you are happy with a pencil, there is no need to change.

Line both the top and bottom lids when you really want the eyes to stand out. Extend the line from one corner of the eye to the other—never stop halfway.

Which eye liner you use is a matter of the look you want and what’s easier for you. Liquid, gel and felt-tip-type pen liners create strong, well-defined lines. Powdery pencil and fat crayon liners are better when you want a softer effect. 

Creamy ones create a strong line and can also be smudged into a smokier look. Many women find pencils easier to use than liquid, especially for everyday use when there is no time to fix mistakes.

Chilling pencil liners in the refrigerator for a few minutes before sharpening make them less breakable.

For creamy pencil, liquid, gel or pen, use the tip of the brush or point for the finest line, getting right at the base of the lashes. Angle the point for a heavier look.

For powdery pencil or crayon, begin either at the corner of your lid where the lashes begin or at the outer end of your lid. (The starting point is not that critical since you will be smudging the line.)

 Smudge liner just enough to blur the edge, pushing colour onto your lid and/or just towards the corners. Smudging can be done with the ring or little finger, a cotton swab or a sponge-tip shadow applicator. Don’t tug.

Lining lower lids should be done with a light hand and never directly on the rim of the lid. Generally, liquid liner is too hard looking on lower lids. Stick with one of the softer effects.