Eyeliner has the power to transform your appearance significantly – it can define your eyes, add a playful lift, change their shape, accentuate their color, and even make your lashes appear thicker… offering endless possibilities! However, to effectively harness the powerful potential of eyeliner, it’s crucial that you become familiar with the different types of formulas available.
Each eyeliner formula comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. For instance, certain formulas are a breeze to use from the get-go, while others demand a bit of practice before you’re fully comfortable. Some are ideal for creating bold, dramatic eye looks, while others are perfect for something softer and more natural-looking.
Now, with a dazzling array of eyeliner options at your fingertips, I get it—it can feel downright overwhelming for many women. How do you zero in on your perfect match? Well, Beauties, here’s the scoop: to snag the right one, you’ve got to take some time to dive into each option and find out precisely what each brings to the table!
So, today, we’re taking the plunge and exploring the four main types of eyeliner, breaking down their PROs & CONs in detail. And for those of you craving some serious eyeliner inspo, get ready! I’ll be showcasing a plethora of eyeliner looks and styles, from the classics to the latest trends. Let’s begin!!
A Deep Dive Into Types Of Eyeliner Formulas
First things first, when you’re trying to decide between various types of eyeliner, it’s important to consider your own personal preferences.
- What’s your makeup vibe today? Going for soft and subtle, or daring to be bold?
- How easy do you want the application to be?
- Are you looking for something to use quickly, or do you have a little more time?
- How long do you want it to last (how budge-proof do you want it)?
Try to keep these things in mind when you’re choosing your liner so that you can find the one that best suits your needs.
The different types of eyeliner we’ll be covering today are:
- Pencil Eyeliner
- Cream Eyeliner
- Gel Eyeliner
- Liquid Eyeliner
Pencil Eyeliner
Let’s start with pencil eyeliner, shall we? Pencil eyeliner: the OG of eyeliners and likely your first love in the makeup game. If you’re like most of us, this was your gateway into the fabulous world of eye-defining magic.
A pencil liner is perfect for makeup newbies and will typically give you the most natural look (particularly if you use a brown one). You can use a pencil to create a clean line (thick or thin) along your lash line, or for an even softer look, opt to smudge it out a bit with a Q-tip or makeup brush.
Pencils are also excellent for tightlining, which is when you line your lashes at the root to make them appear thicker, for applying to your waterline (go with a waterproof one for this), or giving your lower lash line more definition. Yet, their somewhat stiff texture might not be the best fit for eyeliner styles that demand pinpoint precision.
Pencil Eyeliner PROS:
- Convenient, no brush needed, and easiest to use
- It can create a line or easily smudged for a softer or subtle look.
- Generally, the best option for everyday wear
- Pencils can be applied quickly and are available in a range of colors, so you can find an ideal match for your mood, eye color, or occasion.
- One of the most forgiving options, if you’re prone to mistakes
Pencil Eyeliner CONS:
- If you want to create sharp, defined, & precise lines, they require frequent sharpening.
- While it is possible to create a winged liner look or cat-eye, it won’t give you the same crisp, sharp lines that a gel & brush or liquid eyeliner will provide.
- Won’t hold up as long as a liquid liner.
PRO TIP: I’ll also add that if you prefer something convenient and ideal for on-the-go, without having to constantly sharpen, you can opt for a mechanical liner pencil. Of course, one thing to keep in mind with this type of eyeliner is that if you twist it too much, it may break off.
Who Are Pencils Best For:
- Makeup Beginners
- Those who need something quick or require application on the go!
- Gals who are looking for the best & safest option to line their waterlines.
Cream Eyeliner
Next up is cream eyeliner. Cream eyeliners come in small pots and require a brush to apply. However, you can also find them in pencil form. These liners have a soft, creamy texture that offers smooth application as they glide on quite easily. Of course, they also blend just as easily, which makes them ideal for those who want to create the perfect smoky eye with little effort.
All in all, they offer great versatility, as you can use them for softer, natural, or bold and dramatic looks! Last but not least, their formula makes them gentle on the delicate skin near your eyes since they won’t won’t tug on the lid.
Cream Eyeliner PROS:
- If you want to create an intense smokey eye, it’s a definite winner! The texture and consistency make it superb for smudging.
- Offers a softer, more natural look than a gel.
- Allows you to create more precise lines than a pencil (if you use it with an angled or fine-tipped makeup brush) but not as precise as gel or liquid.
- You can find them available in many vibrant, colorful options as well as in shimmers.
Cream Eyeliner CONS:
- It does require a brush if you select one in a pot.
- Depending on the look you’re going for, you may find it smudges and smears too much. If that’s the case, consider trying a gel liner instead or set it with a powder eyeshadow in a matching shade.
- Not as long-wearing or lasting as gels and liquids.
Who Are Cream Eyeliners Best For:
- Makeup newbies and up!
- Anyone who has a passion for sultry smokey-eye looks!
- Gals who want more precision than a pencil but find liquids and gels a touch intimidating.
Gel Eyeliner
Gel eyeliner is another unique product that, like creams, comes in the form of a pencil or a pot. Gels typically possess a thicker consistency than creams, which makes them easier to work with if you’re looking for precise lines. They’re perfect for crafting those dramatic, show-stopping looks—think winged liner or a sultry cat-eye.
But wait, there’s more! You can also use them for building a smudged winged liner look, for smokey eyes, or go for softer looks (that aren’t as harsh and angular) if that’s more your vibe. Gel liners boast a creamy texture that glides on like a dream, making them a gentle, eye-friendly choice. They also have excellent staying power, making them superb for long wear and resistant to fading.
Gel Eyeliner PROS:
- Long-lasting, long-wearing, and generally budge-proof
- The thick consistency means you only need a little product for full coverage.
- Easier to create precise lines than with a pencil or cream liner
- Gels are not as messy as liquid liners tend to be.
- Like creams, they typically won’t pull or tug on the delicate skin on your lid.
Gel Eyeliner CONS:
- Those that come in a pot will require a brush.
- Dries quickly, so you must work fast (especially if you’re going for a smudged liner look)
- You can’t leave the pot open for long periods because the product will dry out.
- You’ll probably need some practice to get the hang of using it with a brush.
Who Are Gel Eyeliners Best For:
- Beginners & intermediates
- Those who want more precision and staying power than a pencil or cream but aren’t ready to take the leap with liquids.
- Gals who want flexibility with their eyeliner looks.
PRO TIP: What about gel pencils? Offering a better glide than a traditional pencil and easier application than using a gel pot with a brush, gel pencils are basically a hybrid of these two eyeliner types. These are also fantastic for the waterline.
Liquid Eyeliner
Last but not least, we have liquid eyeliner. The queen of all liners! If you’ve ever leafed through a beauty magazine or watched makeup tutorials on YouTube, you’ve likely seen all kinds of crazy and creative liner styles created with liquid liner.
You’ll find various types of liquid eyeliner on the market. Sometimes, it will come in a tube, and other times, it may look like a pen with a calligraphy-like brush (or felt tip) to help you create those super sharp lines everyone loves.
Brush tips excel in creating ultra-fine lines and detailed looks that require precision, thanks to their flexibility. They cater well to those with steady hands, offering the freedom to go from extremely thin to bold lines. On the other hand, felt tips (kind of like a marker) are often preferred for their ease of use and control, making them more forgiving and suitable for those with less steady hands.
Unlike some of the other types of eyeliner, liquid liner is extremely long-wearing and won’t smudge or fade. However, it can be a touch more difficult to master and often requires practice.
Liquid Eyeliner PROS:
- The tip provides unmatched precision and ensures crisp, sharp lines.
- Offers high-intensity color and pigmentation
- Its quick-drying formula minimizes the risk of smudging.
- It’s ideal for those looking to make a statement with their makeup, thanks to its ability to create defined, dramatic looks (winged eyeliner, graphic eyeliner, cat-eye, etc.).
- Excellent staying power, especially for individuals with oily eyelids, as many liquid liners are formulated to be waterproof or water-resistant.
Liquid Eyeliner CONS:
- Requires a steady hand
- Considered one of the most challenging types of eyeliner to master for beginners.
- Not suitable for creating smudged or soft eyeliner looks due to its quick-drying nature and precision applicator.
- Applying it to the waterline is NOT recommended, as it will lead to irritation or discomfort.
- Can be difficult to remove without a good makeup remover, potentially leading to pulling or tugging on the delicate skin around the eyes.
- The formula’s quick-drying aspect, while a pro for longevity, means mistakes must be corrected swiftly to prevent them from setting.
Who Are Liquid Eyeliners Best For:
- Makeup enthusiasts and those who are confident in their eyeliner skills.
- Individuals who are looking for intense, bold looks that make a statement.
- Those with oily eyelids or who need long-wearing eyeliners.
PRO TIP: If you’re new to liquid liners and struggling with creating precise lines, try using small dots or dashes instead of trying to draw one continuous line. Then, connect the dots (or dashes) and fill in any gaps – this will help you achieve a clean, even line. You can also use a small piece of tape as a guide or invest in an eyeliner stencil to assist with creating symmetrical lines.
From Classic To Bold: Exploring 13 Different Types Of Eyeliner Styles
Eyeliner is a versatile makeup tool that allows you to create a vast range of looks, from classic and simple to bold and dramatic. Here are thirteen popular types of eyeliner styles you can try with your preferred liner!
1) Basic/Simple Eyeliner:
For a classic look that effortlessly enhances the natural beauty of your eyes, simply line along the top lash line from the inner corner all the way to the outer edge. This eyeliner technique will accentuate the shape of your eyes beautifully.
When applying your liner, try to keep the line thin at the eye’s inner corner, then gradually increase in thickness as it extends towards the outer edge.
PRO TIP: I generally recommend using a pencil, cream, or gel for this type of eyeliner look. Pencil and cream will give you the most natural effect.
2) Kitten Flick:
Kitten eyeliner is an elegant yet super subtle revamp of the signature winged liner style. Simply line the top lash line starting from the inner corner and stopping at the outer corner, flicking the line ever so slightly upwards. I like to think of it as a teeny-tiny winged liner look.
3) Winged Eyeliner:
Consider it the little black dress of the eye makeup world—a timeless tradition and a staple in every makeup enthusiast’s arsenal. This style is particularly effective in elongating and lifting the eye, giving it a flirtatious touch. You’ll want to line the top lash line as you would for a basic/simple eyeliner style; however, at the outer corner of your eye, the liner extends outwards and at an angle to create a wing. The angle and length of the wing can be adjusted to achieve different looks, from subtle to bold.
PRO TIP: It’s easiest to start with the wing and then line the top lash line second. Additionally, I recommend either a gel liner with a brush or a liquid liner for this type of look.
4) Cat-Eye Eyeliner:
Unfortunately, many people confuse this type of eyeliner with a winged liner. However, unlike a winged liner, the cat eye also includes lining the lower lash line. The liner on your lower lash line needs to sweep upwards at an angle, connecting with the wing.
5) Tightlining Eyeliner:
Tightlining is where you apply eyeliner to the inner rim of your upper lash line. Applying it here creates the illusion of fuller, denser lashes at the roots.
6) Waterline Eyeliner:
Alternatively, waterline eyeliner refers to applying liner along the inner rim of one’s bottom lash line. This technique will add more definition to the eyes. However, it’s not recommended for those with small eyes, mature eyes, sensitive eyes, or individuals who wear contact lenses.
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7) Smudged Eyeliner:
A seductive yet softly focused stare can be achieved with a smudged eyeliner look. This effortless style is perfect for a night out when you want a hint of drama without the commitment a sharp line brings. Use a pencil, cream, or gel liner to create a line along the top and bottom lash lines, then use a brush to gently smudge the liner for a softer effect.
8) Colored Eyeliner:
Who said eyeliners have to be black or brown? Try experimenting with different colors to add a pop of fun and vibrance to your look. You can also opt for a shade that complements your eye color.
Related: Eyeliners For Blue Eyes: 15 Eye-Catching Must-Haves
9) Double Winged Eyeliner:
A bold and daring look that involves creating two wings, one on the top lash line and one on the bottom. This creates a dramatic and eye-catching effect that’s perfect for bringing some serious feline sass!
10) Reverse Wing Eyeliner:
This inventive twist on the classic winged liner turns conventional beauty norms on their heads. It’s similar to a winged liner, only flipped. Line your lower lash line from the inner to the outer corner, then extend from the outer corner upwards in a sweep. Some prefer extending the liner from the inner corners as well. Eyeliner is generally also applied to the lower waterline. However, this was not done in the image above.
11) Fox Eye:
This eyeliner trend has been popularized by celebrities and influencers. It involves elongating the eye shape for a sultry, foxy look. Essentially, you want to create an outer wing but also extend your liner slightly downward and angled from the inner corners. Depending on your eye shape, you may find that the center portion of your upper lash line needs to be thinner than in the above photo.
12) Floating Crease Eyeliner:
This is an artistic and edgy look that involves drawing a line along the crease of the eye. If you’re a fan of drama, you can take this eye makeup to the next level by opting for a bright and vibrant color.
PRO TIP: Don’t forget to prime your eyelids beforehand to prevent creasing and smudging throughout the day.
Now, another twist on the floating crease liner style would be to combine it with a classic wing to create a bold, graphic liner effect (more on that next) that will surely make a statement.
13) Graphic Eyeliner:
If you’re feeling extra creative, try experimenting with graphic eyeliner looks. Think geometric shapes, negative space, cut-outs, or even vibrant colors – the possibilities are endless!
This is one of those types of eyeliner styles that requires precision and practice, so start with simpler designs before attempting more complex ones. Once you get the hang of it, don’t be afraid to let your creativity shine and create something new that is totally you!
PRO TIP: Gels and liquids are your best bet for creating graphic liner looks.
The Eyeliner Wrap-Up!
We’ve traced the lines from pencil to cream and from gel to liquid, exploring the vast array of formulas, ladies! Additionally, we’ve ventured into the world of different types of eyeliner styles, from classic to bold and everything in between. With this knowledge in hand, you can now confidently choose your preferred kind of liner and experiment with various styles to find the perfect look for any occasion.
Remember, ladies, practice always makes perfect – so keep honing those eyeliner skills! Now, go ahead and rock those lined eyes with confidence! And who knows, maybe you’ll even discover your own unique eyeliner style along the way. Happy lining, Beauties!
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