Graphic eyeliner, also referred to as negative space eyeliner, has taken the makeup world by storm with its modern and dramatic flair. Building upon the popularity of traditional winged eyeliner, this trend adds an extra layer of sophistication with sharp lines that create a distinct, geometric shape. Whether you’re looking for a bold statement piece or a subtle enhancement to your everyday look, graphic eyeliner has something for everyone.
With a range of design options available, from double lines and dots to angles and abstract patterns, there’s no shortage of creative possibilities. However, mastering the application of graphic eyeliner can be challenging, especially for those new to makeup. To help you achieve flawless results without the frustration, we’ll share some valuable tips and tricks to get you started.
Choose the Right Formula
When it comes to applying graphic eyeliner, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The type of liner you choose ultimately depends on your personal preference and the desired look. You have three main options: powder, gel, or liquid eyeliners. Each has its own unique characteristics that can be used to achieve different effects.
Powder eyeliners are great for creating a soft, smudged finish that’s perfect for more subtle graphic liner looks.
The Laura Mercier Tightline Cake Eye Liner is a richly pigmented option that works well for this type of application.
Gel eyeliners, on the other hand, are ideal for creating bold, dramatic lines that require a high level of precision. They’re great for angled winged eyeliner looks and can help create thick lines with ease. The Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner is a long-lasting option that won’t smudge or run throughout the day.
Liquid eyeliners are often the best choice when you want to achieve precise lines and detailed designs. While they can be more challenging to use than other types of liner, they offer a level of control and precision that’s hard to match with other formulas. The Kat Von D Tattoo Liner is a great option for those who want a liquid eyeliner that will last all day without smudging or running.
Hold Your Skin
To achieve intricate and complex designs with graphic eyeliner, precision and control are essential. Before applying the eyeliner, it’s crucial to prepare your eyelids as a smooth canvas. A clever technique is to use one hand to gently pull up the skin of your upper eyelid towards your temple, using your index and middle fingertips just under your eyebrow. This simple trick helps keep the skin taut, allowing you to create crisp lines and avoid common mistakes while applying graphic eyeliner.
Use Dots and Dashes
When attempting to create intricate graphic eyeliner designs, it’s essential to abandon the idea of drawing a single, smooth stroke. Instead, opt for a more methodical approach by using dots and dashes to establish the outline of your design. Once the foundation is set, use thin lines to gradually build up the thickness of your liner until you achieve the desired level of opaqueness.
Q-Tips Are Your Friend
When you first start applying graphic liner, or even after some experience, things won’t always go according to plan. Imperfections are a natural part of the process, and it’s common to end up with uneven lines, smudges, and other mistakes that need to be corrected before leaving the house. To tackle these errors without ruining your entire design, try twisting the cotton tip of a Q-tip into a finer point.
Dampen this pointed end with a liquid makeup remover, then use it to gently loosen the problematic makeup. Once loosened, use the dry end of the Q-tip to carefully remove the excess makeup, preserving the rest of your design.
Don’t Forget a Primer
When it comes to graphic eyeliner, having the right preparation is crucial for a flawless application. Even if you don’t plan on applying eyeshadow with your liner look, using an eyeshadow primer on the area where you’ll be drawing your design is essential. Without it, the natural oils on your eyelid will cause your liner to run and smudge, resulting in a less-than-desirable outcome. Instead, opt for a trusty invisible eyeshadow primer like Urban Decay’s Eyeshadow Primer Potion in Original.
This will help your graphic eyeliner stay put and achieve that desired dramatic look. With the right tools and techniques, graphic eyeliner doesn’t have to be intimidating – you can master it with ease and confidence.
