Makeup can help enhance your best features and draw attention to your favorite attributes. One basic tool for many women is a simple eyeliner pencil. Eyeliners come in a variety of colors and formulas. Unfortunately, too much of a good thing can wreak havoc, especially when it comes to outlining your eyes.
Step 1
Choose the best color eyeliner for your skin tone and hair color. Selecting a soft pencil liner, match the shade to your eyelashes for a natural look. Only use black eyeliner if your eyelashes and brows are very dark brown or black. If your eyelashes are very blond and indiscernible, choose a shade that is slightly darker than the bases of your lashes. For women with pale skin, rich browns and charcoal grays can draw attention to your eyes, without making you look unnatural.
Step 2
Create a clean slate by cleansing your face prior to applying your makeup. Follow your normal cleansing routine with a cotton ball that contains a few drops of alcohol-free makeup remover formulated for your eye area. Apply gentle pressure when sweeping away any remaining traces of makeup or skin oils from the delicate skin around the eyes.
Step 3
Apply a light layer of foundation to your facial skin, feathering the edges around your eyes. Use a makeup sponge to blend the edges of your foundation. Dust the area over your eyelids with a light layer of translucent powder. This procedure will help set the color and absorb oils during the day, helping your makeup stay fresh.
Step 4
Apply your eyeliner to your upper eyelids using small dots, rather than continuous lines. Press the tip of your eyeliner pencil as close as possible to the base of your eyelashes, leaving behind a small dot. Fill in the area between the center of your pupil and the outside edge of your upper eyelid.
Step 5
Blend the dots with an eyeliner brush or sponge, running the tip of the tool against your eyelashes to avoid creating smears over your lids. Use one or two quick sweeps to smooth the dots together without removing them.
Step 6
Line your lower lids in the same manner, dotting the eyeliner under your lower lashes from the center or outer portion of your irises to the outside edge of your eyes. Gently blend the dots to create a smooth, smoky line directly under your lower lashes. Follow with eye shadow and mascara.
