Different Types of Eyeliners And How To Choose The Best One

Types of Eyeliner



Gel eyeliner vs pen eyeliner, liquid eyeliner or pencil eyeliner – which is better and most importantly, which one should you choose? Simply put, it depends on your eye shape and your precision level. With so many different types of eyeliners available, it can get overwhelming to pick the one that suits you the best. This guide is here to ease things for you and help you make informed decisions. From eyeliner types and textures to application, this blog covers everything about eyeliners along with selecting the right one for your eyes.

 

Quick Guide To Types Of Eyeliner

  • Pencil Eyeliner: Creamy, beginner-friendly liner that glides smoothly.
  • Liquid Eyeliner: Precision liner perfect for bold, sharp, and dramatic eye looks.
  • Pen Eyeliner: Easy-to-use liner with a fine tip for controlled, smudge-proof definition.
  • Gel Eyeliner: Versatile, long-lasting liner ideal for soft, smudged, or smokey eyes.

 

What Are The Different Types Of Eyeliner?

Liquid, gel, pencil, or pen eyeliner – what are the different types of eyeliner, and which is right for you? Let’s find out!

1. What Is A Pencil Eyeliner?

Pencil eyeliner is probably one of the most commonly used eyeliner. If you have grown up outlining your eyes with kajal, you are ready to upgrade to pencil eyeliner. The only downside of the sharpen-able pencil is that you need to sharpen it every time if you want to get precise lines.

Benefits Of Using A Pencil Eyeliner

  • Creamy Formula: With a creamy formula, pencil eyeliners effortlessly glide on your lash line and waterline.
  • Easy-to-use: Pen eyeliners are beginner-friendly and easy to use.

2. What Is A Liquid Eyeliner?

Perfect for creating bold and dramatic looks, the liquid eyeliner gives you the most precision and helps you create well-defined thin lines. This type of eyeliner is often the first choice for a variety of different eyeliner looks like winged eyeliner, graphic eyeliner, cat eyes, Egyptian eyes, etc. Liquid eyeliners are tricky to master and you need a very steady hand when creating delicate strokes.

Benefits Of Using A Liquid Eyeliner

  • Quick Dry Formula: This type of eyeliner tends to dry quickly, so avoid using it for soft, smokey looks that need a smudged eyeliner effect.
  • Precise Application: The brush tip liquid eyeliner is great for drawing ultra-precise lines that will last long. Most liquid eyeliners are available in either a matte or a glossy effect, so choose one that complements your overall makeup look.

3. What Is A Pen Eyeliner?

If you want the look of a liquid eyeliner with the ease of a pencil eyeliner, the sketch pen eyeliner is just what you need!

Benefits Of Using A Pen Eyeliner

  • Ultra-precise Application: The fine tip of the pen eyeliner makes it easy to draw precise lines while the shape of a sketch pen makes it easy to use, even for absolute beginners.
  • Smudge-proof Formula: This type of eyeliner usually packs smear-proof and smudge-proof formula that makes for an error-free application.

4. Gel Eyeliner

Available in cute little pots with angled brushes, gel eyeliners might look intimidating at first but are fun to use once you learn to apply them correctly with very steady hands. If you like the look of soft and smudged lines that are not as precise as the ones you would get with a liquid eyeliner, the gel eyeliner is the right choice for you.

Benefits Of Using A Gel Eyeliner

 

  • Gel Formula: Gel eyeliners are a makeup lover's best friend as they are not only used to define the lash line but are also great for applying all over the lid as an eyeshadow base or smudging in the outer corner for a smokey eye makeup look.
  • Smudge-proof: This type of eyeliner contains a high wax content and are waterproof and budge-proof. By varying the thickness and angle of your eyeliner brush, you can create different eyeliner styles with the gel eyeliner.
  • Quick Dry Formula: Gel liners dry out quickly, helps avoid messy application, and helps save time. Be cautious to shut the lids tightly after every use to maximise the product usage.

 

Now that you know about all types of eyeliner, let’s move on to learn how to apply eyeliner based on your eye shape.

How To Choose The Right Eyeliner For Your Eye Shape?

Here’s a breakdown of how different types of eyeliner complement different eye shapes:

  • Round Eyes

    A winged eyeliner rightfully makes your eyes appear bigger and more elongated.

  • Almond Eyes

    Congratulations! You have the most versatile eye shape for eyeliner. From cat-eye, and dramatic smoky eye, to a minimalist tightline, almond eyes can rock it with ease.

  • Hooded Eyes

    Master the art to play along with the shape of the eyelid, rather than against it. Focus on creating definition at the outer corners of your eyes, gently lifting them with transfer-proof, smudge-proof products. Don't apply thick lines straight onto the eyelid, as this will make the hood look more visible.

  • Monolids

    Ideal for creating graphic eyeliner, colorful liners, and dramatic cat eyes to stand out. You can also try smoky eyes to add dimension and depth.

 

Not sure how these eyeliner styles will look on you? Experiment with different types of eyeliner formulations and styles with Virtual Try-On tool. This advanced tool lets you virtually try different eye makeup, face makeup, and lip makeup products from the comfort of your home without spending a penny.

 

Now that you know about all types of eyeliners and how to choose eyeliner style to accentuate your natural eye shape, go ahead, and pick the right tool to get the desired eye look. Remember, practice is the key to achieving a stunning eyeliner look! Don't be afraid to experiment with different eyeliner styles, colors, and techniques until you discover what flatters your eyes the most.

Frequently Asked Questions On Types Of Eyeliner

Pencil eyeliner is the best choice for beginners because it is easy to control and apply. Its soft, creamy texture helps create smooth, mistake-friendly lines without requiring advanced techniques.

Waterproof liquid eyeliner is the longest-lasting option. It is designed to resist smudging, fading, and moisture, helping eye makeup stay intact throughout the day.

Waterproof liquid or gel eyeliners work best for oily eyelids as they resist smudging and fading. Setting eyeliner with a light eyeshadow can further improve longevity.

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