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Eyeliner
A liquid, powder, or pencil eyeliner can be used to highlight, define, and enhance the shape and color of an eye. Eyeliner may be applied to the upper lid, the lower lid, both lids, or variations along the two lids.
For example, lining only the upper lid and a corner of the bottom lid can give a widening effect, while leaving the lower lid bare can change eye shape altogether. Lining both upper and lower lids can either pop eye color, or actually cause the eye to appear smaller. Eyeliner can also be helpful in filling in the spaces left by sparse lashes.
Eyeliner Application Tools
The cosmetic tools used to apply eyeliner are generally a brush, a sponge-tipped wand, or a pencil. Sponge-tipped wands can help to keep powdered liner adhered more firmly to designated areas, while brushes can give a more subtle shading. Oftentimes, holding the edge of a tissue beneath the eye will help in collecting any fallen particles of powder eyeliner, keeping the cheekbone free of an unnatural dusting of color. Sponges and brushes can also be used to give a dramatic smoky look to eyeliner by lightly smudging the edges.
Eyeliner Pencils
Eyeliner pencils are the easiest form of eyeliner application, and can be used on both lids by applying directly to the skin surface. Pencils should be sharpened before each use to insure accuracy as well as to rid the tip of any bacteria that may have collected between uses.
Liquid Eyeliners
The most difficult eyeliner to apply is liquid liner. Liquid liner comes in a tube and can produce the most vivid lines, both thick and thin, yet necessitates a strong, firm hand for application. Liquid liner can also be softened by adding a layer of powdered liner on top with a brush or wand and then lightly blending. Beginning with pencils and powders and then moving onto liquid liners may be beneficial to practice application. Fingertips can also be used for liner application, but are only recommended for the upper eyelid as the pad of the finger is wider than most brush and pencil tips.
Purchasing Eyeliner
Generally, eyeliner comes in slightly varying shades of black and brown, but different colors are also available and can be fun for seasonal and occasional use. Take a trip to the local cosmetics counter and investigate the shades and types of liner available. Oftentimes, a sales associate will be able to provide suggestions and demonstrations of liner application. Buy a few different types and colors and experiment at home to find that perfect look for everything from an outdoor barbeque to an evening out on the town.
By Barbara Poelle
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