ALL EYES ARE ON THIS QUICK TRICK I
KATIE WRIGHT learns ‘tightlining’, the beauty technique for defined peepers
F BIGGER, more defined eyes are a priority for you, chances are you’re always on the hunt for the ultimate lengthening mascara or false lashes to give you the doe-eyed look you desire.
But did you know there’s a simple eyeliner trick that could make all the difference to your peepers – even if you usually struggle with eye pencils?
It’s called ‘tightlining’ and involves applying liner to your upper waterline, to make lashes look “fuller, darker and longer”, says Bobbi Brown pro make-up artist, Hollie Ellis.
“Tightlining is a super effective technique, where you line the upper water line of the eye to create a defined outline,” Hollie explains.
Sascha Jackson, Stila UK lead pro make-up artist, says the technique is used to create “the appearance of thicker lashes. It can be done on any eye shape, however it works particularly well on those who do not have much eyelid space, and find wearing eyeliner on the top eyelid tricky,” she adds.
What kind of eyeliner should be used for tightlining?
“I would suggest using a soft kohl or crayon eyeliner,” says Sascha. “Stila’s Smudge Stick
Waterproof Eyeliner is amazing for this technique. Use a black or deep rich brown colour for your top waterline, as these are the best options for faking thicker eyelashes.”
Hollie recommends a kohl pencil or gel liner: “They are much softer on the eyes and you want to always go for something either waterproof or long-wear.
“Try the Bobbi Brown Long Wear Gel Liner,” she suggests. “It offers the precision of liquid liner, with the ease of a gel-based formula, all with eight hours’ of waterproof and sweat and humidity-resistant wear.”
“The easiest way to apply this technique at home is by holding a mirror below your chin and looking down into the mirror,” Holli continues. “I like to do ‘dot to dot’ pressing motions, from the inner corner to the outer edge.
“Another good tip is, instead of going into the waterline, try and aim your product into the roots and in between the lashes. When you blink, it won’t transfer onto the bottom waterline.”
Sascha recommends lifting your eyelid to make it easier: “Gently place your finger on the eyelid and lift it up to reveal your top waterline, then run the eyeliner along the waterline, trying not to blink to avoid transfer.
“I suggest doing tightlining prior to mascara, in case you get watery eyes. Finally, apply the mascara to complete the look.”