When I try to do a cat-eye shape with my eyeliner, it turns out blotchy and uneven. Any tips?
Applying eyeliner well takes concentration and a relaxed hand. I recommend starting with a pencil liner to get the hang of it, and possibly graduating to a liquid liner when you feel more confident. Because there are many variations of the cat-eye look, ranging from sharp, thin and pointed to fat and supersmudgy, there are as many techniques. Here's my favorite with some variations:
For a traditional cat-eye look, use a sharp eyeliner pencil and dot along the root of the lashes, from inner to outer eye, following the natural curve precisely. Stop at the point where your pupil ends and begin to subtly slant upward, carrying out the line as far as you like. In most cases, about a quarter of an inch looks good. Try slightly more if you're going for more drama.
If you desire a fatter line, retrace your steps, only filling in a bit wider as you go.
If you feel like your hand is steady enough, try using a brush. I love using a bent-angle brush, which has a handle that bends in the middle, so when drawing on the lash line you have the perspective of a second party. It's an amazing little tool. And it's perfect for shadow or cream liner.
Evenly distribute shadow liner on your brush, press the shadow as you place it along your lash line, moving the brush in the same slanting upward path. This technique will give a more translucent finish.
Lastly, don't be intimidated by liquid eyeliners. Just look for ones with small, firm, preferably tiny padded points. And make sure when you test them, that not too much liquid comes out of the applicator.
Recommended Products:
Estée Lauder Eye Defining Pencil/Smudger
Water-resistant and long-lasting; you can adjust the tip by sharpening.
Price: $15
Available: Department stores, EstéeLauder.com, Gloss.com
Clinique Eye Defining Liquid Liner
Quick-drying gel eyeliner; the precision brush tip and velvety consistency make this a classic eyeliner.
Price: $13.50
Available: Department stores, Clinique.com, Gloss.com
M.A.C Liquid Liner
In my experience, this is the easiest liquid liner to apply. I love the felt tip, which allows for excellent placement and control.
Price: $15
Available: (800) 387-6707, M.A.C boutiques and counters, MACCosmetics.com, Gloss.com
BeneFit Get Bent Eyeliner Brush
An amazing little tool perfect for shadow or cream liner.
Price: $13
Available: Department stores, Sephora, Sephora.com
