Step 1: Prime Your Eyes

Before applying your eyeliner, it’s essential to prime your eyelids. This helps prevent smudging and ensures your winged look lasts all day. If you don't have an eye primer, a light dusting of translucent powder will also work to absorb any excess oils.

Step 2: Start with the Wing

For both gel and liquid eyeliner, it’s best to start with the wing to ensure symmetry. To do this, imagine a line extending from the outer corner of your eye toward the end of your brow. This will be your guide for creating the angle of the wing.

Gel Eyeliner:

• Dip your angled brush into the gel liner, making sure not to pick up too much product.
• Lightly draw a line outward from the outer corner of your eye, following the imagined angle. Keep the line thin to start—you can always thicken it later.

Liquid Eyeliner:

• Using your liquid liner, start at the outer corner of your eye and draw a flick outward. For beginners, use small strokes for more control, gradually building up the line.

Connect the Wing to Your Lash Line

Once the wing is in place, it’s time to connect it to your lash line for that sleek, continuous look.

Gel Eyeliner:

• Using your angled brush, carefully drag the liner from the tip of your wing back toward your upper lash line. Create a smooth line across the lashes, gradually tapering it toward the inner corner of your eye.

Liquid Eyeliner:

• With a steady hand, use the pen or brush to connect the wing to your lash line, following the curve of your eye. Keep the line thinner near the inner corner and thicker as you move outward.

Step 4: Fill in the Wing

Now that the outline is complete, you can fill in the wing for a bold, defined finish.

Gel Eyeliner:

• Use the brush to fill in the space between the wing and your lash line, ensuring everything is even and solid.

Liquid Eyeliner:

• Simply use the tip of your liquid liner to fill in the wing, making sure it’s smooth and opaque.

Step 5: Clean Up Mistakes

Even the pros make mistakes! If your line isn’t as sharp as you’d like or you’ve smudged the wing, use a Q-tip dipped in makeup remover or a small brush with concealer to clean up and sharpen the edges.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once your winged eyeliner is complete, finish off the look with a few coats of mascara to open up your eyes. You can also line your lower lash line for added drama if desired.

Whether you’re using gel or liquid eyeliner, following these steps will help you achieve sharp, symmetrical wings that will make your eyes pop. Give it a try and see which formula works best for you!