Eurgh, why is achieving the perfect flick using liquid eyeliners so damn hard?! One glides on obediently, while the other shoots off in an entirely different direction. It’s not the only obstacle. There’s also awkward smudges, uneven lines and impossible applicators to deal with. In fact, it might just be the most difficult makeup technique to perfect.
That being said, liner is the most popular beauty trend of 2021 (and it’s tipped to keep the crown into 2022). A round-up of TikTok’s 30 biggest beauty trends from the past year placed graphic liner in the top spot, followed by cat-eyes at number two, winged liner at number nine and a bunch of spin offs (such as the reverse cat-eye, glitter liner, batwing liner and double liner all making an appearance).
However, we have it on good authority that finding your perfect product match is just as – if not more – important than your technique. Even amongst our team we have those who are wedded to their felt-tips and will consider no other options.
What is the easiest liquid eyeliner to use?
I’ve tried every eyeliner going and maintain that Collection’s Fast Stroke pot and quill solution is the best (the lid is weighted to guide it instinctively along your lash line, while the nib is beautifully precise and rigid enough to stay put without splaying). Meanwhile, Bobbi Brown’s pro makeup artist, Amy Conway, recommends a gel formula if you’re just starting out. “It’s more solid and less smeary,” she says.
What brand of eyeliner is the best?
With countless liquid eyeliners to choose from, it can be tricky to find the best one for you. To make it a little easier, we have picked out some of our all-time favourites – whether you want a statement graphic line or a defined feline flick. Our advice? have a play around until you find your partner in crime.
Once you’ve mastered your technique (with a little help from our editor-approved guide, if needed), why not experiment with the latest eyeliner trends? We’re off to give kitten liner a spin.
And if it all goes horribly wrong (don’t worry, we’ve all been there), these micellar waters will sort you out – they’re able to remove even the most stubborn waterproof formulas in a single sweep.