How To Tightline Eyes: A Step-By-Step Guide
Learn this simple method to achieve a defined look that will make heads turn wherever you go.
Angela Jackson is a Maryland board-certified cosmetologist with over 28 years of experience. She received her cosmetology education from Dudley Beauty College in Washington, DC. She has trained under various hair and makeup artists and served bridal and in-salon clients and worked on various photoshoots and branding events.
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Experience: 3 yearsEsha Saxena is a writer and journalist with over 3 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in media and mass communication from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and firmly believes that makeup is nothing less than art.
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Experience: 2.5 yearsShatabdi is an associate editor and an alumnus of Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of the world of literature and expression. She has worked with various organizations and websites operating in different industries, ranging from education to lifestyle, showing her adaptability and drive to learn.
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Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience crafting short-form content for the beauty, fashion, and lifestyle niches. She has a triple majors bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science, and Geography from IIS University and a master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.
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If you’re new to the world of makeup and cosmetics, you might be wondering what tightlining is and why it is all the rage right now. Don’t worry, we have got you covered. We will tell you all about it and also teach you how to tightline your eyes!
Tightlining is a technique that includes lining the upper waterline of your eyes with an eyeliner to add more depth to them and make them appear larger and wider. In addition, by applying eyeliner straight into the lash line of your upper lashes, you can create the illusion of darker, thicker lashes. For decades, many experienced makeup artists have utilized this technique backstage, and it’s the key to nailing any eye makeup look. That is also the reason why it is called “invisible eyeliner.” Keep reading to learn how to conquer the technique of tightlining your eyes to give them a dramatic pop!
Keep In Mind- Prior Curling: Prior Curling Curling your eyes before tightlining gives you a proper idea of the lash line.
- Wider Eye Effect: Prior Curling Using a nude or white eye pencil for your lower lash line will make your eyes appear wider and brighter.
- Pick Your Shade: Prior Curling Experiment with different colors, and apply a thick liner close to your lash line to make your eyes pop.
In This Article
Why Should I Try Tightlining?
If you are someone with hooded eyes or eyes that tend to look droopy with that visible band of traditional eyeliner, tightlining is great for you. It is also an ideal technique for fans of low-maintenance looks who don’t like looking too made-up and only want subtle definition.
And if you love a good old smokey-eye, this trick is an incredible way to amp up the intensity of the look.
Here’s a simple tutorial to guide you to teach you how to apply gel eyeliner for tightlining, so you can achieve bigger, more twinkly, sultry eyes.
TriviaKey Takeaways
- Tightlining can give a subtle definition to your eyes for a minimalist look and make hooded eyes look less droopy.
- You can use a concealer to cover up dark circles before tightlining your upper and lower eyelashes.
- An angled eyeliner brush or an eye pencil should be used to apply the eyeliner between your lashes to make them appear fuller and lush.
- Curling your lashes at the end of the process and applying a coat of mascara on them will help you get a maximum tightline effect.
How To Tightline Your Eyes
What You Need
- Eye primer
- Angled eyeliner brush
- Black gel liner or black eyeshadow
- Eyelash curler
- Mascara
- Mirror
- Q-tip
Step By Step Tutorial With Pictures
Step 1: Prep Your Eyes
Before you begin, make sure your hands and face are squeaky clean. Apply a pea-sized amount of eye primer all over your lids. This will ensure your eyeliner stays in place, and your makeup does not fade through the day. Allow the primer to dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Cover Up Any Dark Circles
Choose your favorite concealer in a color that is no more than one or two shades lighter than your natural skin tone.
Dab the formula over your dark circles, allow it to sit for a moment (your body heat makes it easier to work with), and gently blend it out. You can use a bit of translucent powder to set the concealer.
Step 3: Tightline Your Upper Waterline
Dip a damp, angled eyeliner brush into a black eyeshadow or a gel liner. Make sure the bristles of your brush are coated with just enough pigment.
Hold your upper lid in place with the help of a Q-tip, raise your chin and look back a little. This will help you see what’s going on. Alternatively, you can look down in a mirror and push the shadow in between your lashes.
Hold your upper lid in place with the help of a Q-tip, raise your chin and look back a little. This will help you see what’s going on. Alternatively, you can look down in a mirror and push the shadow in between your lashes. Make sure there is ample lighting to help you apply the eyeliner with precision. If your hands get shaky, find a steady surface like your dressing table or bathroom counter to rest your elbows on, then apply the eyeliner with ease.
Hold your brush vertically for precision and wiggle its tip gently into the top waterline. However, if you are using a pencil eyeliner, do not forget to sharpen the pencil before application. This will help you get a smooth, precise line and remove any dirt or bacteria that may have settled on the pencil. Remember, your objective is to make your lashes appear fuller and lush – so, apply the liner anywhere you have lashes.
Note: Before choosing your eyeliner shade, consider your skin tone and eye color. Avoid using dark black on fair skin, instead go for brown or taupe to avoid a harsh look.
TriviaStep 4: Define Your Lower Lash Line
Repeat the previous step on your lower lash line, pushing the pigment underneath your lashes. Start from the outer corner and tightline only about half to two-thirds of your lash line. This tiny step helps your eyes look way bigger.
Step 5: Clean Up Any Mess
Use a Q-tip dipped in a water-based makeup remover to clean up any smudges or errors. Once your liner has set, curl your lashes and apply a generous coat of volumizing mascara. Lush lashes all the way!
Here’s what the end result looks like:
Rad, right?
Now that you understand how tightlining works and how easy it is to do, you are probably filled with awe. Yup, this super subtle tweak to your eye makeup can change everything! Whether you want to just try out this technique or fully commit to it, these tightlining tips are bound to come in handy for you.
5 Tips To Tightline Like A Pro
1. Choose Your Eyeliner Wisely
Tightlining involves applying eyeliner close to your eyeball. So, the best eyeliner for tightlining would be a waterproof formula. You can choose between a pencil eyeliner, a cream, or even a gel formula. For a more natural look, try to use a color that matches your eyelash color.
Note: Steer clear of liquid eyeliners. They aren’t meant for tightlining.
2. Focus On The Roots
Tightlining is all about your roots. A single flick will not do the job. Make sure you get the eyeliner as close to the roots of your lashes as possible and practice till you perfect it.
3. Gotta Curl Those Lashes
Ladies, tightlining is kind of incomplete without the curl. You need to curl your lashes well if you want to open up your eyes and achieve the maximum tightline effect. Apply a layer of mascara to complete your look.
4. Don’t Pick Anything But Waterproof Products
Always, always go for a waterproof eyeliner. This will ensure your tightline stays put throughout the day, no matter how watery your eyes get.
5. Take Care Of Your Lashes
Your lashes are precious. Tightlining can cause the lashes to fall out if you aren’t careful while applying eyeliner or curling your lashes. Apply some castor oil or a lash serum before you hit the bed to maintain the health of your lashes. Remember, the best makeup hacks are pointless without your beauty care routine.
Infographic: Steps To Tightline Your Eyes Like An Expert
Applying an eyeliner or mascara is the minimum every woman does before leaving for work. However, there are times when you don’t want to go all out and instead go for a natural but intense look. This is where tightlining enters the scene. It makes a massive difference by creating the illusion of larger eyes and longer lashes without going through the trouble of making bold winged or cat eye looks. While the technique is easy, it may take some practice to master it as it demands steady hands. To learn the process in detail, take a look at the infographic below!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Thank God, there is the technique of tightlining eyes. It not only adds more charm to our eye makeup but also allows our eyes to appear naturally bright and beautiful. So, when you do not feel enthusiastic about wearing makeup, just learn how to tightline your eyes from this article and add the glam to your eyes without much effort. But know that it requires practice. So, try and try till you achieve your desired look. Also, be gentle with your eyes while you are at it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I get eyeliner in my eye?
If you accidentally happen to get eyeliner in the eye, rinse it thoroughly with cold water to flush out the eyeliner. However, if the eye irritation persists, it’s best to consult your doctor immediately. If you are using a pencil eyeliner and it jabs your eye, please visit your doctor immediately to avoid any serious eye issues.
Can I tightline if I wear contact lenses?
Yes, however it’s best to keep the tightening to minimum. The idea is to keep the inner lid area, where oil glands open up makeup-free to avoid getting dry eyes, styes, or dirty lenses.
How do I safely remove my tightline eyeliner?
Use either a cotton pad dipped in some eye makeup remover or a Q-tip with some Vaseline on it to remove your tightline eyeliner.
Is tightlining bad for your eyes?
No, tightlining is not bad for your eyes. However, it’s a little risky if you are not careful with your eye pencil or brush, considering they can slip into your eye and cause damage. You only need to be careful, and it gets easier with practice.
What’s the difference between tightlining and waterlining?
Tightlining is applying eyeliner underneath the upper lash line, whereas waterlining involves applying eyeliner just above the lower lash line.
Illustration: How To Tightline Eyes - A Step-By-Step Guide For Tightlining
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
Learn how to tightline your eyes with this easy tutorial! Get the perfect eye makeup with this simple step-by-step guide. Hit the play button to know more!
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