Pencil, kohl, gel, felt tip… Each eyeliner has its own qualities and effect. Which one is your perfect fit? Let’s have a look!
Pencil
A must-have! Most often dry, it gives you perfect, precise control without any mess. The best part? You can shade it with your fingertip or a cotton bud for a smoky effect – perfect for a night out or a bolder “day look”.
Some pencil eyeliners are also available in waterproof formulas. Generally long-lasting, these pencils are richer than their cousins and can be applied to the entire lash line, but not inside the eye where it’s too moist for them to hold.
Kohl
Used in North Africa and the Middle East for millenias, kohl was originally a mix of lead and animal fat, used to protect the eyes against the elements. Today, the formula in your beauty bag is probably a little different (a little!). It’s still very resistant, though – enough to hold on the inner part of the eye without fading. Its intense pigmentation and “smudgy” side will give you a fiery look, guaranteed!
Gel
When you first begin using gels, you quickly learn they take a bit of practice. The first golden rule? Use a very precise or angled brush. This will give you better control when using the product. With gel, you get a very intense line that’s extremely opaque and won’t move a hair all day long. Once you’ve mastered it, let your imagination run free for a cat eye look or a more daring line.
FELT TIP
With its fine and soft tip, this eyeliner is the best tool for an ultra-precise, almost graphic result. The trick to keep the line neat and symmetrical: trace a small ascending line at the outer corner of the eye, then complete it starting in the inner corner and staying close to the root of your eyelashes.
A little reminder: avoid rubbing a felt tip line if you want it to remain flawless all day long.