Common Mistakes When Applying Eyelash Eyeliner and How to Fix Them

Eyeliner can bring your eyes to life. It makes your lashes look fuller, adds shape to your eyes, and pulls your whole makeup look together. But getting it right isn’t always easy. A shaky hand, smudged lines, or uneven wings can quickly ruin your efforts.

Don’t worry — you're not alone! Many people struggle with applying eyeliner. In this post, we’ll talk about some of the most common mistakes people make with eyelash eyeliner and how you can avoid them. Whether you’re just starting or want to improve your skills, these tips will help you nail that perfect lash line.

1. Using the Wrong Type of Eyeliner

The Mistake:

Using the wrong kind of eyeliner (like one that’s too creamy or smudges easily) can lead to messy results or irritation, especially if you’re trying to line close to your lashes.

How to Fix It:

Pick an eyeliner that’s made for the job. Waterproof gel liners or special pencils for lining work best. They last longer and are less likely to smudge.

Choose a product with a fine tip or an angled brush so you can reach between your lashes easily.

2. Pulling or Tugging at the Eyelid

The Mistake:

Stretching your eyelid while applying eyeliner might seem helpful, but once your skin bounces back, the line can look uneven or wavy.

How to Fix It:

Instead of pulling, try tilting your head back slightly and looking down into a mirror. This gives you a better angle without pulling your skin. Use small, short strokes instead of one long line.

Rest your elbow on a table to steady your hand and make it easier to draw.

3. Leaving a Gap Between Liner and Lashes

The Mistake:

If your eyeliner doesn’t sit right at the base of your lashes, it can leave a noticeable gap. This makes the eyes look smaller.

How to Fix It:

Try precise lining — gently press your eyeliner into the spaces between your lashes. This creates a fuller, more natural look.

Use a magnifying mirror and natural light to see better while applying.

4. Skipping Primer or Powder

The Mistake:

If you put eyeliner straight onto oily eyelids, it can smudge or fade quickly.

How to Fix It:

Start with an eyeshadow primer or a light layer of powder to absorb oil. This allows your eyeliner to stay in place all day.

5. Not Matching Eyeliner Style to Eye Shape

The Mistake:

Different eye shapes need different eyeliner styles. What looks great on someone else might not suit your eyes.

How to Fix It:

Match your eyeliner to your eye shape:

• Hooded eyes: Keep the line thin with a small flick.
  
  

• Round eyes: Add a little wing at the corners to lengthen them.
  
  

• Monolids: Start thin and build up slowly.
  
  

• Almond eyes: Most styles work, but a classic wing looks great.

6. Ignoring the Lower Lash Line

The Mistake:

Only lining the top lashes can look unfinished, but overdoing the lower lash line can make eyes seem smaller or tired.

How to Fix It:

Use a soft pencil to lightly line the outer part of your lower lash line. Smudge softly to provide a softer look.

7. Using Too Much Product

The Mistake:

Trying to draw a line in one go can lead to thick, messy lines that are hard to fix.

How to Fix It:

Hold a piece of cotton with micellar water nearby to fix small smudges without starting over.

Use micellar water and a precision cotton swab to clean up small mistakes without ruining your entire eye look.

8. Not Letting Eyeliner Dry Properly

The Mistake:

If you blink right after applying liquid eyeliner, it might transfer onto your eyelid or smudge.

How to Fix It:

Wait a few seconds before opening your eyes completely. To speed up the drying process, gently fan your eyes or apply a setting spray.

Lightly press a tissue on the liner to soak up any extra product without messing it up.

9. Using Old or Dry Eyeliner

The Mistake:

Old eyeliner doesn’t go on smoothly and may even irritate your eyes

How to Fix It:

Check your eyeliner’s texture and smell. If it’s dry or smells odd, it’s time to toss it. Replace liquid liners every 3–6 months

Store gel liners upside down to keep them from drying out. You can also warm them a bit with your fingers before using.

Conclusion: Master Your Eyeliner Game

Getting your eyelash eyeliner just right takes a little practice, but once you know what mistakes to avoid, it becomes a lot easier. Choose the right products, take your time, and find a style that suits your eye shape. Don’t worry about being perfect — makeup is all about having fun and expressing yourself!