Want to elevate your eye makeup game? The secret lies in mastering the art of eyeliner. When done right, it can create a stunning “lifted effect” that instantly adds depth, definition, and drama to your look. But when done wrong, it can have the opposite impact, dragging your eyes down or making them look smaller.
This guide will cover the ultimate eyeliner do’s and don’ts to help you achieve that flattering, lifted look. Whether you’re a makeup newbie or a seasoned pro, these tips will refine your technique and ensure picture-perfect results every time.
What is the “Lifted Effect” in Eyeliner?
The “lifted effect” centers around creating the illusion of upward-facing eyes, a trick often associated with youthful, awake, and sculpted features. By strategically placing eyeliner, you can draw attention upward, making your eyes appear bigger, elongated, and refreshed.
Professional makeup artists often use this technique to give their clients a sophisticated, snatched look without looking overdone. The good news? You don’t need to be a pro to nail this trend.
DO’s for a Lifted Eyeliner Look
If you want to achieve a flawless “lifted effect,” these tips are your new best friends:
1. DO Choose the Right Eyeliner Formula
Your eyeliner formula matters! Opt for long-wearing, waterproof eyeliners to avoid smudging and slipping throughout the day. Gel liners are excellent for precise control, while felt-tip pens and liquid liners work wonders for sharp wings.
Pro Tip: Use a pencil liner to create a soft guide before layering with liquid for more precision.
2. DO Focus on the Outer Corners
To create a lifted appearance, concentrate your eyeliner on the outer corners of your eyes. Applying it too close to the inner corners can make your eyes look smaller, so the goal is to draw attention outward and upward.
- Use a thin line on the inner half of your lash line, gradually thickening it as you move toward the wing.
- Flick the liner upward toward the tail end of your eyebrows to mimic an instant “lift.”
Pro Tip: Don’t extend the wing too far outward, as it may appear disconnected. Keep the wing short and sharp for a clean, modern effect.
3. DO Tightline Your Upper Waterline
Tightlining is a game-changer for a more lifted look. Applying eyeliner directly to your upper waterline fills in gaps between your lashes, creating a fuller and more lifted appearance without harsh lines.
Why This Works: Tightlining gives the illusion of a thicker lash line, which instantly defines your eyes and adds natural drama.
4. DO Use White or Nude Eyeliner on the Lower Waterline
Highlighting the lower waterline with a white or nude pencil gives your eyes a bright, wide-awake effect. This subtle touch lifts your overall look and can balance darker shades on the upper lash line.
5. DO Experiment With Wing Shapes
The classic cat-eye isn’t your only option! Play around with different wing styles to enhance your eye shape. A slightly straight flick can elongate hooded eyes, while a mini-flick at the top edge of your lashes adds a natural lift for rounder eye shapes.
Pro Tip for Beginners: Use tape or an eyeliner stencil to create a precise, symmetrical wing. Simply align it with the angle of your lower lashes and wing out.
6. DO Blend for a Softer Look
While sharp eyeliner is undeniably stunning, blending your winged liner can soften harsh lines and make the look more natural. Use a small, angled brush to gently diffuse the edges of your eyeliner, giving your eyes a dreamy gradient effect.
Perfect For: Everyday wearable looks or when you want a softer, smoky eye with a lifted effect.
DON’Ts to Avoid When Creating a Lifted Effect
While eyeliner mishaps are common, avoiding these mistakes will ensure your eyes stay looking lifted and flawless.
1. DON’T Drag Your Liner Downward
The fastest way to lose the lifted effect? Applying eyeliner that dips downward. A downward-angled wing (or an uneven line) can make your eyes appear droopy or tired. Always keep your angles high and upward!
2. DON’T Forget to Prep Your Lids
Skipping primer or setting powder is a big mistake if you want your eyeliner to stay in place. Oily lids cause smudging, which can ruin the lifted effect.
Pro Tip: Apply an eyeshadow primer followed by a light dusting of translucent powder to keep your eyeliner crisp all day.
3. DON’T Overline Your Inner Corners
While elongating your inner corners can look dramatic, too much product can create a messy, closed-off effect. Avoid extending the liner too far, and use a fine-tipped brush if you’re attempting a foxy inner flick.
4. DON’T Use Thick, Uneven Lines
Heavy or inconsistent eyeliner applications tend to overpower the natural shape of your eyes. If you’re struggling to create an even, flawless line, opt for small, intentional strokes instead of trying to draw one continuous line.
Quick Fix: Clean up uneven edges with a cotton swab dipped in micellar water or concealer.
5. DON’T Ignore Your Bottom Lashes
While the top lash line is the star of the show, completely ignoring your lower lashes can make the look feel unbalanced. Instead of dark eyeliner for the lower lash line, use a soft brown shade for subtle definition or stick to using a nude pencil on the waterline.
6. DON’T Forget to Match Your Wing to Your Eye Shape
Not all eyeliner techniques work for every eye shape! What looks fabulous on almond-shaped eyes may not have the same effect on monolids, hooded eyes, or round eyes. Take time to adjust your wing placement and angle to complement your natural eye structure.
If in doubt, start with a smaller wing and adjust until you find the perfect lift.
Pinning Down the Perfect “Lifted Effect”
Creating a flawless “lifted effect” with eyeliner takes a mix of technique, patience, and practice. By sticking to the do’s and steering clear of the don’ts, you can craft a look that enhances your eyes beautifully.
Don’t be afraid to switch up your style! Whether you’re going for bold wings or soft, blended gradients, the key is to make it work for you. After all, makeup is all about self-expression.
Do you have a favorite eyeliner hack or go-to product for creating a lifted look? We’d love to hear them! Drop a comment or tag us in your best lifted eyeliner looks on Instagram @BeautyLifted.
Happy lining!
