Previously, we covered the basics of how to perform the technique of Tightlining. Tightlining is the simple method of applying eyeliner on the roots of the lashes and even on the underside of the lid to give the illusion of larger eyes and thicker lashes. You can check out this post to find out more about Tightlining.
Today, I share in this post more tips on Tightlining that I picked up along the path of makeup discovery, and think will benefit all of us!
Tip #1: Don’t Tug at the Lids!
Some people like to lift the eyelid to make the waterline more visible during application. I prefer not touching the eyelid at all, to prevent premature wrinkles and sagging. I do all I can to slow down the effects of time man!
Instead, what I do is simply tilt my head back and that will reveal more than enough of the base and underside of the lashes.
But if you still cannot see the underside of the lid, then use a brush and gently lift the lid.
This is especially helpful for when you approach the inner one-third of the eye.
Tip #2: Buy a Creamy Pencil Eyeliner
Forget about those cheapo eyeliners on sale from Chameleon or SASA or LA Girl. Well, unless proven otherwise. I’ve bought and tried many of them and they made my eyes go through torment from their dry and unworkable texture. I bet I can buy like 5 Urban Decay 24/7 Eye Pencils with all the money spent on poor quality pencil eyeliners.
I believe that what does not work on the upper lashline will certainly NOT work on the waterline. You want a super creamy yet non-greasy eye liner pencil that will glide on smoothly on the waterline.
It doesn’t have to be expensive. L’Oreal HIP Chrome Eyeliner in Black Shock is a great and inexpensive alternative to the much coveted Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Zero. Try Prestige Total Intensity EyeLiner too!
Get L’Oreal HIP Chrome Eyeliner in Black Shock here
Get Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Zero here
Tip #3: Do It Before Mascara
Some people tightline after mascara, but I find it a real hassle to be extremely careful not to accidentally draw ON the eyelashes and make them stick together.
So just finish up the eyelining and tightlining, then proceed to mascara application.
See, once mascara is on, the lashes are no longer soft, and they get in the way of the eyeliner.
Tip #4: Slow, Steady, and Short
Work slowly and carefully, especially if you’re not familiar with tightlining. Being careful onset beats cleaning up mess anytime!
Use short strokes – there is no need for a perfect line like the one on your upper lashline. As long as the waterline is coated with product, it’s good enough.
Tip #5: Open your eyes!
I don’t know why and how they do it, but I’ve watched plenty of tightlining tutorials filmed by Caucasians tightlining with their eyes CLOSED. It’s scary even to watch! They do it so effortlessly and it turns out fine too. Maybe it’s something to do with the natural contour of the Caucasian eye. I’m not sure.
But unless the closed eyes method works marvellously for you, I suggest that you keep your eyes OPEN during application.
It took many shots to get this shot! I was so scared when I took them because it really didn’t feel very good to have something jabbing my eye (the underside of the eyelid, not the eyeball!!) and yet force my eyes to close on the pencil eyeliner. But this is exactly how some people do it. =S
And there we have it!
Tips for easy peasy tightlining! Good luck!
