The cost of makeup can add up when you consider all of the different facets that go into getting our full face applied. If you follow the trends, you’ll find that your wallet is lighter, but the quality of your makeup isn’t necessarily better. To help save some money and still look great, we checked out the best drugstore eyeliners, so you can get more bang for your buck. Whether you like pencil, liquid, or gel, we’ve got great options to help you define your eyes and make them pop.
Before we get to our suggestions for the best eyeliners, here are some tips to make those eyes sparkle.
1. Prep Your Eyes
- Start with a clean, hydrated eyelid. Use a lightweight eye cream to prevent dryness and help makeup glide on smoothly.
- Apply a primer to ensure the eyeliner stays put and doesn’t smudge into fine lines.
2. Choose the Right Eyeliner
- Use soft pencils or gel liners instead of liquid if your eyelids are less firm, as these are more forgiving and easier to smudge for a softer look.
- Opt for a dark brown, navy, or charcoal eyeliner for a defined but softer effect compared to black.
- For sparkle, pick an eyeliner with a subtle shimmer (not chunky glitter) or add a touch of glittery eyeshadow on top of your liner for a classy glow.
3. Apply Strategically
Avoid thick or overly dramatic wings; a small flick at the outer corner can give a gentle lift. If your hands are unsteady, rest your elbow on a flat surface and your pinky on your cheek for better control.
Upper Lash Line: Keep the line thin and close to the lashes to create definition without overwhelming the eye. Use short, gentle strokes to build the line.
Tightlining: Apply eyeliner to the waterline of your upper lashes to make them look fuller without adding bulk.
Lower Lash Line: Skip or use a softer color to avoid closing in the eye. If you want definition, smudge a little liner or eyeshadow along the outer third of the lower lash line.
4. Blend for Softness
- Use a smudger brush or the smudging tool on your eyeliner to soften the line. Harsh lines can be less flattering on mature eyes.
5. Add a Sparkle Highlight
- Dab a tiny bit of a light, shimmery shadow or eyeliner in the inner corners of your eyes to brighten them up.
- Add a subtle shimmer just above the liner on your eyelid to give a fresh, open-eyed look.
6. Finish with Mascara
- Use a lengthening mascara to open up your eyes. Avoid overly heavy formulas that might weigh down your lashes.
Best Eyeliner for Mature Women
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.
Best Liquid Liners
Pencil Liners
Gel and Cream Liners
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