How to Use Eyeshadow as Eyeliner for a Soft, Smoky Look

There are days when you wish for more vibrant color options and finishes in eyeliners. Well, your wish is granted! By how to use eyeshadow as eyeliner, you can unlock a world of vibrant looks. Whether you have run out of eyeliner, have old eyeshadow palettes stocked up, or have a favourite shade in mind that you’ve been dying to try, we’ll show you how to create some stunning eye makeup looks using an eyeshadow.  

Can You Use Eyeshadow As An Eyeliner

Absolutely! Applying eyeshadow as an eyeliner is a geinus trick for various reasons, like creating a softer look or giving you more options for vibrant and striking eye makeup looks. It’s perfect for creating soft, blended eye looks with minimal effort. Unlike traditional eyeliners, eyeshadow can help you get more color variety, making it easy to experiment with different shades and finishes. This technique is perfect for achieving a subtle, smokey effect or a bold, dramatic cut-crease look without the harsh lines of a pencil or liquid liner. It’s also a great option for beginners, as eyeshadow is more forgiving and easier to correct. So, dive right into these easy yet effective ways you can use eyeshadow as an eyeliner for all occasions.  

How To Use Eyeshadow As Eyeliner?

Step 1: Prime well

Before you use eyeshadow as an eyeliner, it’s important to prime your eyes well. Gently dab some primer onto your skin and cover your eye contour well. This will help you prep your skin and create a smooth canvas for the rest of your makeup. It will also help your makeup last throughout the day without smudging. You can choose from options such as dewy primer or matte primer, depending on your skin type.   

 

Our recommendation – Maybelline Fit Me Primer 

Step 2: Apply concealer

The next step in the ‘eyeshadow liner’ routine is to use a small amount of concealer or foundation under your eyes to even skin tone and cover dark circles and spots. Using concealer helps to banish the blemishes and highlight the eye area while allowing the eyeshadow to stand out. Make sure that you choose the right concealer shade and apply a shade or two lighter to create a brightening effect. You can now find your perfect concealer shade match on the Maybelline Foundation Finder in just a few clicks.   

 

Our recommendation – Maybelline Fit Me Concealer 

Step 3: Take an angled brush

Ditch the regular eye makeup brush and go for an angled brush as it will be much easier to use eyeshadow as eyeliner. An angled brush is made of a thin set of bristles positioned on a slant that allows you to apply makeup in precise lines, making it easier to create an eyeshadow liner. Make sure that the brush you’re using is clean so that there is no color transfer from the last time you used it. And since the brush will go very close to your eyes, we recommend using an unused brush to apply eyeshadow liner to prevent bacteria from getting into your eyes. Before you begin the application, dip the tip of the brush in water. Don’t make it wet but only slightly damp. Soaking the brush in water will cause the eyeshadow to run and make it difficult to apply.   

Step 4: Select your favourite shade

You have innumerable options when it comes to eyeshadow palettes. If you want a natural-looking eyeliner, then select neutral eyeshadow shades such as brown, black, grey, or white. And if you’re open to bright, funky colors, use shades such as orange, green, blue, pink, or any other color of your choice. You can also use shimmery eyeshadow shades such as golden, bronze, or silver to draw instant attention to your eyes. 

 

Our recommendations –  

City Mini Palette 

Maybelline Blushed Nudes 

Nudes Eyeshadow Palette 

Step 5: Draw the eyeshadow liner

It’s time to create the eyeshadow liner. Before you use eyeshadow as eyeliner, position the upper tip of the angled brush along your lash line. Start from the inner corner of your eyes and swipe the brush gently along the lash line up to the outside corner. Repeat this process a few times until you reach the desired color and consistency. For an accurate line, try to keep the brush as close to your lash line as possible and press the tip of the brush on your eyelids so that you draw the eyeshadow in place.   

Step 6: Allow to dry and lock with spray

Give the eyeshadow a few minutes to dry and set before you blink. This will prevent the color from getting smudged into your crease. Lastly, use the setting spray to lock your makeup and create a dewy, vibrant finish.   

Our recommendation - Maybelline Setting Spray  

Best Eyeshadow Shades for an Eyeliner Look

When using the eyeshadow as an eyeliner, try to pick shades that complement your face makeup and lip makeup too. Choose neutral or monochrome shades unless you want the eye makeup to be the centre of your look. 

 

• Classic Black & Brown - If you’re trying a smokey eye or a bold liner look, try these shades to create impact without harsh lines. 

 

• Deep Plum & Burgundy - If you’re trying to bring out your brown eyes and brows, try adding warmth with these shades. 

 

• Navy Blue & Teal - These are ideal for a subtle pop of color while maintaining balance. 

 

• Olive Green & Bronze - While applying eyeshadow as eyeliner, choose these shades to suit your warm Indian skin tones while adding depth and softness. 

 

• Shimmery Gold & Copper - Best for a glamorous, soft-liner effect, perfect for festive or night looks. 

Tools You Need for Perfect Application

While learning how to use eyeshadow as eyeliner, it’s crucial to use the right tools. Primers, makeup brushes, and setting sprays. Try to keep the following handy - 

 

• Angled Brush - These flat, angled brushes are perfect for precise application, creating sharp or smudged eyeliner effects. 

 

• Flat Definer Brush – This is often used for tightlining the lash line with eyeshadow. 

 

• Small Smudging Brush – If you’re going for smokey looks, try the smudging brush to soften the edges. 

 

Learn more about the different types of makeup brushes with Maybelline and carry the perfect tool for each look.