Different Types of Eyeliners and How to Choose the Best One

Just when you think you have learned everything about eyeliners, there is a new type of eyeliner launched in the market. If your internet search history is filled with questions like what is a gel eyeliner or pen eyeliner, or how to apply liquid eyeliner, we are here with the answers you have been looking for! Read on to learn about all types of eyeliners, how to choose eyeliner styles, and more! 

Liquid vs. Gel vs. Pencil vs. Felt-tip Eyeliners

Liquid, gel, pencil, or pen eyeliner – what are the different types of eyeliner, and which is right for you? Let’s find out! 

1. Pencil Eyeliner

Pencil eyeliner is probably one of the most commonly used eyeliner. If you have grown up outlining your eyes with kajal, you are ready to upgrade to pencil eyeliner. The only downside of the sharpen-able pencil is that you need to sharpen it every time if you want to get precise lines.  

 

• Creamy Formula: With a creamy formula, pencil eyeliners effortlessly glide on your lash line and waterline.  

 

• Easy-to-use: Pen eyeliners are beginner-friendly and easy to use.  

 

Our recommendation - Maybelline Tattoo Studio Gel Eyeliner Pencil  

2. Liquid Eyeliner

Perfect for creating bold and dramatic looks, the liquid eyeliner gives you the most precision and helps you create well-defined thin lines. This type of eyeliner is often the first choice for a variety of different eyeliner looks like winged eyeliner, graphic eyeliner, cat eyes, Egyptian eyes, etc. Liquid eyeliners are tricky to master and you need a very steady hand when creating delicate strokes.  

 

• Quick Dry Formula: This type of eyeliner tends to dry quickly, so avoid using it for soft, smokey looks that need a smudged eyeliner effect. 

 

• Precise Application: The brush tip liquid eyeliner is great for drawing ultra-precise lines that will last long. Most liquid eyeliners are available in either a matte or a glossy effect, so choose one that complements your overall makeup look.  

 

Our recommendation - Maybelline Hyper Glossy Liquid Liner  

3. Pen Eyeliner

If you want the look of a liquid eyeliner with the ease of a pencil eyeliner, the sketch pen eyeliner is just what you need!  

 

• Ultra-precise Application: The fine tip of the pen eyeliner makes it easy to draw precise lines while the shape of a sketch pen makes it easy to use, even for absolute beginners. 

 

• Smudge-proof Formula: This type of eyeliner usually packs smear-proof and smudge-proof formula that makes for an error-free application. 

 

Our recommendation - Maybelline Colossal Liner, Maybelline New York Line Tattoo Liner High Impact Liner 

4. Gel Eyeliner

Available in cute little pots with angled brushes, gel eyeliners might look intimidating at first but are fun to use once you learn to apply them correctly with very steady hands. If you like the look of soft and smudged lines that are not as precise as the ones you would get with a liquid eyeliner, the gel eyeliner is the right choice for you. 

 

• Gel Formula: Gel eyeliners are a makeup lover's best friend as they are not only used to define the lash line but are also great for applying all over the lid as an eyeshadow base or smudging in the outer corner for a smokey eye makeup look.  

 

• Smudge-proof: This type of eyeliner contains a high wax content and are waterproof and budge-proof. By varying the thickness and angle of your eyeliner brush, you can create different eyeliner styles with the gel eyeliner. 

 

• Quick Dry Formula: Gel liners dry out quickly, helps avoid messy application, and helps save time. Be cautious to shut the lids tightly after every use to maximise the product usage. 

 

Our recommendation - Maybelline Gel Eyeliner

 

Now that you know about all types of eyeliner, let’s move on to learn how to apply eyeliner based on your eye shape. 

How to Choose the Right Eyeliner for Your Eye Shape?

Here’s a breakdown of how different types of eyeliner complement different eye shapes: 

 

Round Eyes: A winged eyeliner rightfully makes your eyes appear bigger and more elongated. 

 

Almond Eyes: Congratulations! You have the most versatile eye shape for eyeliner. From cat-eye, and dramatic smoky eye, to a minimalist tightline, almond eyes can rock it with ease. 

 

Hooded Eyes: Master the art to play along with the shape of the eyelid, rather than against it. Focus on creating definition at the outer corners of your eyes, gently lifting them with transfer-proof, smudge-proof products. Don't apply thick lines straight onto the eyelid, as this will make the hood look more visible. 

 

Monolids: Ideal for creating graphic eyeliner, colorful liners, and dramatic cat eyes to stand out. You can also try smoky eyes to add dimension and depth. 

 

Not sure how these eyeliner styles will look on you? Experiment with different types of eyeliner formulations and styles with Maybelline Virtual Try-On tool. This advanced tool lets you virtually try different eye makeup, face makeup, and lip makeup products from the comfort of your home without spending a penny. 

 

Now that you know about all types of eyeliners and how to choose eyeliner style to accentuate your natural eye shape, go ahead, and pick the right tool to get the desired eye look. Remember, practice is the key to achieving a stunning eyeliner look! Don't be afraid to experiment with different eyeliner styles, colors, and techniques until you discover what flatters your eyes the most.