Lesson 15 of 36
Eyeliner basics: tightlining
Tightlining doesn't make your eyes bigger—it fills the gaps between your lashes to make your lash line look naturally denser and sharper. With the right mirror angle and a light touch, you can do it safely without poking yourself.
1·2·3Watch · 16 sec
All 3 steps on one face
The chart shows where each step goes; the video shows how the face changes. Step-by-step details are below.
JJ is an AI-generated model. Makeup changes are illustrated by AI.
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1Eyes
Position the mirror low
Place a mirror below your chin and look down at a 45-degree angle. Gently lift your upper eyelid with a finger to reveal the lash line and upper waterline.
Tabletop mirror2Eyes
Dot from the center with pencil
Hold a soft gel pencil liner at a slight angle and start above the pupil. Gently dot between the roots of your lashes rather than dragging a continuous line.
Gel pencil eyeliner (dark brown or black)3Eyes
Connect to inner and outer corners
After filling the middle, connect the dots toward the inner and outer corners. Stop right where your natural eyelashes end—do not extend an outer wing.
Gel pencil eyeliner
lightbulbTips
- Use a cotton swab to gently dab away excess moisture along the waterline before applying eyeliner to prevent smudging.
- If your eyes are sensitive, dull the sharp tip of your pencil slightly on the back of your hand before applying.
errorCommon mistake
Drawing thick lines on top of the eyelid instead of strictly between the lash roots makes eyes look heavy and leads to easy smudging.
health_and_safetyKeep the pencil tip strictly between the roots of your lashes; do not touch the wet surface of the eyeball or inner rim. Try any new product on your inner arm first. If redness, itching or irritation appears, stop using it and consult a dermatologist. Keep eye products out of the eyes.
The face chart is an AI-generated illustration showing where each step goes — not a photo of a real result.