Eyeliner has been a staple in makeup routines for thousands of years, with its origins dating back to ancient civilizations. From the dramatic, bold lines of ancient Egypt to the subtle, winged flicks of the modern day, eyeliner has undergone a fascinating evolution. And how it has become an essential part of contemporary makeup practices. We’ll also provide tutorials and tips on achieving various eyeliner styles to help you master this timeless beauty technique.
Origins of Eyeliner
Ancient Egypt
Kohl was made from a mixture of lead, copper, ash, and burnt almonds. The Egyptians believed that applying kohl to their eyes not only enhanced their beauty but also protected them from the evil eye and the harsh sun.
Example: Cleopatra, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, was known for her dramatic, heavily-lined eyes, which became a symbol of her power and allure.
Middle East and South Asia
Eyeliner also has deep roots in the Middle East and South Asia, where it is known as “kajal” or “surma.” Women in these regions have used kajal for centuries to define and enhance their eyes and for its supposed medicinal properties.
Tip: Traditional kajal is often made with natural ingredients such as sandalwood, castor oil, and almond oil, which are believed to soothe and cool the eyes.
Eyeliner in the 20th Century
1920s and 1930s
The early 20th Century saw a rise in the popularity of eyeliner, particularly during the 1920s and 1930s. The silent film era brought about a dramatic, theatrical makeup style, with actresses like Clara Bow and Louise Brooks popularizing the dark, smudgy eyeliner look.
Example: The “smoky eye” trend, which involves blending dark eyeshadow and eyeliner for a sultry, dramatic effect, has its origins in the makeup styles of the 1920s and 1930s.
1950s and 1960s
In the 1950s and 1960s, eyeliner became more refined and precise. The iconic “cat-eye” or “winged” eyeliner look, which involves extending the liner beyond the outer corner of the eye for a lifted, feline effect, became popular during this time.
Tip: To achieve the perfect cat-eye, start by drawing a thin line along your lash line, then use a small brush or angled eyeliner brush to extend the line upwards .
Modern Eyeliner Styles and Techniques
Tightlining
Tightlining is a technique that involves applying eyeliner along the waterline (the inner rim of the eye) to create a subtle, natural-looking definition. This method is perfect for those who want to enhance their eyes without a dramatic, visible line.
Example: To tightline your eyes, use a waterproof pencil eyeliner and gently lift your upper eyelid to expose the waterline. Carefully apply the liner along the inner rim, getting as close to the lash line as possible.
Winged Eyeliner
Winged eyeliner, also known as the cat-eye, is a classic, timeless style that has remained popular for decades. This look involves extending the eyeliner beyond the outer corner of the eye, creating a lifted, elongated effect.
Tip: When creating a winged eyeliner look, start with a thin line along the lash line and gradually thicken it as you move outwards. Use a small brush or angled eyeliner brush to extend the line upwards and outwards, following the natural curve of your lower lash line.
Graphic Eyeliner
In recent years, the use of graphic eyeliners has become a trendy, creative way to express oneself through makeup. This style involves creating bold, artistic designs with eyeliner, such as geometric shapes, double lines, or even intricate, lace-like patterns.
Example: To create a simple graphic eyeliner look, start with a classic winged eyeliner, then use a fine-tipped eyeliner brush to draw a second line above the first, connecting them at the outer corner of the eye.
Smudged Eyeliner
Smudged eyeliner is a softer, more relaxed alternative to precise, sharp lines. This technique involves applying eyeliner along the lash line and then gently blending it out with a small brush or cotton swab for a diffused, smoky effect.
Tip: To achieve a smudged eyeliner look, use a creamy, blendable pencil eyeliner or a small brush dipped in a dark eyeshadow. Apply the product along your lash line, then use a small blending brush or your fingertip to smudge and blend the line gently.
Eyeliner for Different Eye Shapes
Hooded Eyes
Hooded eyes have a fold of skin that droops over the crease, partially obscuring the eyelid. When applying eyeliner to hooded eyes, it’s essential to create a thin, precise line along the lash line to avoid the liner getting lost in the fold.
Tip: To make your eyes appear more open and lifted, extend the eyeliner slightly beyond the outer corner of the eye, following the natural upward curve of your lower lash line.
Round Eyes
Round eyes are characterized by a circular shape, with the white of the eye visible both above and below the iris. To elongate and define round eyes, focus on creating a thicker line along the outer half of the eye, tapering it towards the inner corner.
Example: Apply eyeliner along the entire lash line, starting with a thin line at the inner corner and gradually thickening it as you move outwards. Extend the line slightly beyond the outer corner of the eye for a lifted, cat-eye effect.
Downturned Eyes
Downturned eyes have a slight downward tilt at the outer corners, which can make them appear sad or tired. To counteract this effect, focus on creating an upward-sweeping line that extends beyond the outer corner of the eye.
Tip: When applying eyeliner to downturned eyes, start with a thin line at the inner corner and gradually thicken it as you move outwards. At the outer corner, extend the line upwards and slightly beyond the eye, following the natural curve of your lower lash line.
Conclusion
Eyeliner has come a long way from its ancient origins, evolving into a versatile, expressive tool in modern makeup practices. By understanding the history and cultural significance of eyeliner, as well as mastering various techniques and styles, you can harness the power of this timeless beauty staple to enhance and define your eyes. So, grab your favourite eyeliner and start experimenting with these tips and examples to find the perfect look for you!