Oh darling, when it comes to eyeliner, the rules change as we age like fine wine. We’ve all tried a wing or two, but there are techniques best left to the young and daring. Pull up a chair, and let this hairstylist guide you through the maze of eyeliner no-nos for older eyes. Let’s skip the raccoon eyes and embrace the beauty of wisdom.
1. Thick Black Lines
Honey, if your eyeliner resembles a road map, it’s time to rethink. Thick lines can overshadow your natural allure and create a harsh look. Instead, opt for a softer, more subtle line to highlight elegance.
2. Heavy Lower Liner
Ever feel like your eyes are drooping like wilting flowers with heavy lower liner? It weighs your gaze down. Swap it for a neutral shade to open up those beautiful peepers.
3. Winged Cat Eye
Oh, the classic cat eye—charming in theory, tricky in practice. For older eyes, this can look more batty than catty. A slight upward flick is just enough to add flair without overdoing it.
4. Glitter Liner
Sparkles have their time and place, but on older eyes, they can bring out lines better left unseen. Choose matte for a more sophisticated look that flatters your natural beauty.
5. Deep Waterline
The waterline is like the soul’s doorway; keep it inviting. Dark liners here can make eyes look smaller and more tired. Try a beige liner to brighten and widen.
6. Perfect Symmetry
Chasing perfect symmetry? You’ll end up with mismatched eyes. Embrace the natural asymmetry for character and charm. Eyeliner isn’t meant to be a math problem!
7. Bold Neon Shades
Neon might scream festival fun, but it can clash with the mature canvas of your eyes. Swap neon for rich earth tones that complement your wisdom and elegance.
8. Unblended Lines
Think of your eyelids as a blank canvas. Harsh, unblended lines can make your eyes look tired. A soft, smudgy line works wonders for a gentle enhancement.
9. Colored Bottom Liner
Feeling colorful? Bright lower liner can be jarring. Instead, focus color on the upper lid for a harmonious look that enhances rather than detracts.
10. Overdrawn Inner Corners
The inner corners are sacred ground. Overdrawing here can create a closed-off gaze. A little highlight on the inner corners opens eyes beautifully.
11. Ignoring Lash Line
Ah, the floating liner effect—unintentional, I’m sure. Keep it close to the lashes for a look that’s naturally captivating.
12. Skipping Primer
Primer is your new best friend; it keeps everything in place. Skipping it leads to a sad, smudgy mess by lunch. Take the time for a smooth, lasting look.
13. Straight Across Liner
Straight-across lines can create a droopy, tired look. Aim for a slight lift at the outer edges to keep things lively and engaging.
14. Overuse of Liquid Liner
Liquid liner is like a sharp pencil—one slip and oops! It can be harsh on older eyes. Try a gel or pencil liner for a softer finish.
15. Ignoring Eye Shape
One-size-fits-all doesn’t apply here. Understanding your unique eye shape is key to flattering liner application. Remember, it’s about enhancing, not covering.
16. Shimmer in Crease
Adding shimmer to the crease highlights lines you’d rather keep secret. Matte finishes provide the smooth, flattering look that says ‘hello’ to eyes, not wrinkles.
17. Overly Extended Wings
Wings heading to the next county? Keep them in check. Extended wings can look clownish; a subtle flick is all you need for style without the drama.
18. Ignoring Brow Bone
The brow bone is your framing device; don’t ignore it. Proper liner placement should complement, not compete with, your natural bone structure.
19. Using Only Black
Black may be classic, but it can be stark. Experiment with browns and grays for a softer, more flattering approach that whispers elegance.
20. Skipping Setting Powder
Set it and forget it! Skipping setting powder can lead to smudging. A light dusting keeps your eyeliner looking fresh all day long. Who doesn’t want that?
21. Uneven Wings
Winging it isn’t always the way to go. Uneven wings can turn your day into a balancing act. Keep a steady hand and practice your flick!
22. Applying on Dry Skin
Dry skin and eyeliner mix like oil and water. Ensure your skin is prepped and moisturized to prevent patchy, unattractive lines. Hydration is key!
23. Ignoring Color Theory
Colors have feelings too! Ignoring color theory can lead to mismatched looks that confuse rather than complement. Choose shades that enhance your natural beauty.
24. Skipping Under-eye Concealer
Skip the concealer, and you’ll look like last night’s party never ended. Under-eye concealer is magic for a fresh, wide-awake appearance.
25. Harsh Inner Lines
Harsh lines on the inner lids can make you seem unapproachable. Softer lines here invite conversation and enhance your natural allure.
26. Layering Multiple Types
Less is more, especially here. Layering eyeliners can create a cluttered appearance. Stick to one type for a cleaner, more effective look.
27. Relying on Just Pencil
Pencil is trusty, but variety is the spice of life. Explore gels and liquids for different textures and finishes. Spice up your routine!