Looking to enhance your eye-makeup game? Tightlining is a powerful technique that can transform your look by adding depth and definition to your eyes without the appearance of heavy makeup. In this guide, we’ll explore what tightlining is, how it differs from traditional eyeliner application, the benefits for various eye shapes and sizes, the best eyeliners for the job, and expert tips to ensure your tightlining stays flawless all day.
Featured Experts
- Wayne Goss is an expert makeup artist
- Sheena Zadeh is the founder of Kosas Cosmetics
- Jess Berrios is a celebrity makeup artist
What Is Tightlining, and How Does It Differ from Traditional Eyeliner Application?
Tightlining is a precise eyeliner technique that involves placing eyeliner at the base of the lash line near the waterline. Unlike traditional eyeliner, which is applied above the lash line, tightlining creates a more natural, fuller lash appearance. “Tightlining creates continuity between your iris and lash line,” says Sheena Zedeh, founder of Kosas Cosmetics. “It makes the lash line look thicker by using the real estate of the upper waterline, and it also prevents there being a break between the colored part of your eye and the lash line.”
The Benefits of Tightlining for Different Eye Shapes and Sizes
Tightlining offers several benefits, especially for those with specific eye shapes and sizes. Celebrity makeup artist Jess Berrios highlights that the liner technique is ideal for hooded eyes. “It thickens the look of the base of the lashes framing the eye and enhancing the look of mascara and eye shape,” she says.
Makeup artist Wayne Goss also emphasizes the versatility of the technique for various eye shapes, noting, “The main benefit of tightlining is that it gives the illusion of thicker and blacker eyelashes. It doesn’t lose eyelid space, and for those with small eyelid spaces, this is a really big deal.”
Zadeh adds that tightlining makes the colored part of the eye look larger and draws the viewer’s attention, creating strong contrast and definition around the eyes. “It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference in an overall eye look. Even just tightlining alone can have a beautiful impact,” she explains.
Expert Tips for Making Liner Last
If you’ve tried the technique but noticed smudging by midday, you’re not alone. Ensuring that tightlining lasts throughout the day requires specific techniques and products. Berrios advises working the eyeliner into the under area of the upper lash line and avoiding too much product on the waterline. “Use waterproof products and allow them to set with minimal blinking,” Berrios adds.
Which Eyeliners Are Best for Tightlining?
The choice of eyeliner is crucial for effective tightlining. Berrios recommends gel liners with a small pointed liner brush, such as the Anastasia Waterproof Gel Crème Liner ($18), or waterproof pen liners like the Diorshow On Stage Liner ($35). “I love a gel liner with a small pointed liner brush, or a waterproof pen liner,” she suggests.
Zadeh highlights the importance of using a gel eyeliner in a waterproof formula to prevent transfer and ensure easy application. The brand-new Kosas’ Soulgazer Intensifying Gel Eyeliner ($24) as an ideal option, she says, noting its hyaluronic acid infusion, which makes it apply smoothly and prevents irritation. “Soulgazer is both a gel pencil and waterproof, so it’s perfect for tightlining. The formula is really unique in that it’s infused with hyaluronic acid so it applies easily and evenly, and won’t tug or transfer,” she explains.
