Do You Put Eyeliner On Before Or After Eyeshadow

When it comes to applying makeup, the order in which we do things can make a big difference. One burning question that makeup enthusiasts often grapple with is whether to put eyeliner on before or after eyeshadow. The answer may surprise you, as it can vary depending on personal preference and desired effects.

However, there are a few key aspects to consider when deciding the order of application. First, let’s look at the history of these makeup techniques. Eyeliner dates back thousands of years, with ancient Egyptians known for using kohl to define their eyes. On the other hand, eyeshadow has a more recent origin, becoming widely popular in the 20th century. Today, both are essential elements in creating stunning eye looks.

Do You Put Eyeliner on Before or After Eyeshadow?

When it comes to applying makeup, there are many techniques and tips to consider. One common question that often arises is whether to put eyeliner on before or after eyeshadow. The order in which you apply these products can make a difference in the final look. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of putting eyeliner on before or after eyeshadow, as well as provide some helpful tips to achieve the perfect eye makeup application.

Eyeliner Before Eyeshadow

Applying eyeliner before eyeshadow is a popular method among makeup enthusiasts. This technique allows you to create a defined outline and structure for your eye look before adding color with eyeshadow. Here are a few advantages to consider when putting eyeliner on before eyeshadow:

• Enhances eye shape: By applying eyeliner first, you can emphasize and enhance the shape of your eyes. You can create a winged liner or a precise line along the lashes to define your eyes.
• Prevents smudging: Applying eyeliner first can help prevent smudging or smearing of the eyeshadow. The eyeliner acts as a barrier, keeping the eyeshadow in place and maintaining a clean look.
• Allows for eyeshadow blending: Starting with eyeliner allows you to have a smooth canvas for blending your eyeshadow colors. You can easily blend the eyeshadow into the eyeliner, creating a seamless transition between the two.

How to Apply Eyeliner Before Eyeshadow

If you decide to apply eyeliner before eyeshadow, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the desired look:

• Start with clean and primed eyelids. Apply an eyeshadow primer to help the eyeshadow adhere better.
• Choose your preferred eyeliner type, whether it’s a pencil, liquid, or gel liner.
• Draw a thin line as close to the lash line as possible. You can opt for a subtle line or a more dramatic winged liner.
• Once the eyeliner is applied, start applying your eyeshadow. Use a blending brush to blend the eyeshadow colors into the eyeliner, creating a seamless transition.
• Finish the look with mascara and any additional eye makeup products.

Eyeliner After Eyeshadow

An alternative approach is to apply eyeliner after applying eyeshadow. This method offers its own unique advantages and can create a different effect. Here are a few benefits of putting eyeliner on after eyeshadow:

• A softer look: Applying eyeliner after eyeshadow can result in a softer and more blended look. The eyeshadow acts as a base, and the eyeliner adds definition and emphasis to the eyes.
• Allows for more creativity: By applying eyeshadow first, you have the freedom to play with different colors and create intricate eye looks. Once you’re satisfied with the eyeshadow, you can then add the eyeliner to complete the look.
• Minimizes mistakes: Applying eyeliner after eyeshadow allows you to make corrections and fix any smudging or mistakes without disturbing the eyeshadow. This method can be useful for those who struggle with precise eyeliner application.

How to Apply Eyeliner After Eyeshadow

If you prefer to apply eyeliner after eyeshadow, here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Start by applying your desired eyeshadow colors. Use an eyeshadow brush to blend the colors seamlessly.
• Choose your preferred eyeliner type.
• With a steady hand, draw your eyeliner along the lash line. You can create a thin line for a subtle look or a more dramatic winged liner.
• Clean up any smudges or mistakes with a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover.
• Finish off the look with mascara and any additional eye makeup.

Factors to Consider

Ultimately, the choice of whether to put eyeliner on before or after eyeshadow depends on personal preference and the desired eye makeup look. Here are a few factors to consider when deciding:

• Eye shape: Consider your unique eye shape and how different eyeliner and eyeshadow techniques can enhance or complement your features.
• Eye color: Certain eyeliner and eyeshadow shades can make your eye color pop. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you.
• Preferred style: Think about whether you prefer a more defined and structured look or a softer, blended effect.
• Skill level: Consider your comfort and skill level with applying eyeliner. If you struggle with precision, applying eyeliner after eyeshadow may be a better option.

Conclusion

There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to whether you should put eyeliner on before or after eyeshadow. It ultimately depends on your personal preference, the desired eye makeup look, and the techniques that work best for you. Experiment with both methods to see which one allows you to achieve the desired effect. Whether you choose to apply eyeliner before eyeshadow or after, the most important thing is to have fun and feel confident in your makeup application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few commonly asked questions about applying eyeliner and eyeshadow:

1. Can I put eyeliner on before eyeshadow?

Yes, you can apply eyeliner before eyeshadow. In fact, many makeup artists suggest this order to create a more defined eyeliner look. By applying eyeliner first, you can create a guide for your eyeshadow application and ensure a precise and even line. After applying eyeliner, you can blend your eyeshadow over it to soften the edges and create a seamless transition between the liner and shadow.

However, if you prefer a more smoky or blended eyeshadow look, you may choose to apply your eyeshadow before eyeliner. This allows you to blend the shadows together and then apply eyeliner along the lash line to enhance the overall look. Ultimately, the order of application depends on your personal preference and the desired outcome.

2. Should eyeliner be applied after eyeshadow?

Yes, applying eyeliner after eyeshadow is a common technique used by many makeup enthusiasts. By applying eyeshadow first, you can create the desired eyeshadow look, whether it’s a natural or dramatic style. Once you’re satisfied with your eyeshadow, you can then apply eyeliner along the lash line to define the eyes and add further depth and dimension.

This method also allows you to blend the eyeliner with the eyeshadow, creating a seamless transition between the two. It’s important to use a fine-tip eyeliner brush or a precision pencil to ensure accuracy and control when applying the liner. Remember to start with thin lines and build up if you want a bolder look. Experiment with different techniques to find the one that works best for you.

3. Can I apply eyeliner on top of eyeshadow?

Absolutely! Applying eyeliner on top of eyeshadow can create a dramatic and bold look. This technique is often used for special occasions or when you want to make a statement with your eye makeup. To do this, start by applying your eyeshadow as desired, and then choose a complementary or contrasting eyeliner color to apply on top.

This method can add an extra pop of color or intensity to your eye makeup. Make sure to use an eyeliner brush or pencil that provides good color payoff and precision. Avoid applying too much pressure to prevent smudging or disrupting the eyeshadow underneath. With practice and experimentation, you can achieve stunning looks by layering eyeliner on top of eyeshadow.

4. What is the best order to apply eyeliner and eyeshadow?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question as it depends on your desired look and personal preferences. However, a common order that works for many is to apply eyeshadow first and then eyeliner.

By starting with eyeshadow, you can create a base and shape for your eye makeup. Once you’re satisfied with the eyeshadow blending and placement, you can then proceed to apply eyeliner along the lash line to define the eyes and complete the look. This method allows you to build up the intensity of the eye makeup gradually and ensure a cohesive overall result.

5. Can I skip the eyeliner and only use eyeshadow?

Absolutely! Eyeliner is not a mandatory step in every eye makeup look. If you prefer a more natural or soft eye look, you can skip the eyeliner and focus solely on your eyeshadow application. This approach can result in a more subtle and effortless look, especially for daytime or casual occasions.

Eyeshadow alone can still enhance your eyes and create beautiful depth and dimension. Experiment with different eyeshadow shades, textures, and techniques to find the ones that enhance your natural features and suit your personal style.

When it comes to applying makeup, the order in which you apply eyeliner and eyeshadow can make a difference in your overall look. For a polished and professional appearance, it is generally recommended to apply eyeliner after eyeshadow.

By applying eyeshadow first, you have a better base to work with and can create a smooth and blended effect. This allows the eyeliner to stand out more and adds depth to your eye makeup. Additionally, applying eyeliner after eyeshadow helps to prevent smudging and allows for easier corrections if mistakes are made.