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Choosing the eyeliner that you want to use to create that perfect look is going to be about choosing the shade that’s just right, but also the format of the eyeliner that you prefer most. These days, there are several options that you can choose from. Each one is going to work a little differently, so how do you know what to rely on? Here’s the breakdown of what’s “best.”

Gel eyeliner

This comes in a pot and uses a brush to go on. It’s entirely different from pencil or pen eyeliner but is also a really special kind of eyeliner in that you don’t instantly need to be an expert at it. The perks of this kind include:

Easy to build a soft or hard line: This goes on a bit softer than other options, so you can essentially do a “rough draft” with your first sweep, and then go over it again to get the sharper line that you’re going for. This is great if you struggle to get right down to the lash line, in particular.

Rely on an angled brush: You can choose your brush, so if you have a preferred angled brush that you like, you can use it to help you create the line. It’s great for those that love the idea of reusing the same brush over and over, too, since we all tend to have that one favorite that we go to every time. It can also be a comfortable choice if you are someone who is new to pencil types.

Great for beginners: Since the edges of this kind of eyeliner are intended to be soft, it’s great when going for a more subtle and organic look. This naturally hides any wobbles or mistakes so that you can get it right each time.

Liquid eyeliner

This is sold in a small bottle with either felt tip or brush tip, depending. It comes in several shades, but most of them of dark brown or black. The tapered ends make them great for getting right to the waterline. The main advantages of this version are:

Sharp and clean lines: For those that want that streak as crisp as possible, this is it. It goes on with one swoop and then dries exactly how you see it. It’s great for creating that dramatic look, too.

Don’t need to fix throughout the day: Perfect for when you are trying to get through the day without a need for reapplication, this is your smudge-proof and fade-proof choice that is going to be just right!

Best for the smooth and seamless design: No rough marks or fading lines, here. Just smooth, seamless, and crisp lines for that truly perfect design.

Pencil eyeliner

The classic option is a pencil that you have to literally sharpen to get the point. It goes on like a classic pencil line and comes in no shortage of colors. This is the kind that most will start with because it’s thought to be the most affordable. Some of the main pros of this type of eyeliner are below.

Classic for a reason: The reason this has been around for so long is that it gives you the best control over the actual application. It’s great for when you are looking to essentially sketch it out and then fill it in.

More color and effect variation: There’s every hue under the sun, so you can essentially create whatever effect you want, including blending different colors together for that controlled design.

Best for those who like to do their waterline: Since liquids and gels can be painful in the eye, these are best for that sensitive waterline so that you can keep your eye looking great, but still safe.

Which is the winner?

As you might be able to guess, determining the winning option for this particular hunt is going to be about figuring out what features you consider to be the most important. Many will enjoy the control of the gel but may end up switching to the liquid when they need that crisp and sharp line in one swoop. Others will start and end their search with a classic pencil. The goal is to find what works best for your look, feel, and patience level!

Choosing your eyeliner type is going to be as personal and as important as choosing the shade that you rely on. When sorting out just what your options are, consider giving all of them a try to see just what is going to feel the most comfortable for you! You may be surprised by just what you end up with!

SOURCES

https://shesaid.com/this-is-the-difference-between-liquid-gel-and-pen-eyeliner/

https://www.extrabux.com/en/guide/5378823

https://www.dermstore.com/blog/liquid-eyeliner-vs-pencil-eyeliner/