What is gel eyeliner?

Different types and forms of eyeliner

Eyeliner is a makeup product that has been used for centuries to enhance the appearance of the eyes. There are several different types and forms of eyeliner available in the market, including pencil, liquid, and gel. However, in recent years, gel eyeliner has gained popularity among makeup enthusiasts due to its ease of use and versatility.

Gel eyeliner comes in a small pot and is applied with a brush. It gives a more intense and precise look to the eyes than pencil eyeliner. Unlike liquid eyeliner, it has a thicker texture that makes it easier to apply. It is also smudge-proof and long-lasting, making it perfect for events or occasions where you need your makeup to stay put for longer hours. Gel eyeliner can also be used to create different styles and looks such as thin or thick lines, wings, and cat eyes.

There are also different finishes available for gel eyeliners, including matte, satin, and shimmer. Matte gel eyeliners are perfect for a natural look and are suitable for daytime wear, whereas shimmer gel eyeliners can add a touch of glamour and sparkle to your evening makeup look.

Pencil eyeliner has a softer texture and is perfect for creating a smoky eye look
Liquid eyeliner has a thin brush applicator and is perfect for creating sharp and defined lines
Gel eyeliner has a thicker texture and is perfect for creating intense and precise lines

Pros of using gel eyeliner

Gel eyeliner has several advantages over other types of eyeliners. Here are some of the pros of using gel eyeliner:

Long-lasting: Gel eyeliner is smudge-proof and water-resistant, which makes it perfect for events or occasions where you need your makeup to stay put for longer hours.
Precision: The thick texture of gel eyeliner makes it easy to apply and gives more control and precision over the shape and thickness of the line.
Versatility: Gel eyeliner can be used to create different styles and looks such as thin or thick lines, wings, and cat eyes.
Intensity: Gel eyeliner has a more intense color and a matte finish, which gives a more dramatic look to the eyes.
Easy to use: Unlike liquid eyeliner, which can be challenging to apply, gel eyeliner is easy to use and does not require the same level of expertise.
Less wastage: Since gel eyeliner comes in a small pot, there is less wastage compared to pencil or liquid eyeliner, which can run out quickly.

Cons of using gel eyeliner

While gel eyeliner has several advantages, there are also some cons to consider before using it:

Requires a brush: Gel eyeliner requires a brush for application, which can be an additional cost if you do not already own one.
Drying time: Gel eyeliner takes longer to dry than liquid or pencil eyeliner, which can smudge if you touch your eyes too soon after application.
Less portability: Since gel eyeliner comes in a pot, it is less portable than pencil and liquid eyeliner, which can fit easily in a makeup bag or purse.
Requires a steady hand: The precise application of gel eyeliner requires a steady hand and some level of expertise, which can be challenging for beginners.
Difficulty in removing: Gel eyeliner is long-lasting and smudge-proof, which means it can be challenging to remove with just water and soap. You may need a makeup remover or oil-based cleanser to remove it completely.

What is Gel Eyeliner?

Gel eyeliner is a type of makeup product that is used to line the eyes. As the name suggests, it is a creamy, gel-like consistency that is applied using a brush. It is often preferred over other types of eyeliners because it is long-wearing, smudge-proof, and highly pigmented.

Gel eyeliner can be found in a variety of colors and finishes, including matte, shiny, and metallic. It is also versatile in terms of the intensity of the line, as it can be applied thinly for a natural look or thickly for a dramatic effect.

How to Apply Gel Eyeliner?

While applying gel eyeliner may seem intimidating at first, it is actually quite simple with a little practice. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply gel eyeliner:

Start with clean and dry eyelids.
Choose a small, angled brush specifically designed for gel eyeliner.
Dip the brush into the gel eyeliner pot and wipe off any excess on the edge of the pot.
Begin at the inner corner of the eye and apply the gel eyeliner in short strokes along the lash line, extending slightly past the outer corner of the eye.
For a tightline effect, gently line the upper waterline of the eye by pulling the eyelid up slightly and applying gel eyeliner to the upper waterline with a small brush or eyeliner pencil.
Repeat on the other eye.
For a winged eyeliner effect, extend the line from the outer corner of the eye upwards and outwards at a slight angle, following the curve of the lower lash line.
Finish the look with mascara and other eye makeup as desired.

Tools Needed to Apply Gel Eyeliner

In order to apply gel eyeliner properly, you will need a few key tools:

Gel eyeliner pot or tube
An angled eyeliner brush (synthetic fiber bristles are best, as they will not absorb as much product)
An eyeliner pencil for tightlining (optional)
A primer or base for the eyelids (optional)
A magnifying mirror (optional)

Tips for Using Gel Eyeliner

Here are a few tips and tricks for getting the most out of your gel eyeliner:

Always start with a small amount of eyeliner on your brush, and build up as needed. Too much product on the brush can lead to smudging and mistakes.
If you make a mistake when applying the gel eyeliner, use a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover to clean it up.
If you have trouble applying gel eyeliner in a straight line, try using a piece of tape as a guide. Place the tape at the angle where you want your eyeliner to end, and apply the gel eyeliner along the edge of the tape.
For a more natural look, you can use a brown or gray shade instead of black. These colors will give your eyes definition without looking too harsh.
To prevent the gel eyeliner from drying out, always make sure to close the lid tightly after use.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gel Eyeliner

Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions about gel eyeliner:

Q: Is gel eyeliner waterproof?
A: Most gel eyeliners are water-resistant, but not necessarily waterproof. If you need your eyeliner to be truly waterproof, look for a product that specifically states that it is waterproof.
Q: How long does gel eyeliner last?
A: Gel eyeliner should last up to 12 hours, but this can vary depending on your skin type and the specific product you use.
Q: Can I use gel eyeliner on my waterline?
A: While you can technically use gel eyeliner on your waterline, it is not recommended as it can irritate your eyes. Instead, use a waterproof eyeliner pencil specifically designed for the waterline.
Q: How do I remove gel eyeliner?
A: Gel eyeliner can be removed using a makeup remover or micellar water on a cotton pad. Gently wipe the cotton pad over your eyelids until all of the eyeliner is removed.