Can You Use Liquid Eyeliner On Your Waterline?

Adding eyeliner to your lower waterline is a great way to switch up your makeup routine and try a new look. But can you use liquid eyeliner on your waterline? We've looked into the answer to this question. In this post, we will discuss it in detail.

While you can use liquid eyeliner on your lower lid, it's generally not recommended. The reason is that the eyeliner will not last long and may take several layers to create a solid line. Liquid liner can also irritate your waterline, causing red, watery eyes, which can also ruin any other makeup that you've applied. For the most part, pencil or gel liners are preferred for the waterline area.

Caution should always be taken when adding eyeliner to your waterline. And if you prefer not to use liquid eyeliner in this area, it's actually a good thing. Continue reading to learn more about eyeliner alternatives to consider for your waterline.

Eyeliner Considerations For The Waterline

The waterline area of your eye is very sensitive, as it lies very close to the eye. This method of eyeliner application is also referred to as "tightlining." There are polymers and preservatives used in eyeliners that can be incredibly irritating to the waterline.

It can also be challenging to apply liquid liner to your waterline, as it will take longer to dry if your eye begins to water. The irritation can be exacerbated when the eyeliner runs, which is why liquid eyeliners are not recommended.

Also, the formula of liquid eyeliners is thinner than that of gel and pencil liners, meaning it's likely to run and smudge faster, even if it is a waterproof liner. So, unless you're going for a "caught in the rain" look, the best way to line your waterline is to use a cream, gel, or a pencil liner instead. These liners are more likely to stay put without irritating your waterline or eyes during the process.

Now let's discuss some of the best liners available for waterline applications.

What Are The Best Eyeliners For The Waterline?

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Pencil Eyeliner

Urban Decay products rarely, if ever, disappoint. And their 24/7 waterproof pencil is evidence of that. This eyeliner has a rich formula that glides on your waterline easily and will stay put for the rest of the day. The pencil has a creamy and velvety texture, so you don't have to worry about tugging at your eyelid to apply a solid line.

The formula is free of sulfates, phthalates, and parabens, which means that it is mild on the sensitive area beneath your eye. It also contains several moisturizing ingredients to help keep your eye line from drying out during the day.

Find out more about this eyeliner on Amazon.

Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Liner

This waterproof pencil by Stila is another liner that can work great for your waterline. If you're an eyeliner newbie or have sensitive eyes, this pencil is worth looking at. It is reasonably simple to use and has a rich, dense formula that goes on easily.

It also has an impressive wear time. You can apply the pencil to your waterline, eyelids, or inner eye for several different looks. It's great for smudging and is available in several different colors. It also contains vitamin E to prevent your waterline from drying out.

Read more about the Stila liner on Amazon.

Vasanti Cosmetics Waterline Kajal Eye Liner

Perhaps you're looking to add a bit of drama and definition to your waterline without the irritation. If so, here is the liner for you. The waterline eyeliner by Vasanti is explicitly designed for tightlining. You can apply it on both your lower and upper waterline for an instant lift and wider-looking eyes.

It has a smooth finish and will last 24 hours without smudging or running. The liner is also tested by ophthalmologists and dermatologists, giving it a stamp of approval for sensitive eyes and contact wearers. You'll also be happy to know that this formula is cruelty-free, vegan, and paraben-free.

Take a look at the Vansanti liner on Amazon.

Jillian Dempsey Kohl Waterproof Eyeliner

Here is another excellent eyeliner for your waterline. This liner is infused with several beneficial oils, including shea butter, jojoba oil, avocado oil, and sunflower seed oil. It works great on sensitive eyes, as it is free of petrochemicals, parabens, and dyes. It's also cruelty-free and smudge-proof. If you are looking for a liner to practice waterlining, look no further.

The oils in this formula give it a smooth application, and its creamy texture minimizes blank spots--meaning you won't have to apply multiple layers to create a solid line.

Check out this liner on Amazon.

Immovable By Mia Adora Eyeliner Pencil

If your eyes are prone to running when applying eyeliner, this liner is worth considering. Mia Adora's pencil works wonderfully to accentuate waterlines without the irritation and tears that may come along with it. It's great to create a smokey eye or add definition to your eyes so that they appear bigger and brighter.

The liner is also smudge-free, waterproof, and comes with a sharpener to help you create fine lines with precise detail. Another great thing about this line is that it's one of the most affordable options, especially given its quality. It's also paraben, fragrance, and cruelty-free.

Read more about the liner on Amazon.

How Do You Apply Eyeliner To The Lower Waterline?

Applying eyeliner to your lower waterline can be very intimidating at first. However, after trying it two or three times, you'll find that it's pretty simple.

Here are the steps to a fool-proof method that you can use to apply eyeliner to your lower waterline.

1. First, sharpen your pencil to prevent smudging create a fine line. This is also useful for removing any bacteria that may have accumulated on the tip of the pencil.
2. Take a Q-tip and dry your waterline beforehand. Gently roll the Q-tip across your waterline. You'll also want to make sure that no stray fibers are hanging from the end of the Q-tip--you don't want them to go in your eye when performing this step.
3. Next, take your index finger and gently hold down your bottom lid. When holding your bottom eyelid, take your liner and apply it to your waterline's outer edge and bring it towards the center. Then take your Q-tip and clean up any smudges on the line. You may need to dip with the Q-tip in makeup remover or moisturizer lightly.
4. Finally, go over the water line once more to "stamp" the liner in place and cover any blank spots. You shouldn't see any of your skin peeking through the line.

How Do You Keep Eyeliner On Your Waterline The Whole Day?

Having waterline eyeliner that stays on for the entire day starts with using the right product. It's best to use a gel or pencil product that is waterproof and has long-lasting capabilities. It's even better if you find an eyeliner that is designed specifically for the waterline. You'll also want to make sure that the liner has mild ingredients so that it does not irritate your waterline, which can cause your eyes to become red and runny.

Once you've found a great product, the next step to ensure a full day's wear is to apply the eyeliner properly to the waterline. It's important to hold your top or a bottom eyelid taut while applying eyeliner to the waterline. This will prevent blank spots and allow you to create a solid line. Lastly, you may need to go over the water line once or twice so that the liner forms a solid base.

Be sure that your eyes are dry during this process, or the eyeliner will not stick properly. If needed, use a Q-tip to dab them periodically.

Find Q-tips on Amazon.

Is Liquid Eyeliner Bad For Your Eyes?

Liquid eyeliner isn't necessarily bad for the eyes, but it can be harmful if used incorrectly. It's not recommended for use on the waterline as its ingredients, and its runny consistency can irritate the eyes. Liquid liner can also be a breeding ground for infection-causing bacteria if the eyeliner is old. Ophthalmologists recommend replacing eyeliners every three months to prevent them from harboring harmful bacteria that can put users at risk for eye issues such as pink eye or conjunctivitis.

Wrapping Things up

Applying liquid eyeliner to your waterline may irritate your eyes and cause them to become watery. It's best to use pencil or gel liners for your waterline, as they offer easier application, less irritation, and longer wear time.

Before you go, be sure to check out our other posts:

Does Eyeliner Make You Look Older?

What’s The Best Eyeshadow For Brown Eyes And Fair Skin?