If you are just beginning to wear makeup, you may be overwhelmed by the many types and brands of eyeliners out there. Depending on what look you want to achieve, you will want to use different eyeliners to get that desired result. Listed below are the best examples of eyeliners I know of, and the most common ways to apply them.

Also see: Makeup 101: Type of Eyeliners Video Tutorial

Liquid Eyeliner

This is the most difficult to apply as it is very bold and slick. Liquid eyeliner generally comes in a tube with a brush that pulls out with the liquid on it. This is the most difficult liner to apply, so I recommend trying other types before using liquid liner.

You need a steady hand, and should apply by brushing short strokes close to the lash line. Start at the middle of the eye, directly above the upper lashes, and SLOWLY brush across the lash line. Then, start at the inner part of the eye and continue to brush until you reach the middle of your eye that you began with.

Pros:

• Great for Arabic makeup, cat eyes, and dramatic looks.
• Provides a well-defined, thin line which makes the eyelashes look thicker.

Cons:

• Very difficult to apply well.
• Takes a steady hand, patience, and practice practice practice!

My Pick: Ecriture de Chanel Automatic Liquid Eyeliner ( eBay / Amazon.com )

Pencil Eyeliner

This is the most commonly used liner as it is very easy to manage and control. Pencil eyeliners are just like any other pencil that you sharpen when needed. To apply, you simply “draw” on the line close to your lashline.

If you would like to have a color on your waterline, these are generally the best type to use. You DO need to look for ones that are ophthalmologist tested in order to prevent irritation in the eye.

Pros:

• Very easy to control.
• Comes in a wide range of colors.
• Very common and easy to find in every brand of makeup.

Cons:

• Unless you sharpen really well, it does not provide as crisp a line.

My Pick: Urban Decay 24/7 ( eBay / Amazon.com )

Gel/Cream Eyeliner

This liner has been used more by professional makeup artists than the mainstream public, but it is becoming more common. Cream eyeliners generally come in a pot that you can dip an angled brush, fine tip brush, or even a pencil eyeliner in to get the product out. It can even be used as a creamy base underneath eyeshadows.

If you use a brush to apply, you will need a slightly steady hand as it is creamy and glides pretty easily. Since this liner takes a bit longer to dry, it is great for smudging along the lashline.

Pros:

• Very creamy and easy to smudge.
• Great for smokey eyes.

Cons:

• Not as portable as a pencil eyeliner.

My Pick: Loreal Hip Creme Eyeliner ( eBay )

Eyeshadow as an Eyeliner

This is the fastest and easiest way to line your lashes. All you need is a stiff, angled brush or a pencil brush (like MAC’s 219). To apply, simply dip your brush into the eyeshadow of your choice and “draw” or smudge along the upper and/or lower lashline. You CANNOT use this on your waterline- it will not stick, and it will really irritate your eyes.

Eyeshadow lining is great for a more subtle daytime look. Plus, the color possibilities are endless! You could even use the pencil brush to smudge the eyeshadow on top of another eyeliner to get rid of any harsh lines.

Pros:

• Multiple colors to choose from.
• Easy to apply.

Cons:

• Cannot be used on the waterline.
• Does not last as long as other eyeliners do.

My Pick: MAC Eyeshadows ( eBay )