How to Apply Eyeliner to Waterline - Is It Bad for Women over 40

by Linda B
(NJ)

Applying Eyeliner to lower eyelid waterline.

Do you apply bottom liner on the water line or below it? I was told it's not a good idea to do that. I don't really have bags, but I do have some dark circles under my eyes. Think I can get away with it?

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Editor:

Hi Linda,

Thanks for your email about eyeliner application for women over 40. Many people wonder if applying eyeliner to the waterline is a good idea. Some believe it can irritate the eyes, smudge easily, or even highlight wrinkles—but it doesn’t have to be that way!

I'll give you ideas on how to apply eyeliner safely and beautifully, even as we age.

Is Eyeliner on the Waterline Bad?

Applying eyeliner to the waterline has its pros and cons. Some believe it’s “bad” because:

Irritation: Eyeliner can migrate into the eye, causing discomfort or redness.
Smudging: The moist surface makes it difficult for eyeliner to stay put.
Aging Concerns: On mature skin, harsh lines on the waterline might exaggerate wrinkles or puffiness.

However, with the right techniques and products, you can minimize these issues. Waterproof, hypoallergenic eyeliner is a great choice, and applying a thin line just below the waterline can give you a similar defined look without the risks.

It seems that women over 40 or 50 are afraid to wear eyeliner because they are told it can exaggerate puffy eyes, dark shadows, dark circles, and wrinkles. While that might be true, I need to wear eyeliner or I feel I look tired or washout!

While some say eyeliner on the waterline is bad, but when applied carefully, I can make it work.

HERE IS WHAT I DO:

1. I apply the liner on the upper waterline,

2. Then I shut my eyes or blink a few times. This causes some of the color to naturally transfer to the lower eyelid waterline. Giving the lower waterline a slight hint of color and definition.

Sometimes, if I want more definition like for an evening out, I'll also apply a small amount of dark eyeliner on the inside water line of the lower eyelid.

However, I only draw the eyeliner on the outer 1/3 or 1/2 of the lower eyelid. I start at the outer corner of the eye and stop in the middle. If I draw the line all the way across to the inner eye, I feel it makes my eyes look smaller.

What to Do If Waterline Eyeliner Isn’t for You

If you’re worried about applying eyeliner to the waterline, try these alternatives:

1.Draw a soft line just under the lower lashes for a defined look without irritation.
2.Use a champagne or nude eyeliner on the waterline to brighten your eyes instead.
3.Focus on the upper waterline for subtle definition without smudging risks.


Also, Learn more about safe eyeliners for sensitive eyes here.

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Re: Dark Circles:

To help brighten my eyes, I apply a very thin line of bright, creamy colored concealer (the champagne colored eyeliner works nicely too) right under the lower eyelash line and smudge it it a bit. I usually do this before applying any eye makeup.

Then, I like to use two different types of eyeliner:

1. Maybelline eye pencil. It does not transfer too much color so it's perfect for simple everyday wear.

2. Creamy waterproof eyeliner with a very thin brush from Mommy Makeup. I use dark brown, orchid, and/or a golden champagne color. This eye makeup works as a shadow, eyeliner, and some can use the lighter colors as a cheek highlighter. THIS COLOR IS GORGEOUS!

You can see a picture of me wearing here!

I love this creamy makeup because it lasts all day and night. Plus, they come in several beautiful colors.

You can see pictures of how I apply this eyeliner and some of the different colors I use from Mommy Makeup here.......

P.S. If you click on the link above and scroll down toward the bottom of the page, you'll see how the champagne colored eyeliner/makeup looks. It's really subtle but pretty and can be used as a eyebrow highlighter or eyeshadow too.

Finally
Applying eyeliner to the waterline doesn’t have to be bad for your eyes or your look! By choosing the right products and techniques, you can achieve beautiful, defined eyes that work for you. I hope these tips help!
Best,
Linda