When it comes to makeup trends that have lasted through the years, winged eyeliner, often called "cat-eye" eyeliner, is consistently a favorite. Its sharp lines can beautifully elongate and define the eyes. Similar to any beauty trend, winged eyeliner may not suit everyone. The shape and size of your eyelids are crucial in how effective this look can be. A recent survey found that nearly 40% of women found winged eyeliner good for enhancing their features*. In this post, we will explore the ins and outs of winged eyeliner, focusing on which eye shapes benefit from it and which ones don't.
Winged eyeliner stands out due to the upward "lift" at the edge which makes the eyes appear more open and wide. For those with larger eyes or more eyelid space, bold wings can add drama and flair. However, for those with deep-set, small, or droopy eyelids, achieving the desired effect can be quite tricky, as the eyeliner may go unnoticed, and the intricate but all important flick can get lost in the fold.
Winged vs classic eyeliner on similar eyelids
Classic eyeliner is suitable for all women. It provides a natural look, giving the impression of thicker lashes or a mascara effect, while a cat eye look is more dramatic and stylized.
Understanding Your Eye Shape
Identifying your eye shape is the first step to determining if winged eyeliner complements you. Here’s a practical guide:
Almond Eyes:
Almond-shaped eyes are versatile for eyeliner and can carry off a variety of styles. For instance, a classic wing will enhance their natural beauty.
Round Eyes:
Winged eyeliner can elongate round eyes. For maximum effect the wing is brought outward as much as possible beyond the outer corner.
Hooded Eyes:
Hooded, or heavy-lidded eyelids, are the trickiest to tattoo. The viewable eyelid area is typically very thin so even the most dramatic wing will stay hidden. It can be done but often it's better to choose classic eyeliner. This type of eyelid is better suited for eyeshadow.
Deep Set Eyes:
The eyelid often hides the wing with deep-set eyes. Using a more subtle or smudged approach can soften achieve the best result. .
A few last notes...
Depending on skin type and condition, tattooed eyeliner typically stays vibrant for years. Occasional touch ups can intensify the appearance.
Removing an eyeliner wing with laser is sketchy and expensive. The better option would be to conceal it with skin tone tattoo ink but it would probably not be a perfect match.
Tattooed eyeliner will always heal dark charcoal grey in caucasian skin but darker in more heavily pigmented skin tones. It will never heal shiny and jet black like liquid eyeliner.
Wrapping Up
While winged eyeliner continues to be a beloved makeup trend, its effectiveness varies based on individual eye shapes and characteristics. For those with larger eyes, winged eyeliner can highlight your natural beauty. However, if you have smaller or deeper-set eyes, consider alternative techniques and styles for a captivating effect.
Whether you want eyeliner for convenience or self-expression, or both, we can discover the right eyeliner style that complements you best.
See you at your appointment!
love erik