7 Eyeliner Tricks to Save You Massive Amounts of Time in the Morning

Eyeliner is one of those beauty staples that can be tricky to master when you’re strapped for time, as rushed application can cause accidental injuries or make those flicks and […]

By NewBeauty Editors · Jun 23, 2016

Eyeliner is one of those beauty staples that can be tricky to master when you’re strapped for time, as rushed application can cause accidental injuries or make those flicks and wings look noticeably uneven.

But instead of leaving those liner pens at the bottom of your makeup bag, it’s important to note that sizzling liner looks are possible, even if you only have five minutes to spare.

To leave the droopy lines and raccoon eyes in the past, we’ve asked six makeup experts to dish on some hacks that won’t throw a wrench in your morning routine. Yes, late risers, this is for you.

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Save Some Time For Winged Liner Looks

Cat’s-eye liner boasts undeniable sex appeal, but achieving the perfect flick can be challenging when you’re rushing out the door. To avoid a beauty fail, try allowing extra time in your morning to perfect this look.

“Try not to wing it in one step,” says Hannah Hatcher, expert makeup artist at Jane Iredale. “Cat’s-eyes take anywhere from four to eight strokes, depending on how comfortable you are with the method.”

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Use a Business Card to Avoid Mistakes

But to give your feline-inspired looks a helping hand, using tools with a straight edge can ensure perfect eyeliner symmetry.

“Hold a business card at a 45-degree angle at the corner of the outer edge of your eye and draw along it with a pencil for a winged eye look,” says Tim Quinn, Giorgio Armani Beauty face designer.

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Try the Stamping Method

However, if a business card (or scotch tape!) seems a bit intimidating, the stamping method allows you to get that cat’s-eye look without the messy complications.

“The stamping method is an easy way to get a precise line early in the morning,” says celebrity makeup artist Dana Rae, founder of ABLE Cosmetics. “Simply stamp your liner across your lid in small dots, then trace.”

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Get Fuller Lashes Fast

Eyeliner can even double for mascara, giving sparse and tiny lashes a much fuller appearance.

“Dot the upper lash line with long wear black liner—it instantly adds definition and creates the illusion of fuller lashes,” says Sonia Kashuk, makeup artist and founder of Sonia Kashuk Beauty.

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Don’t Be Afraid of Shimmer

Shimmering eyeliner may be too bold for everyday wear, but it can give your eyes a boost when you’re low on shuteye. To give your peepers a brighter appearance, use a shimmering nude shade to get that well-rested look.

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Prep for Smoky Looks

Smoky eyes may seem time-consuming, but selecting the right tools can cut application time in half.

“A smoky eye can be as simple as an eyeliner and a smudge brush,” says Kashuk. “When in a pinch, line the upper lashes and slowly blend it out over the lid with your brush, creating a smoky effect.”

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Save Time With Apps

Like finding the right outfit, planning out your daily makeup look can be frustrating. But to end the sighs and wasted time, makeup apps like Perfect365 provide eyeliner inspiration in seconds.

“Using Perfect365 has really helped me perfect my eyeliner makeup application—it’s really simple and easy to use,” explains Victoria Lyn, expert makeup artist and YouTube Star. “It’s a great tool that shows which kind of looks suit your eye shape.”