How to Choose the Best Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner for Your Eye Shape

Introduction

Getting your eyeliner just right can instantly enhance your makeup look—but there’s more to it than just a steady hand. One of the key elements to nailing that perfect wing or sleek flick is choosing the best waterproof liquid eyeliner that compliments your unique eye shape.

Whether you’re aiming for a soft, everyday line or a dramatic cat-eye, tailoring your eyeliner technique to suit your eye shape can completely transform your results. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to identify your eye shape, pick the most suitable waterproof liquid eyeliner, and apply it like a pro—no smudging, no fuss.

Why Does Eye Shape Matters in Eyeliner Application?

Your eye shape plays a big role in how eyeliner looks and performs. When applied in a way that complements your natural structure—whether it's the crease, lid space, or overall shape—eyeliner can enhance your eyes and bring balance to your facial features. Understanding your eye shape helps you avoid common mistakes and allows you to create looks that truly flatter you.

But technique isn’t everything—product choice matters too. Using a high-quality waterproof liquid eyeliner ensures that your perfect wing or sleek line stays sharp throughout the day. Waterproof formulas are designed to resist smudging from sweat, tears, or humidity, making them ideal for long-lasting wear, even during busy days or special occasions.

Identifying Your Eye Shape

This knowledge helps you choose the most flattering look and get the most out of your waterproof liquid eyeliner. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you figure it out:

• Almond Eyes: If the outer corners of your eyes are slightly lifted and your iris touches both the top and bottom of your eyelid without showing much white, you likely have almond-shaped eyes. This balanced shape suits nearly every eyeliner style.

• Hooded Eyes: Do your eyelids seem to hide your crease when your eyes are open? That’s a sign of hooded eyes. The extra fold of skin can make liner application tricky—but the right technique can make them pop.

• Monolids: If your eyes don’t have a defined crease, you likely have monolids. This shape gives you a smooth, flat canvas that’s perfect for creative eyeliner designs and bold looks.

• Round Eyes: Round eyes often appear large and open, with the white (sclera) visible around the iris. This shape gives a youthful, wide-eyed effect and pairs well with elongating eyeliner styles.

• Upturned & Downturned Eyes: Look at the outer corners of your eyes. If they angle upward, you have upturned eyes. If they point slightly downward, your eyes are downturned. Liner can help balance or enhance these natural curves.

• Close-Set vs. Wide-Set Eyes: If the space between your eyes is smaller than the width of one eye, they’re close-set. If it’s wider, you have wide-set eyes. Tailoring your liner placement can help create the illusion of more balanced spacing.

The Best Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner Styles for Each Eye Shape

Almond Eyes

You’ve got one of the most versatile eye shapes—lucky you! Almond eyes naturally offer symmetry, making them ideal for almost any eyeliner look, from subtle lines to dramatic wings.

Try This: 

• Use a precise waterproof liquid eyeliner to draw a clean, even wing.

Hooded Eyes

With hooded eyes, part of your lid might be hidden when your eyes are open, so it’s all about strategic placement to keep the liner visible and smudge-free.

Try This:

• Keep the line close to your lash line, thickening it only toward the outer third.

• Go for a short, sharp upward flick to visually lift your eyes.

• Choose quick-drying, waterproof eyeliner to avoid unwanted smudges on the upper lid.

Monolids

Monolids provide a flat canvas, allowing you to play with bold, graphic eyeliner looks that truly stand out.

Try This:

• Opt for a thicker, winged liner that extends outward to elongate the eye.

• Create a tiny wing at the inner corner to enhance brightness and make your eyes appear more open.

• A long-wear waterproof formula is key to keeping your design intact.

Round Eyes

To create balance and a slightly elongated shape, the trick is in the way you draw the line.

Try This:

• Focus liner on the center of your upper lid and taper it gently at both ends.

• Skip a full wing and keep it soft if you're going for a natural look.

• Practice makes perfect—remove waterproof eyeliner gently to avoid irritation.

Upturned Eyes

This shape has a natural lift at the outer corners, making it ideal for classic winged eyeliner styles.

Try This:

• Trace along your top lash line, flicking the wing upward slightly to give your eyes a naturally lifted look.

• Pair your eyeliner with volumizing mascara to highlight the eye’s natural shape.

Downturned Eyes

A subtle upward flick with eyeliner can instantly lift the look of downturned eyes.

Try This:

• Focus your eyeliner on the outer edge of your eyes and sweep it upward into a subtle wing to lift the look.

• Stick to waterproof formulas so your liner stays put without drooping.

Close-Set Eyes

The aim here is to draw attention outward and create a sense of width between the eyes.

Try This:

• Start your eyeliner at the center of your eyelid and draw outward into a fine wing.

• Avoid lining the inner corners, which can make eyes look closer together.

Wide-Set Eyes

To bring balance, focus your liner closer to the inner corners and extend across the lid.

Try This:

• Start applying liner at the inner corner of your eye and glide it gently along the lash line for a clean, even finish.

• A complete top-lash liner look can help visually bring the eyes closer together.

What to Look for in a Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner?

Choosing the right waterproof eyeliner can make or break your look—especially when you're aiming for something that lasts all day without smudging. Here are the key features to keep in mind:

1. Truly Smudge-Proof Formula

Just because it says "waterproof" doesn’t mean it’s smudge-proof. If you have oily eyelids or long days ahead, go for an eyeliner that’s been tested to resist smearing, fading, or melting.

2. Precision Tip that Matches your Style

The applicator can make a big difference.

• Love sharp, graphic wings? Choose a fine brush tip.

• Need a quick swipe and go? A felt-tip pen offers control and ease.

Pick one that fits your routine and preferred finish.

3. Quick-Dry Magic

Nobody wants to deal with eyeliner transferring to their upper lid. A quick-drying formula will lock in your lines and keep your eye makeup looking clean and crisp.

4. Easy to Take Off

Even waterproof products should come off without a struggle.

Gentle removal is key—opt for an oil-based makeup remover or micellar water to lift the liner without irritating your eyes.

5. More than Just Black

Classic black is timeless, but don’t shy away from trying navy, brown, or even bold colors like plum or teal. A touch of color can make your eyeliner stand out in a subtle yet stylish way.

Final Thoughts

Eyeliner isn’t just makeup—it’s a form of self-expression that lets you enhance your natural features and showcase your unique style. When you match your eyeliner technique to your eye shape and choose the right waterproof liquid formula, the results can be transformative.

Whether you're aiming for subtle elegance or a bold, dramatic wing, remember: practice makes perfect—and your eyeliner game will only get stronger from here.

Stay bold, stay beautiful, and may your eyeliner always be on point!