The dot eyeliner technique is a make-up trend that is enjoying great success both on the runways and off. This makeup got a surge in popularity in the 1960s, when famous model Twiggy used it to highlight her eyes and lashes. It has gone out of style over time, but has recently made a comeback. The simple version is to draw a single dot just below the lower lashline of both eyes, usually in the center. More experimental tricks have also recently taken over that play with the quantity, size, colors and location of the dots.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Create a Simple Stitch Eyeliner
Step 1. Use a black or brown water resistant eyeliner
The simplest and most natural technique of all involves the use of a brown or black eyeliner. Black is generally preferred to create a doll effect, which is often the goal of this trend. To make sure your makeup is fixed well, use a waterproof eyeliner.
- If you find black is too intense for your taste, start by using brown eyeliner.
- Both liquid and pencil eyeliners work well, although the former allow you to exercise greater control and give a more precise result.
Step 2. First apply primer and concealer
In addition to using a waterproof formulation, also preparing the eye area with primer and concealer makes makeup last longer and prevents smudging. Apply the primer directly under the eyes, trying to work it up to the lashline. Then, apply a creamy concealer to the primer and blend for a natural result. Set the concealer with a thin layer of translucent face powder.
Step 3. Draw a dot under each eye in the center of the lashline
For a natural effect, draw them as close to the lower lashline as possible. If you want the result to have more impact, draw the points a few millimeters away from the hairline. The further you move away from the lashes, the more intense and visible the result will be. The size of the spot depends on your taste. Draw a millimeter stitch to recreate a bohemian-inspired style, while enlarging it for a more decisive result.
- Make sure you line up the dots with the pupils for a symmetrical result.
- The size of the dots should not exceed that of a pencil eraser, otherwise you risk a clown effect.
Step 4. To mimic Twiggy's look, thicken and volumize your upper lashes
The dot eyeliner was a great success in the sixties thanks to the famous model, who used this trick to highlight the eyelashes and have doe eyes. Once you have drawn the points, make several strokes of mascara on the upper lashes.
Generally it is recommended to prevent lumps of mascara, as the lashes sticking together are considered unsightly, but this effect tends to stand out even more the makeup
Step 5. Do little makeup on the rest of the face
To avoid ending up with a theatrical makeup (unless that's your goal), the rest of the makeup should be simple and fresh. Even out your complexion with foundation or BB cream, then apply a thin layer of blush to your cheeks for a healthy glow. Choose a neutral cream eyeshadow and shape your brows to naturally frame your face.
This makeup is sometimes accompanied by an intense lipstick, but you can also choose a nude to draw attention to the eyes
Method 2 of 3: Experimenting with Colors
Step 1. Try a bold color like orange or aquamarine
While not a wearable everyday makeup, it's perfect for a night out or when you feel like daring. It is now possible to find eyeliner in any color, so the options are certainly not lacking. Bright blue has made its mark on the runways, but you can choose whichever color you prefer.
If you decide to create eye-catching makeup, it is important that the rest of the makeup is neutral. Covering the face with flashy products does not allow you to get a good result (unless it is a costume)
Step 2. Try drawing red dots to match the lipstick
To draw the points, choose a color that allows you to unify the whole makeup, such as red. For example, you could apply cherry red liquid lipstick to your lips. Use the same lipstick on your cheeks as if it were a blush, applying just a veil of it (imagine it's a cream blush). Look for a cherry red eyeliner of a similar tone to draw the points. It may seem excessive to you, but in reality this look has already been sported by other people on various occasions, so nothing stops you from doing it.
The eyeliner and blush do not have to be the same shade as the lipstick. You can experiment with different shades of red, such as coral and crimson
Step 3. Give metallic tones a try
Liquid eyeliner in metallic shades like gold, silver and bronze has gained some popularity in recent years, so it's not difficult to find it in perfumery and makeup stores. Use it to draw the points - the effect will be unique and original. For a bright but subtle result, try to create barely noticeable dots.
Method 3 of 3: Experiment with the Position of the Points
Step 1. Draw more than two points
Dot eyeliner has gained so much popularity that multiple variations have now been tried, including the application of two dots. For example, you can create the first two as usual, then add one (or even two) below in descending order. You will get a very interesting gradient effect.
Step 2. Draw points in other parts of the eye area as well
Break the rules and dare! To start, draw the usual two points under the lashline, then add more in the inside of the eye and outside. Try using a metallic tone in the inner and outer corner.
- You can also draw a line of dots on the eyebrows.
- Try creating cat eye makeup by drawing a series of dots.
- If you are looking for a simple variation, draw a dot under the arch of each eyebrow.
Step 3. Vary the color and position of the dots
In the world of makeup, there are no rules, especially when you are in the mood to experiment and have fun. If you are a makeup enthusiast, it is possible that you have seen this makeup on Instagram. Draw the first point using only one color. Take another color to draw a smaller dot underneath. Then, take yet another color and draw another dot underneath. Using the third color, add dots on the inner and outer corner of the eye as well.
- You can also try a monochromatic approach. Draw the first points using a dark color. Draw the next points by choosing a lighter tone of the same color. Then, draw the last two using an even lighter tone.
- Draw points of descending size to achieve a gradient effect in terms of both magnitude and slope.