Pencil liner: a pro makeup artist’s technique for a clean line that lasts all day long

Eyeliner is a make-up must-have, but it can quickly become a nightmare. Smudgy lines, thicker lines, short-lived wear: these are common problems. Fortunately, a professional make-up artist has revealed his secrets for achieving a fine, long-lasting pencil liner in April 2026.

A make-up artist’s advice for a pencil liner that lifts the eyes

Tommy Pierre Britsch, aka @tommypierremakeup on TikTok, shared his complete method. According to this makeup artist, the first step is to choose the right formula. He recommends a waterproof gel pencil, as it holds better and resists everything throughout the day.

Another surprising tip: apply mascara before pencil. The make-up artist explains that the lashes will then start moving in a precise direction. This direction then guides the line of the liner. He also recommends a mascara with maximum volume for a more intense effect.

“When you go to apply your mascara, your lashes are going to go in one direction, and that’s going to be the direction of your liner.”

Where to start the line to avoid a heavy effect

The starting point of the liner is often overlooked. Yet make-up artists insist on this detail. He recommends starting the line from the iris, i.e. the middle of the eye. In this way, the line remains light and doesn’t overload the eyes.

If the liner starts too close to the inner corner, the result becomes thick and too dark. The goal is to fill in the lash line at the outer corner, then draw a small comma. He also advises sharpening the pencil to obtain a fine lead.

• Choose a waterproof gel pencil for better hold
• Apply mascara first to guide line direction
• Start the liner from the iris, not the inner corner.
• Sharpen the pencil for the finest possible lead
• Use a precision brush to connect the line to the mobile eyelid.

The step-by-step technique for a fine, precise line

How do you actually draw a clean liner with a pencil? The make-up artist ‘s method is simple and accessible. Simply open your eyes wide, look straight ahead, then position the pencil at the tip of your eye. He then takes a small stroke to draw a thin line.

The next step requires you to close your eyes slightly while looking straight ahead. At this point, a precision brush is used to bring the liner back onto the mobile eyelid. This technique creates the famous comma that stretches the eyes outwards.

If the result isn’t perfect, don’t panic. The make-up artist suggests using a small brush with concealer. After blending it onto the hand, you can redraw the contours of the liner. Thanks to this trick, the line becomes sharper and more defined.

Finishing touches to enhance eyes and set make-up

For an even more spectacular effect, Tommy Pierre Britsch suggests adding beige pencil to the lower mucosa. This light touch instantly opens up the eyes. It also adds luminosity to eye make-up.

Finally, the last step is essential for staying power. The make-up artist reminds us of the importance of spray fixative. This product seals in make-up and guarantees a flawless finish all day long. No more mid-afternoon touch-ups.

Why this method works on all types of eyelids

Whether you have drooping eyelids or not, this technique is adaptable. Drawing the liner with your eyes open allows you to see exactly where the line is going. As a result, there are no unpleasant surprises once your eyes are closed.

Using the precision brush also offers total control over the final shape. You can adjust the comma to suit your eye shape. In this way, liner lifts the eyes rather than weighing them down.

The choice of waterproof gel pencil also contributes to the success of this method. Its texture glides easily over the eyelid without clumping. At the same time, it dries quickly and stays in place without creasing.

With these professional tips, eyeliner becomes an ally rather than an enemy. The key is preparation, the right equipment and a few simple gestures. From now on, a perfect liner is within everyone’s reach.

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• make-up artist