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Eyeliner is worn by most women on a daily basis because it enhances the eyes and adds allure. Nothing is worse than applying eyeliner and having it flake off a few hours later, which is a problem for many women who fail to create a lasting foundation for their eye makeup. Whether you choose to line the upper lash only, or both lash lines, knowing the right way to apply the liner will help keep it in place throughout the day.

Wash old eye makeup off your eyes prior to applying new eye makeup with eye makeup remover. The remover is specifically formulated to remove eye makeup quickly and safely from the eye area. One of the primary reasons that eyeliner flakes is because it does not have a solid surface to attach to, thus causing it to flake off during wear. Rinse the remover off with luke-warm water and pat dry.

Apply eye primer to the upper eyelid from the lash line to the center crease. This will create a foundation for the eyeliner and eye shadow. Dip a cotton swab into the primer and apply the primer along the bottom lash line. This will help the bottom eyeliner stick to your skin, which is one of the primary areas of flaking.

Line the upper lash line with your eyeliner pencil or brush. Start from the inner corner of your eye and follow the lash line to your outer corner. Dip a flat, angled brush in coordinating eye shadow and follow the upper lash line. This will secure the eyeliner to the lid and eliminate flaking.

Line the lower lash line. Starting at the inner corner of your eye, follow the lash line until you reach the outer corner. When lining the lower lash, stay as close to the lash line as possible. This will ensure a clean and smooth appearance. Another option is to line the inner lash line to prevent flaking. Use your ring finger to pull your eye down slightly to expose the inner lash line on your lower lid. Line this area with your eyeliner pencil.

Finish the eye with eye shadow and mascara.

Tip

Eyeliner is typically good for up to three years, but if it breaks easily when sharpened, is dried out or has come in contact with bacteria, then exchange it for a new one. Old, or bad, eyeliner will flake off regardless of how well you prepare your eye area.

Correct any mistakes by dipping a cotton swab in eye makeup remover.

Do not confuse eyeliner with mascara. Mascara will flake off the eyelashes if it is old or has too many layers for it to properly stick to the lashes.

Warning

Always wash hands prior to applying eye makeup. This will prevent bacteria from transferring to your eye.

Avoid rubbing your eyes throughout the day. This will cause eyeliner to smudge and flake.