How to Keep Eyeliner From Flaking

How to Keep Eyeliner From Flaking
Published: Sep 26, 2011
Updated: Dec 13, 2021
2 minute read

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.

Tabitha Harwell

Tabitha Harwell has been writing since 2008, with articles appearing in local publications and various websites. Her background includes a career in the fashion and beauty industry. Harwell holds a Bachelor of Arts in public relations.

Sponsored
LEAFtv Logo

LEAFtv is your destination for food, beauty, style and feel-good living, with how-tos and inspiration for everyday life.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.