Eyeliner was first used in Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia as a dark black line around the eyes. As early as 10,000 BC, Egyptians wore various cosmetics not only for aesthetics but to protect the skin from the desert sun. Research has also speculated that eyeliner was worn to protect the wearer from the evil eye. The characteristic of having heavily lined eyes has been frequently depicted in Egyptian art. They produced eyeliner with a variety of materials including lead, copper ore and antimony.
Dr. Wright’s Tip
Depending on its texture, eyeliner can be softly smudged or clearly defined. There are four main formulas available on the market: each produces a different effect.
- Liquid eyeliner is an opaque liquid that usually comes in a small bottle and is applied with a tiny brush or felt applicator. It creates a sharp, precise line. In our Prévia Cosmetic Line try our “STORM”.
- Powder-based eye pencil is eyeliner in a wood pencil. It is generally available in dark matte shades
- Wax-based eye pencils are softer pencils and contain waxes that ease application. They come in a wide variety of intense colors as well as paler shades such as white or beige. Wax-based eyeliners can also come in a cone or a compact with brush applicator
- Kohl eyeliner is a soft powder available in dark matte shades. It is most often used in black to outline the eyes. It comes in pencil, pressed powder or loose powder form. This type of eyeliner is more likely to smudge. In our Prévia Cosmetic Line try our “BROWN”.
The basic principle of eye makeup begins with eye shadow before eyeliner. The eye shadow acts a as base for the eyes and helps to create a matte finish on the lid and lash line before applying the eyeliner. The eyeliner will properly adhere to the eyes and is less likely to smudge.
