When it comes to makeup discussion, the two products, eyeliner vs mascara, often steal the show. These tools can completely change how your eyes and overall face will look. Both are used for the eyes, but they have different tasks.
If you’re uncertain about their differences, don’t be concerned. We will explore these in today’s article, and you will also discover when to use eyeliner, mascara, or both.
Differences Between Eyeliner and Mascara
Are you ready to explore the difference between eyeliner and mascara? We have broken them down into points. You will learn about them and why you should see each product.
1. Definition
- Mascara is a beauty product designed to darken and enhance your eyelashes, while eyeliner shapes your eyes. Understanding eyeliner vs mascara can help you achieve your desired look.
- Eyeliner is also a cosmetic used to line around your eyes. You can use it to define the shape and looks of your eyes. There are many eyeliner designs that you can use to shape your eyes.
2. Ingredients
- The ingredients in eyeliner can differ by type (gel, pencil, liquid), but in general, these include film formers like ammonium acrylates copolymer, color additives like iron oxides and ultramarines, thickeners like carbomers and silica, and skin conditioning agents like dimethicone and glycerine.
- Mascara ingredients typically include waxes, oils, polymers, and pigments collectively used for volume and to provide a smooth texture to your lashes.
3. Purposes
- Eyeliners define and shape your eyes. You can use them to give a soft, natural, or bold look, such as a dramatic cat eye.
- Mascara’s main purpose is to make your lashes pop by volumizing and lengthening lashes.
4. Applications
- The eyeliner is applied along the lash line or on the eyelid to create different shapes, such as wings, tight lines, or other designs.
- Mascara is applied only to your eyelashes, from the roots to the tips.
5. Tools Needed
- There are different types of eyeliner, and each requires specific tools. For instance, gel eyeliner requires a brush, while liquid liners require a precise tip.
- The mascara tools come with it. You can use this to create different effects, such as curled, lengthened, or voluminous.
6. Effects
- You can try your creativity with the eyeliner. It can get matte, shiny, or glittery finishes or give it a natural look.
- Mascara is more straightforward. You can use this as everyday makeup to make your lashes unique and beautiful.
Tabular Comparison of the Eyeliner vs Mascara
The table comparison of the eyeliner and the mascara is listed in the table below:
| Aspect | Eyeliner | Mascara |
|---|---|---|
| 1) Definition | It is directly used around the eyes. | It is used in lashes to voluminize it. |
| 2) Ingredients | Its ingredients include ammonium acrylates copolymer, iron oxide, silica, and glycerine. | Its ingredients include waxes, oils, polymers, and pigments. |
| 3) Purposes | The main purpose is to define and shape your eyes. | Its main purpose is to make your lashes pop by volumizing and lengthening lashes. |
| 4) Applications | It is used along the lash line or eyelid. | It is only used in the lashes. |
| 5) Tools Needed | It requires a brush for gel and a precise tip for the liquid eyeliner. | Not need any additional tools. |
| 6) Effects | It gives you the matte, shiny, or the glittery looks. | It helps you to get an enhanced natural look. |
|| Also Read: Brown vs Black Eyeliner: Which One is Best For Your Eye Color?
When to Use Eyeliner vs Mascara?
You can use eyeliner vs mascara together, but some scenarios call for using one at a time.
Use Eyeliner if You:
- You want to make your eyes look longer and wider.
- You want to make your eyes look more upturned.
- You want to be creative with your eyes for any bold designs.
- You want to add some extra drama to your lashes.
Use Mascara If You:
- You want to make your eyes look more awake.
- You want to strengthen the natural looks of your lashes.
- You are searching for a quick and simple way to brighten your eyes.
- You want to stand out your lashes against your eyeliner or eyeshadow.
How to Use Eyeliner and Mascara Together?
You can use the eyeliner and the mascara separately, but the magic happens when you use both together. Both combinations give you a balanced, bold, and more dramatic look, which you cannot achieve by using them alone.
If you want to discover how to use eyeliner and mascara together, we’ve got you covered. Just follow the steps below to combine both products effectively.
Step 1: Apply eyeliner first
Before applying mascara vs eyeliner, start with the eyeliner for precise looks.
Step 2: Then curl your lashes
Now, the next step is to curl your lashes. You can use different eyelash curlers to get a lifted effect before applying the mascara.
Step 3: Finally, apply the mascara
Now, the final step is to apply the mascara. You can start with the base of your lashes and wiggle upward.
You can also add multiple coats of mascara to get extra voluminous lashes. However, this is optional and up to you.
Conclusions
Whether you use eyeliner vs mascara or both together depends on your desired look. The eyeliner is used to define and shape your eyes. On the other hand, mascara adds more volume and length to your lashes.
In the end, it is about what makes you feel complete and confident. If you are not sure what to use, I suggest you experiment with all tools.
FAQs
What is the main difference in eyeliner vs mascara?
The difference between eyeliner and mascara lies in their function—eyeliner is applied around the eyes, while mascara is used on lashes.
When not to wear eyeliner?
I recommend avoiding eyeliner if you have sensitive skin or eye infections, especially during high-intensity activities such as swimming, exercising, or other strenuous tasks.
When should I use eyeliner only?
Use eyeliner only if you want to have naturally long, thick, bold, and dramatic eye looks.
When should I use mascara only?
You can use mascara solely if you are in a hurry and want faster casual daytime looks. It makes your eye stand out without needing any additional eye makeup.
Can I use eyeliner to create a smoky eye look?
Yes, eyeliner is the key to creating a smokey eye look. To achieve this style, use a pencil or kohl eyeliner. Start by applying eyeliner close to your lash line and smudging it with a fingertip or a brush. Then, layer it with eyeshadow to get a more dramatic finish.
