How to Apply Kohl Eyeliner for a Smoky Eye Look

By Neutrogena | Published: 2026-10-24

Category: How-to Guides

Master the smoky eye with our step-by-step kohl eyeliner tutorial. Learn to smudge, layer, and set your liner for a long-lasting, defined look.

Quick Answer

To create a smoky eye with kohl eyeliner, start by lining your upper lash line, then smudge the liner outward before it sets. Use a waterproof formula like Neutrogena Smokey Kohl Eyeliner to keep the look in place all day.

Why Kohl Eyeliner Works Best for Smoky Eyes

Kohl eyeliner has a creamy, blendable texture that makes it ideal for smoky eye looks. Unlike liquid or gel liners, kohl can be smudged and diffused easily before it sets, giving you that soft, lived-in effect.

Waterproof formulas add staying power, so your smoky eye won't smudge or fade during the day. This is especially useful if you have oily eyelids or live in a humid climate.

Choosing the Right Shade

While classic black is a go-to, deep plums and browns can create a softer, more wearable smoky eye. Neutrogena Smokey Kohl Eyeliner in Rich Plum offers a subtle color payoff that flatters a range of skin tones and eye colors.

If you're new to smoky eyes, start with a shade that's one or two tones darker than your natural lash line. This makes the look more forgiving and easier to blend.

Step-by-Step Smoky Eye with Kohl Eyeliner

Prep your eyelids: Apply an eye primer or a thin layer of concealer to your lids. This gives the kohl something to grip and prevents creasing. Skipping primer can lead to smudging and fading, especially with creamy formulas.
Line your upper lash line: Starting from the inner corner, draw a thin line along your upper lash line. Keep it close to the lashes for a natural base. Don't worry about perfection; you'll smudge it out next.
Smudge the liner: Before the liner sets, use a smudge brush or your fingertip to gently blur the line upward and outward. Work in small, feathery motions. Smudge too much and you'll lose the definition; start light and build up.
Add depth to the outer corner: Apply a bit more kohl to the outer third of your lash line and smudge it into a soft V shape. This adds dimension to the smoky effect. Keep the outer corner slightly darker for a lifted look.
Line the lower lash line: Apply kohl to your lower lash line, starting from the outer corner and working inward. Smudge it gently for a seamless blend. If you have small eyes, keep the lower line thinner to avoid making them look smaller.
Set the look: To lock in the smoky effect, pat a matching eyeshadow over the smudged liner using a flat brush. This sets the kohl and adds extra depth. Setting with powder helps the look last longer, but skip it if you prefer a glossy, wet-look finish.

Product We Recommend

Neutrogena Smokey Kohl Eyeliner with Antioxidant Vitamin E, Water-Resistant & Smooth-Gliding Eyeliner Makeup, Rich Plum, 0.014 oz: Neutrogena Smokey Kohl Eyeliner in Rich Plum delivers a water-resistant, smooth-gliding formula that helps create a defined, smoky look. The smooth-gliding texture makes it easy to apply and smudge, while the water-resistant formula helps your smoky eye stay put from morning to night.
Neutrogena Smokey Kohl Eyeliner with Antioxidant Vitamin E, Water-Resistant & Smooth-Gliding Eyeliner Makeup, Rich Plum, 0.014 oz