For many women over 50, the idea of pulling off a sleek winged eyeliner can feel intimidating. Hooded lids, fine lines, and the natural changes that come with aging often make traditional eyeliner techniques tricky. But beauty creator Nikol Johnson has gone viral for sharing what she calls the “lazy girl’s guide” to a winged liner—a simple hack that takes seconds and gives the eyes an instant lifted effect.
Why This Hack Works for Mature Eyes
Instead of painstakingly dragging eyeliner across the lash line and hoping both wings match, Johnson flips the script. Her trick? Draw the eyeliner directly on your fingertip first. Then, press the side of your finger at the outer corner of the eye and flick upward. This creates a soft, lifted wing in one sweep without the guesswork of freehand drawing.
The genius part of this technique is its flexibility:
- You can aim the wing higher for a more dramatic lift.
- If it comes out too thick or low, a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover easily cleans it up.
- Because you’re stamping instead of dragging, there’s less tugging on delicate eyelid skin.
As Johnson points out, “We’re always wanting to bring the visual up as we’re aging.” This fingertip stamp makes that effortless.
Step-by-Step: How to Do the Finger Wing
- Prime First – Start with an eye primer to neutralize the lids and prevent shadow from creasing.
- Add a Base Shadow – Sweep on a soft wash of color (like a pinky cashmere) for dimension.
- Curl the Lashes – Open up the eyes before liner application.
- The Finger Stamp – Using a creamy eyeliner pencil, draw a line on the side of your fingertip (closer to the nail, not the pad).
- Press & Flick – Place your finger at the outer corner of the eye, angle it upward, and gently stamp to create the wing.
- Refine & Connect – Use the pencil to fill in or connect the wing to the lash line if needed.
- Clean Up – A quick swipe with makeup remover sharpens the look.
- Finish With Mascara – The lifted wing pairs beautifully with volumized lashes.
The Result: Baby Wings for a Youthful Look
Johnson calls them “baby wings”—a subtle, soft alternative to a bold cat eye. They elongate the eye, create the illusion of lift, and work beautifully for everyday wear or special occasions. Paired with fresh skin, a touch of bronzer, and a rosy cream blush, the look is modern yet age-appropriate.
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Nikol’s Takeaway
What makes this hack so appealing is its simplicity. It’s forgiving, customizable, and—most importantly—fun. “Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t work the first time,” Johnson encourages. “It’s not life or death—it’s makeup. Play with it.”
For women in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond, this fingertip wing proves that eyeliner doesn’t have to be intimidating. With one quick stamp, it’s possible to lift, define, and rediscover the joy of playful makeup.
