How Millennials Use Eyeliner (and What Gen Z Has to Say About It)

Social media, particularly TikTok, has pointed out a noticeable difference in how each generation applies eyeliner. If you’re a millennial, your cat-eye wing likely starts on the upper lid and is drawn sharply upwards from the outer corner of the eye. This technique often results in a thicker finish or a wing that appears slightly "droopy."

Gen Z, on the other hand, uses the lower lash line as a guide. Instead of angling upwards, their wing extends diagonally outwards, creating a sharper effect. They then add a thinner line of eyeliner along the upper lash line, resulting in a minimalist and refined look.

According to Gen Z, millennials are stuck in 2016 when it comes to aesthetics. Millennials, like every generation, tend to hold on to the style elements that were prominent during their formative years (skinny jeans, anyone?).

And that’s perfectly fine. It’s natural for a new generation to forge its own path and distance itself from the previous one, just as it’s normal for multiple styles and aesthetics to coexist. This way, everyone can choose what resonates with them most and fits their personal expression best.