Best Eye Liners

What to Look for in Eyeliners

Choosing the right eyeliner can elevate your makeup look and ensure long-lasting wear throughout the day. Here are key factors to consider when shopping for eyeliners.

1. Formula Type

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Eyeliners come in various formulas, such as pencil, gel, liquid, and cream. Each offers a different finish and level of control—pencils are great for beginners, while liquids and gels provide bold, precise lines.

2. Longevity and Smudge-Proof Wear

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Look for waterproof or long-wear formulas if you need your eyeliner to last all day without smudging or fading, particularly in humid conditions or on oily eyelids.

3. Color Payoff

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A highly pigmented eyeliner ensures intense color with just one swipe. Consider whether you want classic black, brown, or a pop of color to match your style.

4. Ease of Application

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Consider the applicator design and how smoothly the product glides on. Some eyeliners have flexible felt tips for sharp wings, while others offer retractable pencils that don’t require sharpening.

  1. 1
    Side Eye Liner

    Neen

    Side Eye Liner
    $20
    5 REVIEWS
    A high-pigment pencil that doesn’t tug and just glides on.
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  2. 2
    Defining Liner

    RevitaLash

    Defining Liner
    $29
    1 REVIEWS
    A richly pigmented, easy-to-use, cream eyeliner formula for high-impact, stay-true color.
    View full details
  3. 3
    Pure Pigment Kohl Eyeliner Pencil

    Lash Star

    Pure Pigment Kohl Eyeliner Pencil
    $25
    1 REVIEWS
    An essential in every eye artist’s toolbox, this tried-and-true liner creates all the stroke styles you need.
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  4. 4
    Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner

    Hourglass

    Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner
    $28
    7 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A waterproof gel eyeliner that glides on effortlessly to deliver high-impact, 12-hour wear without smudging, bleeding, or fading.
    View full details
  5. 5
    Gel Eyeliner

    Tom Ford

    Gel Eyeliner
    $51
    750 REVIEWS
    A creamy, blendable gel-pencil liner that accentuates a dramatic look.
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  6. 6
    Long-Wear Cream Eyeliner Stick

    Bobbi Brown

    Long-Wear Cream Eyeliner Stick
    $34
    203 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Fine-tip design creates sleek, defined looks effortlessly, while the creamy, blendable formula smudges softly for smokey eye looks. 
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  7. 7
    Eye Defining Pen

    Tom Ford

    Eye Defining Pen
    $65
    1,902 REVIEWS
    Complete the look of the Tom Ford seductive eye with exceptional polish, using this innovative, dual-ended liquid liner.
    View full details
  8. 8
    Satin Kajal Liner

    Victoria Beckham Beauty

    Satin Kajal Liner
    $34
    30 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A creamy, smudge-free eyeliner with vivid, high-performance colors that simply demand attention.
    View full details
  9. 9
    Phyto-Khol Star Matte Eye Pencil

    Sisley-Paris

    Phyto-Khol Star Matte Eye Pencil
    $73
    55 REVIEWS
    An automatic, retractable eye pencil with an integrated pencil sharpener.
    View full details
  10. 10
    Brightening Eye Kajal

    Chantecaille

    Brightening Eye Kajal
    $34
    10 REVIEWS
    For wide-awake eyes
    View full details

What to Look for in Eyeliners

Choosing the right eyeliner can elevate your makeup look and ensure long-lasting wear throughout the day. Here are key factors to consider when shopping for eyeliners.

1. Formula Type

Citrus catapult arrow

Eyeliners come in various formulas, such as pencil, gel, liquid, and cream. Each offers a different finish and level of control—pencils are great for beginners, while liquids and gels provide bold, precise lines.

2. Longevity and Smudge-Proof Wear

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for waterproof or long-wear formulas if you need your eyeliner to last all day without smudging or fading, particularly in humid conditions or on oily eyelids.

3. Color Payoff

Citrus catapult arrow

A highly pigmented eyeliner ensures intense color with just one swipe. Consider whether you want classic black, brown, or a pop of color to match your style.

4. Ease of Application

Citrus catapult arrow

Consider the applicator design and how smoothly the product glides on. Some eyeliners have flexible felt tips for sharp wings, while others offer retractable pencils that don’t require sharpening.

When it comes to defining and enhancing your eye makeup look, finding the best eyeliner is essential. Whether you prefer a classic pencil, a long-lasting gel, or a precise liquid formula, the right eyeliner can make all the difference. Our curated selection of top-rated eyeliners is based on real user reviews, ensuring that you can confidently choose from the best options available. From smudge-proof to waterproof, and everything in between, our collection offers a variety of eyeliners to suit your individual style and needs.

FAQ

What types of eyeliners are available? + -

Eyeliners come in several forms, including pencil, liquid, gel, and cream. Each type offers different finishes and application techniques to help you achieve your desired look.

How do I choose the right eyeliner for my eye shape? + -

Selecting an eyeliner depends on your eye shape and the look you want to create. For example, liquid liners are great for sharp, defined lines, while pencils can be smudged for a softer effect. Experimenting with different styles can help you find the best match.

What is the difference between waterproof and regular eyeliners? + -

Waterproof eyeliners are formulated to resist moisture and stay put throughout the day, making them ideal for long wear or humid conditions. Regular eyeliners may be easier to remove but might not last as long in wet environments.

Can eyeliners be used on both the upper and lower lash lines? + -

Yes, most eyeliners can be applied to both the upper and lower lash lines. However, some formulas are specifically designed for certain areas, so always check product recommendations for best results.

How can I prevent my eyeliner from smudging? + -

To minimize smudging, start with a clean eyelid and consider using an eyeshadow primer. Setting your liner with a matching eyeshadow can also help lock it in place for longer-lasting wear.