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
    Long Wear Gel Eyeliner

    Bobbi Brown

    Long Wear Gel Eyeliner

    $37
    2,911 REVIEWS
    New from the Camo Luxe Collection, this 12-hour waterproof eyeliner offers the precision of a liquid and the ease of a gel in rich camouflage-inspired limited-edition shades.
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  2. 2
    Mechanical Gel Eye Liner Package Of 3

    Hourglass

    Mechanical Gel Eye Liner Package Of 3

    $54
    83 REVIEWS
    The thinnest, softest, waterproof gel liner.
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  3. 3
    Quickliner For Eyes Intense

    Clinique

    Quickliner For Eyes Intense

    $29
    5,028 REVIEWS
    All the intensity of liquid liner in a richly pigmented, automatic pencil.
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  4. 4
    Cream Shaper For Eyes

    Clinique

    Cream Shaper For Eyes

    $29
    4,904 REVIEWS
    Creamy eyeliner pencil with a hint of shimmer works to shape and define with intense, stay-put color.
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  5. 5
    Quickliner For Eyes Eyeliner

    Clinique

    Quickliner For Eyes Eyeliner

    $29
    4,195 REVIEWS
    Twists up. Glides on. Smudges to a smooth blur of transfer-resistant colour. Needs no sharpening.
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  6. 6
    Perfectly Defined Gel Eyeliner

    Bobbi Brown

    Perfectly Defined Gel Eyeliner

    $37
    656 REVIEWS
    This unique gel-based pencil delivers richly pigmented color and precision lining with up to 12 hours of waterproof wear. 
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  7. 7
    Mystikol Powdered Eyeliner

    Jane Iredale

    Mystikol Powdered Eyeliner

    $26
    423 REVIEWS
    Create the sexy look you love with new improved Mystikol Powdered Eyeliners!
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  8. 8
    Ink Eyeliner

    Bobbi Brown

    Ink Eyeliner

    $37
    286 REVIEWS
    Pen-style liquid eyeliner delivers carbon-black pigment with extreme precision.
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  9. 9
    Brightening Eye Kajal

    Chantecaille

    Brightening Eye Kajal

    $34
    13 REVIEWS
    For wide-awake eyes
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  10. 10
    Lash Enhancing Liquid Liner Pen

    Trish McEvoy

    Lash Enhancing Liquid Liner Pen

    $50
    13 REVIEWS
    Liquid eyeliner defines eyes with controlled ease.
    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.