So many liners, so little time! I have tried a million eyeliners. I have found a couple that I'm really happy with for my upper lid and lower lid. However, my waterline is a whole different story. I'm on an endless journey to find the perfect waterline eyeliner that will stay longer than a few hours. Here are some eyeliners I have tried.
(click on the product name to see where to purchase)
Gel liners are great for long wear and for a softer edge. They are great to smoke out. Using gel might take a little time to get the hand of but you'll love it once you do.
This is my go to gel liner for my upper lid.. I only use gel cream liner on my upper lid because I tend to have oily/greasy lids and gel seems to stay on the best and the smoothest. If you have tried MAC Fluidline before, this is like Fluidline in a pen! Fluidline in the pot was my go to until they came out with this. It's easy to use if you have used a gel liner pot with a brush before but way more convenient and goes on great. It only comes in black at this time and is part of their permanent line.
Description:
The innovative Rebeleyes Gel Eyeliner by M·A·C serves up the extreme long wear of a gel liner with the ease of the pen. It contains pigmented, non-staining ink which is delivered through a sleek, easy-to-use click pen with a precision that could rival a calligrapher's quill. Its unique flocked tip feels luxurious as it hugs the lash line and coats your eyes with bold streaks of matte color.
0.03 oz.
Benefit They're Real Push Up Gel Eyeliner
Description:
Benefit They’re Real! Push-Up Liner is the first foolproof and budge-proof gel eyeliner in a pen. This eyeliner’s soft AccuFlex™ tip is custom-angled to draw an easy line. Its flat, wide guard gently pushes lashes aside to get close to lash line.
Description:
M·A·C Fluidline is an ultrasmooth gel formula that provides the precision of a liquid liner with a silkier, softer finish. It goes on foolproof with a brush (sold separately) in an easy dip-and-stroke action. Long-wearing, waterproof and smudge-proof, it's available in a rich array of colors and finishes.
Dermatologist tested; ophthalmologist tested.
Non-acnegenic.
Gel pencils like gel pens or pots are usually long wearing and soft in texture. They'rejust easier to control and more convenient.
MAC Modern Twist Kajal Liner - Squid
I really like this new eyeliner from MAC. It just launched at counters on March 3rd. It's going to be added to their permanent line. It comes in 13 shades.
I have been using it to tightline my upper lid and on my lower waterline. It's one of the better waterline liners I've used. I've posted pics from different times of the day so you can see how it wears. As you can see it still fades throughout the day but the thing I really like is that it only fades it doesn't turn you into a raccoon and one other big thing is it doesn't pool into the outer corner of my eye (as shown by the little red arrow) which is one of my biggest pet peeves about waterlining.
Description:
With its easy-glide formula, Modern Twist Kajal Liner is a one-stroke wonder. Its soft, silky texture is perfect for applying eyeliner to the sensitive waterline, while its color intensity and extreme depth creates a look of unparalleled impact. It's long-wearing and waterproof, so your look is locked in for hours after applying.
0.01 oz.
Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eye Liner
This is my go to liner for my lower line. I usually only use pencil on my lower lid. It seems like a hassle to use two different eyeliners but it's what works best for me. I'm all about putting on and not worrying about it until it's time to take it off. This is smooth and very pigmented. It stays all day and I love that it's retractable and it comes in a wide range of colors. It also has lasted a long time, I'm not constantly repurchasing.
Description:
A waterproof, smudge-proof formula that delivers long-lasting definition with a twist of the wrist. Colour winds up when you need it and winds down when you don’t. The gentle, silicone-enriched formula.
This eyeliner I used for a little while and it worked well but I felt there isn't enough product. I used it up too quickly and I only used it for my lowerline. There are many other pencils last a LOT longer.
Description:
Stay sharp! Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kôhl Liner glides on smoothly and self-sharpens every time the cap is removed. Inspired by professionals who sharpen before every use on set, it gives the perfect tip for a precise line every time. The kôhl liner can also be used on the inner eye rim for an even more intense look and the nonflaking formula mimics the precision of a liquid liner in foolproof pencil form.
How to use: If your tip unexpectedly becomes flat or if you think it has accidentally broken off, simply twist the cap four to five times to get a fresh, sharp tip. Line the inner rim of the eye for an intense eye look and major definition.
Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner
Description:
Smudge Sticks are available in an array of matte and shimmer formulas that stay—not stray—for reliable color payoff that’s second to none. With a range of gorgeous shades to choose from, they feature a cocktail of moisturizing ingredients that ensures color glides on smooth (no tugging or pulling) and the waterproof formula won’t budge or fade.
What’s more, our Smudge Sticks can be used as a classic pencil liner or a smudgy eye shadow - simply smudge with your fingers or a brush. The color sets after you’ve had time to get your desired effect, and then stays put all day.
Size: 0.01 oz.
Description:
M·A·C Fluidline Eye Pencil is an ultra-smooth liquid liner in a pencil that rivals the brand's beloved Fluidline. It offers the same brilliant coverage that stays put for hours after application. It's smudge-resistant, easy to blend and glides on effortlessly.
Description:
Powerpoint Eye Pencil is a waterproof, long-wearing formula available in metallic, shimmer and matte finishes that is smooth to apply and won't smudge or budge. It draws on lines with precision.
Dermatologist tested; ophthalmologist tested.
Safe for contact lens wearers.
Eyeko Sport Waterproof Eye Liner
Description:
Eyeko Sport Waterproof Eyeliner is a multipurpose eyeliner that glides on and stays put, even under extreme sports conditions. It's formulated with coconut oil, which provides smooth delivery and a pitch-black line with every application.
How to use: Twist up for automatic application. Its built-in sharpener ensures your liner is always on point.
0.01 oz.
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Pencil
Description:
Creamy, forever-lasting, award-winning and waterproof, 24/7 pencils delight you with lush tropical hues, deep metallics, and unusually vibrant neutrals. The best Eye Pencil ever, ever, ever! Never before has a pencil this creamy and brilliant been waterproof, too. Velvety-soft, this never-before-seen formula stays soft and creamy for blending (about 30 seconds), then dries down to a long-lasting finish that WILL NOT budge. Line eyes with a hint of color or go for the full artistic, multi-hued effect with the wide selection of lush tropical hues, deep metallics and unusually vibrant neutrals.
Description:
The breakthrough Diorshow Pro Line Waterproof teams the easy application of a pencil with the glide and intensity of a liquid liner.
Its retractable tip hugs the lash line for an instant buildable line, from thin to thick. The beveled tip does not require sharpening and retains its ergonomic shape with each application. Its waterproof formula guarantees a long-lasting spectacular line.
Nars Larger Than Life Long Wear Eye Liner
Description:
Defined, dramatic, intense: NARS' Larger Than Life Long Wear Eyeliner takes liner to the next level. Rich, creamy color that glides on smoothly with a completely budgeproof finish. Incomparable 12-hour wear with no smearing and no caking. Nine deeply dramatic shades named for the most iconic streets in the world. Try the rich copper brown of Via Appia, Abbey Road's unabashed iridescent turquoise or the sleek slate grey of Madison Avenue. Start your day in one color's namesake city and end it in another with your liner maintaining absolute intensity.
Description:
Round the Clock™ Intense Cream-Glide Eyeliner is a creamy, pigment-packed eyeliner that brings high-intensity color and definition to the eyes. Formulated to resist smudging, smearing, and budging, it’s perfect for the waterline or tightlining, and glides on effortlessly to help you achieve a bold, dramatic eye look.
Non gel pencils or kohl pencils tend to not last as long but will give a great smoky eye. I tend not to use these types of pencils because they usually make a bigmess and I end up looking like a racoon by the end of the day. These are best for pictures are special events where longevity is not high priority, not an everyday look for me though. There are more and more gel kohl hybrid pencils coming out which give you the best of both worlds.
Description:
Eye Kohl is a soft pencil eyeliner that lines, defines and shades the eyes with rich color and a silky smooth, matte/pearl finish. It's even safe to use on your waterline.
Ophthalmologist tested.
Safe for contact lens wearers.
MAC Technakohl Liner Eyeliner Kajal
Description:
M·A·C Technakohl Liner is a mechanical pencil-style liner with a soft, creamy formula and intense, rich color. It blends on application then dries quickly to a long-wearing, no-smudge finish. The versatile liner easily lines the top and lower lash lines of the eye. When applied at a 90-degree angle, it provides a thin precision line. For thicker application, apply at a flat angle. It's transfer-resistant, lasts for up to eight hours and is safe for use on your waterline.
Ophthalmologist tested.
Non-acnegenic.
Safe for contact lens wearers.
Description:
NARS introduces Kohliner, a creamy, concentrated, matte-black formula that smokes out lash lines and defines waterlines with soft precision. Buildable, blendable, bold.
Description:
A creamy, soft-point pencil ideal for use as a liner, or to outline and define designs. Provides a bold, intensely smooth application with a well-defined, pigment-rich line.
These types of liners are great for a very subtle soft look or to set your gel or regular pencil. Used alone it will give a soft edge look but may not last throughout the day.
Guerlain Terracotta Khol Loose Powder
Description:
The Terracotta kohl creates mystery and depth to the eyes. This loose powder texture has a high concentration of pigments, and guarantees an impeccable hold. Housed in a jewel vial, an integrated applicator offers easy application.
0.03 oz.
Liquid liners are the best for a hard, sharp and defined line. Warning...these tend to have a major learning curve but once you've got it down you'll really like the result.
Stila Liquid Stay All Day Liner
Description:
A waterproof liquid liner enables you to create a variety of eye-opening effects—from thin, precise lines to thick, dramatic looks. The formula glides on with ease, dries quickly and won't smudge or run day-into-night.
The fine marker-like tip offers precise application for everyone from novices to pros and results in beautifully defined eyes that will leave a lasting impression.