The 13 Best Eyeliners For Beginners – Makeup Artist’s Top Picks Of 2024

Our eyes attract a lot of attention, especially now that the rest of our faces are covered with masks. To nail the perfect eyeliner look, you must invest in the best eyeliners for beginners. While it may take you a while to nail the cat-eye or get the perfect wings (on both sides!), you can always start with the classic eye looks. You can try out different techniques with the best quality eyeliners. Ask any celebrity makeup artist, they will tell you the power of eyeliner to define the eyes.

The fashion world has a lot to offer, and the types of eyeliners are endless. To help you navigate the market, we have listed the 13 best eyeliners for beginners. Scroll down to find out more about these products and choose your favorites.

13 Best Eyeliners For Beginners Worth Hoarding

1. Best Smudge-Proof:NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner

4.4

Image: Nyx Professional Makeup

Now 16% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $8.41

Buy on Walmart

If you’re still mastering the art of using an eyeliner, the Epic Ink Liner from NYX Professional is a dependable one to begin with. It features an ultra-precise felt tip that is flexible and easy to use. Since this is a pen-style applicator, it is more convenient to practice styles that may seem intimidating. The body of the eyeliner brush also renders a good grip for a precise eyeliner application. It has rich pigmentation and is fluid enough to ink your lids with a feather-light touch. All you have to do is press it to control the thickness of the strokes. Check out this YouTuber’s review featuring this reviewer’s experience of the product if you require more details.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 8,684 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.

2. Best Waterproof Formula:Lovoir The Flick Stick

4.2

Image: Lovoir

BUY ON AMAZON | $14.98

Buy on Walmart

Nailing the winged liner for the unschooled is not an easy task. But when you lay your hands on The Flick Stick, there’s no way you can go wrong. It is available in different sizes – 8 mm, 10 mm, and 12 mm so that you can create your desirable eye look. This eyeliner for beginners features a stamp at one end and a felt tip on the other. It is highly pigmented and lasts for almost 6-9 hours. The black eyeliner is enriched with candelilla wax and carnauba wax that help it dry quickly and stay put. You can also check this YouTube video for a closer look at this long-lasting eyeliner through a tester’s experience.

Pro Tip

Curl your toes while applying your liner to avoid shaky hands and get straight lines.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The overwhelming 28,814 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.

3. Best For Sensitive Eyes:Maybelline New York Unstoppable Eyeliner – Onyx

4.5

Image: Maybelline

BUY ON AMAZON | $5.86

Buy on Walmart

The Maybelline Unstoppable eyeliner is ideal for beginners who intend to start with a pocket-friendly eyeliner. Lauded for its affordability, this eyeliner for beginners is cream-based and formulated to glide effortlessly without pulling or hurting the lids. The tip of the eyeliner is designed to stay sharp, thanks to its self-sharpening mechanism. You can maneuver this mechanical eye pencil for bold as well as thin precision lines. It also allows some playtime for a smudged look. Once you manually smudge the eyeliner, it stays put for longer periods. Waterproof, ophthalmologist-tested, and versatile — this eyeliner is made to flatter all eye shapes. This product is not tested on animals, which makes this a good fur-friendly option.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received over 18,240 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

	NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner Best Smudge-Proof	Lovoir The Flick Stick Best Waterproof Formula	Maybelline New York Unstoppable Eyeliner - Onyx Best For Sensitive Eyes
	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now
Color	Black	Midnight Black	ONYX
Dimensions	-	5 x 5 x 0.7 inches	0.41 x 1.88 x 5.63 inches
Weight	-	1.13 Ounces	0.26 Ounces
Rating
Reviews	8,684	28,814	18,240
Price	$8.41	$14.98	$5.86

4. Best Fade-Proof Option:L’Oréal Paris Infallible Never Fail Eyeliner

4.4

Image: L'oreal Paris

BUY ON AMAZON | $7.75

Buy on Walmart

If you’ve been relentlessly searching for a smokey eyeliner for beginners, your search can end right here. This expertly crafted creamy eyeliner pencil has everything you need to practice the smudged look. The soft eyeliner helps master all kinds of strokes, and comes with a built-in smudger for a flawless-looking smokey eye. For finer strokes, you can use the built-in sharpener for a pointed tip. It also adds more volume to your lashes when you apply it on the lash lines. Applying an eyeliner for beginners gets so much easier when you work with this eyeliner that stays put for up to 16 hours without demanding constant reapplications. If you want to know more about the results, take a look at this reviewer’s experience in this video on YouTube.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The extensive 19,977 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.

5. Best Sweat-Proof Eyeliner:Rimmel Scandal Eyes 24 HR Wear Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil

4.2

Image: Rimmel

BUY ON AMAZON | $3.99

Buy on Walmart

The Rimmel Scandaleyes gel eyeliner pencil is a perfect choice for makeup newbies who want precision but not the mess. Whether you’re a fan of waterlining or commit to master lining your lids — nothing can stop you when you pick this pencil eyeliner for beginners. It has a creamy formula and is super soft, helping it slide on the lids, leaving behind intense strokes. When you have this eyeliner pencil in your bag, you can even hit a sunny beach with your liner on because it is heat, humidity, and waterproof. The brand does not conduct animal testing, which makes this a great option for ethically conscious consumers.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 24,491 reviews claiming its efficacy.

6. Best Long-Wearing Product:Kat Von D Tattoo Liner – Trooper Black

4.3

Image: Kat Von D Beauty

BUY ON AMAZON | $23.0

Buy on Walmart

This eyeliner from Kat Von D is among the most recommended eyeliners for beginners who look for grippy liner pens that lend a great deal of control for unsteady hands. This dramatic, graphic eyeliner features an ultra-precise brush tip that makes many eyeliner techniques easier to master. It is a long-wearing eyeliner that you can count on when you’re having one of those days where you can’t seem to catch a breath. Whether a pro or a rookie, this eyeliner can save your time and make lining the eyelids a cakewalk. Give it a little shake for an uninterrupted and pigmented flow to make a statement with your eye makeup. This product is not tested on animals, which makes this a good fur-friendly eyeliner.

7. Best Travel-Friendly:Palladio Wooden Eyeliner Pencil, Midnight Blue

4.1

Image: Palladio

BUY ON AMAZON | $5.99

Buy on Walmart

When on busy days, you wish to carry an eyeliner that is easy to use, the Palladio Wooden Eyeliner Pencil is the perfect solution. This eyeliner pencil helps achieve perfectly outlined eyes with its soft, smooth, and creamy formula. It is enriched with soybean oil and botanical extracts, skin-loving ingredients that help the liner glide on smoothly and make the application easier. You can also grab this versatile eyeliner for a no-liner look or double flick and also apply it as a base for a smokey eye look.

8. Best Transfer-Resistant Eyeliner:MAC Liquidlast Eyeliner – Point Black

4.6

Image: Mac

BUY ON AMAZON | $22.0

If you aspire to be a true beauty guru, you need a classic liquid liner like this one from MAC. This beautifully intense black liquid eyeliner has an ultra-smooth formulation that flows on your eyelids like no other. Once on your lids, it stays on without flaking or smudging unless you decide to wipe it off. The ergonomic applicator of the waterproof liquid eyeliner is designed to fit snugly between your fingers to make it easier to create different styles. You’ll find a range of irresistible shades in both matte and shimmer finishes if you’re looking for a change from black. This liquid formula from this celebrity-endorsed brand offers exceptional results for all your makeup needs.

9. Best Organic: Jillian Dempsey Khôl Eyeliner, Jet Black

4

Image: Jillian Dempsey

BUY ON AMAZON | $20.0

Buy on Walmart

Jillian Dempsey Khôl Eyeliner is a perfect dual-ended pencil to deliver rich color and a sultry touch to the eyes. It has a luxurious, ultra-pigmented formula that glides smoothly on your eyelids to create various makeup looks. It comes with a built-in soft smudger to help you ace the soft-focus look with a smudged effect. With plant-derived ingredients like organic shea butter, jojoba oil, marula oil, and other natural antioxidants, it ensures a super smooth application. The eyeliner is quick and easy to apply, letting you skip the mascara on days when you simply want an effortless eye makeup look.

10. Best For Oily Skin:blinc Liquid Eyeliner

3.9

Image: Blinc

BUY ON AMAZON | $24

The blinc Liquid Eyeliner has a non-irritating formula that glides smoothly on the eyes, making it an excellent choice for those who have sensitive eyes and oily skin. It is a water-resistant formula that contours the eyes to give you the perfect look. It is fade-resistant and smudge-proof, with a creamy consistency that aids in eyeliner application. From neat lines to blurred, smokey style, it allows you to experiment with different looks.

11. Best In Budget:SHANY Slim Eyeliner Pencil Set Of 24

3.9

Image: Shany

BUY ON AMAZON | $17.95

Buy on Walmart

If you love to match the color of your eyeliner with that of your outfit, the SHANY pencil set of 24 is what you need. You’ll find a whole range of stunning colors in metallic, shimmery, and matte finishes for every occasion and every outfit. This eyeliner for beginners has a creamy texture that glides effortlessly both on the eyelids and the lips. SHANY does not test its products on animals, so you can color your lips and lids with any shade without feeling guilty. These powerful pencil eyeliners are worth setting your hands on if you want a beautiful black finish on a budget.

12. Best Quick-Drying:Almay All-Day Intense Gel Eyeliner, All-Day Grey

4.1

Image: Almay

BUY ON AMAZON | $6.89

The Almay All-Day Intense Gel Eyeliner is a clean makeup product for creating bold eye looks for beginners. The gentle, creamy gel formula of the eyeliner is easy to use on the waterline and is suitable for contact lens wearers. The intense gel black pigmentation of the liner glides effortlessly onto the lids for a smooth and sleek application. It dries quickly and stays put without smudging and fading all day long. It is available in various shades to choose from, is travel-friendly, and is verified by the environmental working group (EWG). The product is also hypoallergenic and contains no fragrance.

13. Best For Precise Lines:Clinique Pretty Easy Liquid Eyelining Pen

4.5

Image: Clinique

BUY ON AMAZON

The Clinique Pretty Easy Liquid Eyelining Pen features an ultra-precise tip that is flexible and easy to use for beginners. When life throws a series of busy days at you, you need an easy-to-use, uncomplicated eyeliner like this one to look flawless no matter how busy you are. The expertly crafted liquid eyeliner pen makes it more convenient to ace different eye looks. Its body allows for a good grip for a smooth and sleek application. The pigment-rich formula glides effortlessly without pulling or hurting your eyelids and offers a pure and deep color. The matte black eyeliner is versatile and can be used to create bold and subtle looks. It has a long-lasting effect that stays put for long periods.

Accentuating the eye is an essential part of makeup to get that sultry and bold look. Eyeliners could give you that subtle pop of color that stands out and makes your eyes appear gorgeous. Choosing the best eyeliner for a beginner can be tricky. With countless options available, let us look at a few things to consider before buying eyeliners for beginners.

What To Consider When Buying Eyeliners For Beginners

• Eye Color: Look for an eyeliner that goes well with the color of your eyes. Though there is no thumb rule for the same, it does work sometimes to emphasize the look. If you have brown eyes use a light brown shade to highlight your eyes. Blue-colored eyes go well with golden and rusty-colored eyeliners while green eyes work well with reddish tones. However, the standard black and brown shades should also always be a part of your eyeliner collection.

• Skin-Friendly: Make sure the eyeliner you choose is skin-friendly. It should be safe to apply to your eyelids without adverse effects. Always go for an eyeliner that is ophthalmologist and dermatologist-tested These eyeliners are hypoallergenic which won’t cause any damage to your eyes.

• User-Friendly: An eyeliner that glides easily should be your pick! A good eyeliner doesn’t smudge easily. With an user-friendly eyeliner, you wouldn’t mess up when applying even though you’re a beginner.

• Shape Of The Tip: The shape of the tip plays a huge role while applying eyeliner. This is especially important if you’re a beginner with makeup. A sharp or fine tip would help you create clean designs on your eyes, be it a cat eye, winged shape, or fishtail liner.

• Pigmentation: Pigments are a crucial factor to consider when choosing eyeliners. A highly pigmented eyeliner offers better coverage and is perfect for accentuating your eyes for statement-making looks. Make sure the eyeliner is highly pigmented for better results.

• Waterproof: Look for a waterproof eyeliner that stays long on your eyes and is smudge-free. A water-resistant eyeliner helps you easily apply the second layer without smudging. Waterproof eyeliners are ideal for beginners as they are less likely to mess up when applying the second layer of lining. These eyeliners perfectly stay on during hot, humid, and rainy days.

• Skin Tone: Choose a shade that would complement your skin tone and outfit. Beginners with fair skin should prefer gray, brown, and green shades while medium skin tones should use maroon and bronze shades. Shimmers look great on dark skin tones.

While these are some of the best eyeliners for beginners that can make the eyeliner journey an easier one for you, a brief guide helps you make sure you’re getting the best out of your eyeliner. Read on to find out.

How Do You Apply Eyeliner As A Beginner?

• Connect the dots
  What’s specifically challenging for most eyeliner newbies is drawing a consistent line without wobbling. If you’ve tried and failed too many times and are on the verge of giving up, it is advisable to draw dots from one corner to the other corner of the eye. Once you have a series of dots that align well, all you have to do is connect the dots for a perfect line.
• Minimal pressure
  Many beginners make the mistake of applying too much pressure on the applicator to prevent the hand from shaking. However, what this does is that it distorts the applicator’s tip, and it becomes almost impossible to draw sleek lines. As a beginner, it is best to apply minimal pressure and only exert more pressure when you’re drawing thicker lines.
• Let it glide
  A good eyeliner for beginners is one that glides on without pulling or tugging. When your eyeliner resists free movement, it results in uneven lines and tiny unfilled spaces. When you choose a gel-based eyeliner or creamy pencil or retractable eyeliner, it’s a smaller number of retrials. Liquid eyeliners are just as useful. Make it a point to use one that’s flowy and avoid using old and semi-dried liquid eyeliners.
• Flick it first
  The winged look has a hard-to-master reputation. However, if you’ve ever tried going outside in, you must know how winging it can be a cinch. If you don’t know what we’re talking about, it’s pretty simple. Start with the outer corner of the eye and draw a flick of a desirable length. Now that you have the flick in place, extend it by drawing a line or a series of dots from the outer corner to the inner corner and join them. The outcome is professional-grade winged eyeliner for beginners.
• Try pressed powder
  The real culprit that makes it difficult to apply the eyeliner is oily lids. For this, you can apply some pressed powder to your eyelids so that it absorbs the excess oil. This helps ensure that the eyeliner doesn’t escape through the fine, thin lines on the lids.
• Keep wet wipes handy
  Let’s be honest— it might take you a few tries to get your eyeliner right if you’re a beginner. To be ready for this, keep a bunch of wet wipes or a makeup remover and a cotton swab around so that you can fix your lash lines when you go wrong.

Infographic: 7 Steps To Master The Cat Eye Look

Cat eyes look alluring, but they are challenging to create. If you are a beginner who wants to adorn your eyes with cat-like flings, we are here to help. Take a look at the infographic below to learn the step-by-step process of drawing cat eyes with tape.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Which eyeliner is the easiest to apply?

While this is a matter of personal preference, many beginners agree that pencils give them more control and make them less nervous about going wrong. While there are many brands that make the perfect eyeliner for beginners, you can apply any eyeliner quickly and effortlessly as long as it glides smoothly.

Is a gel-based eyeliner good for beginners?

Contrary to how many people believe that gel eyeliners can give a tough time to beginners, they’re quite beginner-friendly. This popular belief might be a result of the fact that you have to use a separate brush for a gel-based eyeliner. However, gel eyeliners for beginners help make quick corrections and help have a relatively steadier hand when compared to liquid eyeliners.

Do you apply eyeliner before or after the foundation?

You can apply it either way. Apply foundation first and then eyeliner so that in the meantime your foundation is fully absorbed. This is the most common way to do it. However, some makeup enthusiasts hold a different view. According to them, you can also wear eye makeup before completing the base makeup so that if you have to do any corrections, you won’t have to re-do the foundation and concealer.

Is it OK to wear eyeliner every day?

Yes, it is quite common and safe to wear eyeliner every day. Using eyeliner every day does not damage your eyes; however, avoid applying it very close to the water line to prevent it from going inside your eyes resulting in burning and irritation. Plus, make sure you remove the eyeliner thoroughly at the end of the day to prevent infections.

What goes first eyeliner or mascara?

A mascara is applied after the eyeliner. It is difficult to apply eyeliner on mascara-coated lashes as the eyelids become dry and stiff. So, it is better to apply eyeliner first to ensure its smooth application.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Chaitra Krishnan is a fashion and makeup enthusiast with a passion for reviewing makeup products and keeping up with the latest trends in the beauty industry. On her quest to find the best eyeliners for beginners on the market, she researched multiple options and checked numerous user reviews online. The highly-rated products that make up this list are formulated for long-lasting, smudge-resistant wear, and easy application.

Related Articles

Best Waterproof Eyeliners You Absolutely Need This Year!Best NYX Eyeliners That Even Beginners Can Get RightBest Non-Smudging EyelinersBest Eyeliners In The World

Was this article helpful?

Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Lorrie PearsonProfessional Makeup Artist

     

Lorrie Pearson is a professional makeup artist who has been creating her signature natural makeup looks for 20+ years. She began her career working behind the cosmetics counter that helped her strengthen her skills in application.

Read full bio of Lorrie Pearson

Srijani Roy Chowdhury Associate Commerce Editor

 

Srijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant.

Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury

Srijita DeCommerce Writer

Srijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world.

Read full bio of Srijita De

Krati DarakAssociate Commerce Editor

Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.

Read full bio of Krati Darak