15 Best Makeup Artist-Approved Eyeliner Pencils For Dazzling Eyes In 2024
Line your eyes with these pigments and catch everyone’s attention at the party.
Mary Ajaka is a celebrity makeup artist with 15 years of experience in TV/media, editorial, and bridal makeup. She has a keen eye for detail and understands that each face is unique, which is why she uses different makeup techniques tailored to the individual.
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Experience: 3 yearsSrijani 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.
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Experience: 3 yearsRajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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Experience: 2 yearsSrijita 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.
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Finding the best pencil eyeliner means looking for one that has intense pigmentation, lasts a long time, and is smudge-proof, but this can be a time-consuming process defined by trial and error. Pencil eyeliners are one of the most common products made by every other upcoming or established firm in the field of makeup and beauty. When it comes to efficiency, however, it’s a different scenario. Because eyeliner pencils are so popular, finding the best one might feel like quite a challenge.
For decades, eyeliners have been treasured and used for a variety of ever-evolving looks. The sad part is that most eyeliners make a lot of promises but deliver little to no results. And even though it may not seem substantial, you do regret the purchase of below-quality eyeliner as that results in the loss of both money and a product. Smoothness, pigmentation, longevity, and any possibility of irritation or allergic reaction from the product are the first few things to look for in an eyeliner before purchasing one. To help you sort through the options, we have come up with this list of the 15 best pencil eyeliners you must try!
In This Article
15 Best Eyeliner Pencils For Dazzling Eyes – 2024
1. NYX Professional Makeup Retractable Eye Liner Pencil – Black
Twist-up or retractable eyeliner pencils are blessings in disguise. With no need to sharpen them or have uneven nibs, these liners last a long time without any fuss, as per numerous positive reviews. NYX’s retractable eyeliner pencil provides you with effortless application and much control over precision on your waterline or lids. For whatever occasion, you can definitely rely on this eyeliner as it is waterproof, richly pigmented, and lasts all day long. The liner is smudge-proof and fights sweat, rain, or tears, although it is an incredibly creamy formula. We recommend using this before applying mascara or after a coat of mascara on the waterline. Additionally, this product is celebrity-endorsed by Ashley Everett and Shayla Mitchell.
- Cruelty-free
- Glides smoothly
- Waterproof
- Lasts all day
- Precise application
- Ideal for waterline or tight-lining
- May not be not hypoallergenic
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 82,828 rave reviews on Amazon.
2. L’Oreal Paris 16 HR Infallible Never Fail Eyeliner – Black
Create a classic eye look or go bold with L’oreal’s Never Fail mechanical eyeliner. Reviewers are hyped that this liner is supremely pigmented and lasts for up to 16 hours. The liner is packed with candelilla wax, olive oil, and echium plantagineum seed oil that helps it glide on the skin seamlessly while providing ample moisturization and staying fade-proof. Got oily eyelids? Don’t worry! This liner will stay put throughout the day, come moisturizer, sweat, or oil secretion. It also comes with a built-in sharpener, which makes it easy to sharpen and retain the pointy fine-tip for that perfect cat-eye look.
- Lasts up to 16 hours
- Infused with candelilla wax, olive oil, and echium plantagineum seed oil
- Smooth
- Built-in sharpener
- May take time to wipe off
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 19,977 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
3. Rimmel Scandaleyes 24 HR Wear Waterproof Kohl Kaja – Black
Gel eyeliners take the prize home when it comes to being absolutely smudge-proof, well-pigmented, long-lasting, and maintaining crisp and sharp lines, making them a favorite in the field of makeup artistry. This quick-drying eyeliner is the perfect match for any long, late-night shoots. Infused with coconut oil and aloe leaf extracts to keep your eyelids from drying out and lasts up to 24 hours while locking moisture and hydration. Its rich, pigmented-packed formula does not smudge, smear, or run down. With the utmost control, you can let your creativity flow and create unique lines on your eyelids.
- Contains coconut oil and aloe leaf extract
- Lasts up to 24 hours
- Easy to apply
- Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested
- Safe for sensitive eyes
- Contains talc
Quick TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 24,491 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
NYX Professional Makeup Retractable Eye Liner Pencil - Black | L'Oreal Paris 16 HR Infallible Never Fail Eyeliner - BlackRimmel Scandaleyes 24 HR Wear Waterproof Kohl Kaja - Black | title3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Black | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 0.25 x 0.25 x 5.62 inches | 7.06 x 1.9 x 0.35 inches | 5.47 x 0.31 x 0.31 inches |
| Weight | 0.35 Ounces | 0.32 Ounces | 0.32 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 82,828 | 19,977 | 24,491 |
| Price | $4.99 | $7.75 | $3.99 |
4. REVLON ColorStay Eyeliner – Black
The best thing about a long-wearing eyeliner is that they stay on hours later without fading or smudging and being waterproof is just the icing on the cake, delivering exceptional results. Glide on Revlon ColorStay eyeliner hassle-free that adds a bit of spice and drama to your look and lasts up to 16 hours as though applied freshly. Its waterproof and lightweight formula does not smear, fade, or budge while maintaining a clean and creaseless line on the lids. The liner is in a retractable tube preventing any breakage, the built-in sharpener helps maintain a sharp nib for each time you need a crisp wing. Attached on the other end is a smudging tip for when you need to add a subtle smokey effect.
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Lightweight
- Waterproof eyeliner
- Lasts up to 16 hours
- Comes with a sharpener and smudging tip attached
- Some may find it slightly waxy
"The eyeliner is highly pigmented with a decent wear time. It glides on easily without tugging the skin on my lids. The best part is that it did not smudge even when I was sweating profusely. Overall, I like this product a lot."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 17,990 reviews claiming its efficacy.
5. COVERGIRL Perfect Blend Eyeliner Pencil – Basic Black
Covergirl presents their Perfect Blend Eyeliner Pencil and even in its retro packaging the pleasing twist lies in having a smudging tip attached at the opposite end. The no-tug liner allows you to create either a sharp, fine line or let the fiery, bold and dramatic eye-trend take over. The blendable eyeliner has a creamy texture that avoids any tugging or wrinkly, dry effect Infused with a ton of hydrogenated oils like castor, mineral, kernel, and vegetable, the eyeliner is also water-resistant. You can now smoothen harsh lines to give just the right amount of depth and definition with the blending tip or sharpen the pencil to give you pointed statement-making wings.
- Cruelty-free
- Highly pigmented
- Smoothening tip helps blend in the color
- Smudger included
- May not offer long-lasting wear
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 14,006 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.
6. Maybelline New York TattooStudio Gel Pencil – Deep Onyx
Another contender in the race of lengthening its stay on the lids is the TattooStudio Gel Pencil by Maybelline. The eyeliner promises a total no budge, smudge, or smear for a total of 36 hours. The gel formula smoothly defines the designs you wish to draw with its intensely pigmented technology. Say hello to your new best buy if you’re oily skinned as this eyeliner has your back and keeps your eye makeup stay fresh. Pair it with a nude eyeshadow or go solo with a sharp stroke, this statement-making eyeliner will stay just where you drew on and add zing to your persona.
- Lasts up to 36 hours
- Waterproof, sweat resistant, smudge proof
- Gel formulation eyeliner pencil
- Gentle on the scalp
- Boosts hair moisture and reduces frizz
- Leaves hair soft and shiny upon washing
- May not be ideal for waterlining
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 28,093 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
7. Almay Eyeliner Pencil Top Of The Line
The Almay Eyeliner Pencil Top Of The Line accurately traces the lashline and delivers rich color. It is made with skin-loving ingredients such as vitamin E, which nourishes the eyes and gives off a natural finish.The built-in sharpener of the pencil ensures that your lines are never chunky, blurry or thick. Additionally, this hypoallergenic formula is suitable for sensitive eyes and is easy to remove without the need for any harsh rubbing. Flick it upwards from the bottom lashline to create an effortless wing and add a fun element to your look.
- Water-resistant
- Smudge-Proof
- Nourishing formula
- Comes with a built-in sharpener
- Hypoallergenic
- Ophthalmologist-tested
None
8. Neutrogena Nourishing Eye Liner – Cosmic Black
Now if you’re on the search for a product that bridges the gap between laboratory and nature, here’s Neutrogena’s Nourishing Eye Liner. Infused with the goodness of olive oil and cupuacu seed butter, the liner is also approved and deemed safe-to-use by ophthalmologists. This eyeliner slides on the eye skin easily and does not budge throughout the day or dry out! Perfected with a contoured smudger at the tip, it helps create an even outer-V shape to your look.
- Hypoallergenic
- Ophthalmologist tested
- Long-wear eyeliner
- Has a contoured smudging tip and a built-in sharpener
- Creamy texture glides on easy
- Multiple layering required for opaque color payoff
"Neutrogena's eyeliner has always complemented my smokey eye looks. It is gentle on my eyes and does not require sharpening. I also use it as an eyebrow pencil because it glides on easily on my creasy skin around the eyes."
9. Julep When Pencil Met Gel Eyeliner – Golden Olive Shimmer
What we have here is one for those who admire the subtle hints of tints. This liner from Julep, a brand known for no animal testing, promises a fresh, youthful look with its marvelous lineup of shades. Shimmery, glittery, and highly pigmented, this eyeliner will set your daytime makeup in place. This transfer-proof product is made with specially blended wax that helps glide on smoothly instead of being grouped with parabens and sulfates. You can also use this eyeliner as an eyeshadow to pop up your eyes or as a brow highlighter to bring forth attention.
- Long-wear eyeliner up to 10 hours
- Free from parabens and SLS
- Cruelty-free
- Long-lasting formula
- Waterproof
- May not suit all skin tones
10. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil – Perversion – Matte
When it comes to standing out of the ordinary, Urban Decay cosmetics proudly wins the prize. The 24/7 Glide-on Eye Pencil adds a pop of color to the eyes and it not only pauses the rave around regular cult-classic black liners, but also makes you look unique.
It is infused with vitamin E, jojoba oil, and cottonseed oil — healthy ingredients that aim to nourish and moisturize the eye area. Apart from that, this liner also comes in many shades and textures. The liner is also cruelty-free and vegan. All you need is a sharpener to sharpen the tips of these liners in order to provide you with absolute precision and control.
- Free from parabens, SLS, and phthalates
- Cruelty-free
- Available in many shades
- Intense color payoff
- It may tug at mature skin with fine lines and wrinkles
11. l.f. Satin Eyeliner Pencil – Black
Dry skinned people often tend to find it difficult to find an eyeliner that delivers a creamy and butter-esque sensation. e.l.f’s satin eyeliner pencil is here to convince you that their blend of wax, castor, and mineral oils is all they claim to serve — which is a satin finish by the end of the smooth application. Its color payoff and texture are a no-joke. Ideal to be applied along the lashlines, a gentle stroke can go a long way in providing you a well-hydrated eye look. Plus, it’s a no-animal test product, so you can pick this guilt-free.
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Satin finish
- Does not contain parabens or phthalates
- In-built sharpener
- May not be as long-lasting
12. Palladio Eyeliner Pencil – Midnight Blue
We all love a good makeup product that contains a bit of nature’s touch in the formulation, it makes the whole experience all the more alluring. Palladio’s Eyeliner pencil is enriched with rosemary extracts and sunflower seed oil — both that prevent any irritation or clogging of pores. For extra hydration and suppleness, the liner is formulated with hydrogenated coconut and palm kernel. It is built like a classic eyeliner pencil and you would need to sharpen it, however, the lasting ability of this product is highly commendable. The shade Midnight Blue is a beautiful shade to spruce up your daily eyeliner routine that instantly makes your eyes look more awake and vibrant! You check the several positive reviews online to make an informed decision.
- Free from parabens
- Not tested on animals
- Available in many shades
- Moisturizing
- May not be the best choice for waterlining
13. Artisan L’uxe Bio-Beauty Velvet Jumbo Eyeliner Pencil – Shameless
With its subtle glow and high pigment, you can use this jumbo liner to create sultry, graphic, or bold eye looks. Infused with hyaluronic acid and ceramides that help retain moisture in the skin, this eyeliner is ideal for those aging beautifully. However, this eyeliner can be used by most people because of its inclusion of natural extracts and oils that maintain the nourishment of the skin. The pencil comes with an in-built sharpener and a smudging tip for when you need to turn the simple stroke of line into a lovely eyeshadow shade.
- Cruelty-free
- Easy to use
- Water-resistant
- Smudge-proof
- Not meant for prolonged usage, might fade
"This eyeliner stays put, without smudging or smearing, even in sweltering heat. It can also be blended for a shadowy effect or a smoky eye look. It glides on smoothly without irritating my eyes or the delicate skin around it."
14. Pure Ziva Pencil Eyeliner – Navy Sailor Blue
Blue eyeliner has never looked this pretty! Get your hands on this natural ingredient-infused eyeliner that is packed with intense pigmentation. Pure Ziva brings to you a smudge-proof, water-resistant, fade-resistant, and long-lasting eyeliner meant for both the waterline and the lash line. Create mystical, bold drawings on your eyelids and forget about having them faded away. Those with sensitive eyes can now relax and deck up their eyes as this liner is hypoallergenic and tested and approved by dermatologists and ophthalmologists.
- Cruelty-free
- Smudge-proof eyeliner
- Long-lasting eyeliner
- Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested
- Contains natural plant extracts
- Formula may dry up quickly when not stored properly
15. LA. Colors Eyeliner/ Brow Pencil- Black
Our last contender of this article is L.A. Colors with their double offer of an eyeliner and brow pencil. This eyeliner glides smoothly and offers deep pigmentation. Easy to use and portable, the eyeliner is definitely worth the hype. It will not budge and is best for tightlining and also waterline areas. An absolute challenger to high-end brands, this liner can also be used to create a bold color smokey eye.
- Smooth formula
- Affordable
- Comes in 15 shades
- Does not break or fall off
- May not offer long-lasting wear
"This eyeliner is well-pigmented and lasts all day long. It goes on smoothly but might smudge or smear on oily lids. It also helps define my eyebrows as naturally as possible."
As mentioned before, eyeliners are possibly the easiest to find in the market since every brand out there has one or two of its own with a few tweaks here and there in the ingredients list or create an entirely new product with newer elements. Since everyone’s needs differ, read further to know a few things that you should keep in mind before buying an eyeliner.
How To Choose The Best Eyeliner Pencil
- Read the ingredients list
A full ingredients list is always a bonus for a consumer, especially when it comes to expertly crafted products. Search up the following items on the product packaging or description and avoid the products that contain them: DMDM hydantoin, formaldehydes, caparabens, Bak, carbon black, and sometimes carnauba wax.
- Test out the softness
If possible, swatch the products before buying. The more soft an eyeliner is, the less harsh and painless it will be to line your eyes as they are the most sensitive areas.
- Color
Break the monotony, experiment with different shades and colors! Opt for colorful eyeliners and decide on what looks best on you. Those with brown eyes can get away with any color but will also do well to choose colors like deep browns or golden. For hazel eyes, a brown or a green shade will work wonders. Those with gray eyes should look for green, brown, and blue whereas those with blue eyes should try taupes and earthy tones.
How To Apply An Eyeliner Pencil?
- With eyeliner pencils, you have the freedom to draw on your lids the way you desire. However, basic tips on applying eyeliner dictates firstly drawing on the lid, closest to the lashline. Then, to tight-line, pull up the eyelid taut to spot the flakey areas where the eyeliner didn’t reach and carefully fill them in. Be aware not to accidentally poke your eyes.
- Never use a blunt eyeliner, make sure you are using a cosmetic grade sharpener before you use an eyeliner pencil. Oftentimes, if your pencil tends to be wooden, the wood chips may tug or irritate the eyes.
Infographic:Common Eyeliner Pencil Application Mistakes To Avoid
A perfectly drawn eyeliner amps up the entire look and offers the much-needed definition to your eyes. Even a small mistake might make the eye and face look dull and untidy. Check out the infographic below for some common eyeliner pencil application mistakes that we can avoid. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
When it comes to bringing life to your eye makeup and making your eyes look expressive with just a streak, these pencil eyeliners can be your best bet. They offer intense pigmentation and are long-lasting and smudge-proof. In addition, the ones mentioned above are free from harsh chemicals, glide smoothly, and allow precise application. The NYX Professional Makeup Retractable Eye Liner Pencil in “black” is a great smudge-proof option, while the REVLON ColorStay Eyeliner in “black” offers a long-lasting and waterproof formula. The Maybelline New York TattooStudio Gel Pencil in “deep onyx” is a gel-based formula with intense color payoff. So, whether you want a smokey eye effect or just a simple kohl-eye look, these richly pigmented eye pencils are the way to go. However, before choosing the best eyeliner pencil for yourself, you should go through the ingredients list, swatch the product, and see which color options complement your eyes the most. Also, avoid using a blunt eyeliner pencil if you want a defined and sharp look.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Srijani Roy Chowdhury, is very passionate about makeup. She loves to read, write, and experiment with different makeup looks. She has carefully researched the different eyeliners and checked several online reviews to compile the list of the best pencil eyeliners for expressive eyes. These eye makeup products are not only designed with smudge-proof and highly pigmented formulas but also last longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is gel or pencil eyeliner better?
Both kinds of eyeliners can do the job. However, a gel liner has a thicker consistency and provides more staying power and control of how you want to draw on your liner. Gel liners are also great for tightlining
Can you use an eyeliner pencil on your top lid?
Yes, you can use an eyeliner pencil on your top lid, given you do plan to layer it over with another round. Eyeliner pencils — when sharp — can also be used to create fantastic cat eyes.
Is eyeliner pencil better than liquid eyeliner?
This depends on the type of eye makeup you wish to create. Liquid eyeliners are usually more pigmented and help give you a sharp winged look. However, you can also achieve the same using a pencil eyeliner but the longevity of the two products could differ.
How long does eyeliner pencil last?
When you buy an eyeliner pencil, make sure to check for longevity claims like 12 hours or 16 hours. If they’re not provided, a simple eyeliner could last between 5 to 8 hours depending on your skin type and also what ingredients go into the making of the product.
Does eyeliner pencil expire?
Yes, like every cosmetic item, eyeliner pencils have a shelf life of about 2 years.
How can you sharpen an eyeliner pencil?
Just how you would sharpen a regular pencil only with the exception of using a cosmetic sharpener. Clean the sharpener and slowly yet carefully turn the pencil in a clockwise motion.
Is it safe to use eyeliner on the lash line or waterline?
The eyes are probably one of the most sensitive parts of the human body, and yes, your worries about using them on the waterline or on the inner lash line or even on the top eyelid are valid. To put your mind at ease, yes, it is absolutely safe to use eyeliner as most companies who manufacture them take into consideration the basic things to prevent any negative outcomes. Though, that’s not to say that you should not be wary of the ingredients that work well or don’t with you. If in the event should you feel any sort of reaction to an eyeliner, we strongly suggest you wash your eyes immediately.
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