Best Eye Liner Pencils – Top 5 Picks & Review

Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought, “My eyes need a little something extra?” That little something often comes in the form of eyeliner! But stepping into the makeup aisle to find the perfect eyeliner pencil can feel like navigating a maze. So many brands, so many colors, and so many promises! It’s easy to get overwhelmed and wonder which one will actually stay put, glide on smoothly, and make your eyes pop without smudging all over your face.

Choosing the right eyeliner pencil shouldn’t be a stressful ordeal. We understand the frustration of trying a pencil that tugs at your delicate eyelid or one that disappears before lunchtime. That’s why we’re here to help! By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident about picking an eyeliner pencil that fits your needs and your style. Get ready to discover the secrets to achieving flawless eye looks every single time.

Our Top 5 Eye Liner Pencils Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Eye Liner Pencils Detailed Reviews

1. Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner

Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, Smudge-Proof, Eye Makeup with Built-In Sharpener, 201 Black, 2 pack

Rating: 8.7/10

Get ready for gorgeous eyes that last! The Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner in 201 Black is your new go-to for stunning, long-lasting eye makeup. This two-pack ensures you’re always ready to create the perfect look, from a subtle everyday flick to a bold, dramatic statement. It’s designed to stay put, so you can focus on your day without worrying about your eyeliner.

What We Like:

  • The color stays rich and looks freshly applied all day long.
  • It’s waterproof, smudge-proof, and transfer-proof, so it won’t budge.
  • You can wear it for up to 24 hours!
  • It glides on smoothly for easy application, creating defined lines.
  • The built-in sharpener keeps your pencil tip perfectly pointed.
  • A smudger is included to help you blend for different looks.
  • It’s ophthalmologist-tested and safe for your waterline.
  • It feels comfortable to wear, even for long periods.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While the black is classic, more shade options might be nice for those who want to experiment with different colors.
  • Some users might find the built-in sharpener a little small for extensive sharpening.

This Revlon eyeliner really delivers on its promises of long wear and easy application. It’s a dependable choice for anyone who wants their eye makeup to look great from morning to night.

2. Wonderskin Eyeliner Pencil

Wonderskin Eyeliner Pencil, 1440 Longwear Deep Black Eyeliner Pencil - Waterproof, Sharpenable & Smudge Proof

Rating: 8.8/10

The Wonderskin 1440 Longwear Deep Black Eyeliner Pencil promises a lot: 24-hour wear, intense color, and a smudge-proof finish. This versatile pencil can be used for sharp, precise lines or blended out for a soft, smoky look. It’s designed to be waterproof and transfer-proof, meaning your eye makeup should stay put all day, no matter what. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free, which is a big plus for many users.

What We Like:

  • It really does last for a very long time, up to 24 hours.
  • The color is deep and rich, making your eyes stand out.
  • It doesn’t smudge or transfer, so your makeup looks fresh all day.
  • You can sharpen it to a fine point for detailed work or smudge it for a softer style.
  • It’s great for both eyeliner and eyeshadow.
  • The formula is gentle and doesn’t pull on your eyelid during application.
  • It’s a vegan and cruelty-free product.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The “extensive range of colors” mentioned might not be readily available in the deep black version.
  • While it’s sharpenable, some users might prefer a twist-up pencil for convenience.

Overall, the Wonderskin 1440 Eyeliner Pencil is a strong contender for anyone seeking long-lasting, high-impact eye color. Its ability to withstand smudging and transfer makes it a reliable choice for busy days and special events.

3. 10 Pcs Gel Eyeliner Pencil Set

10 Pcs Gel Eyeliner Pencil Set, Black Waterline Waterproof Eye Liner Eyeshadow Stick for Women, Cream Long Lasting Smudge Proof Eyeliner Pen Pack, Ultra Pigmented Matte Makeup Pen with Sharpener-Set A

Rating: 8.8/10

Unleash your inner artist with the 10 Pcs Gel Eyeliner Pencil Set. This amazing set offers a range of colors and uses, making it perfect for any look you want to create. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle, natural vibe or a bold, dramatic statement, these liners have you covered.

What We Like:

  • You get 10 pencils in beautiful, matte colors, including classic black and rich browns.
  • The colors are super bright and show up well on your eyelids.
  • The creamy formula goes on smoothly and you can build up the color easily.
  • It’s waterproof and won’t smudge, so your makeup stays perfect all day.
  • You can use it as eyeliner, eyeshadow, or even to fill in your eyebrows and line your lips.
  • Each pencil has a built-in sharpener for a perfect point every time.
  • The formula is gentle and safe for sensitive eyes, and it’s never tested on animals.
  • It makes a wonderful gift for friends and family.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The set includes five colors, and while there are options for a classic black set or a colorful mix, having more individual color choices within a single 10-piece set might be appealing to some.

This eyeliner set offers fantastic value and versatility. It’s a must-have for anyone who loves experimenting with their makeup.

4. wet n wild Color Icon Kohl Eyeliner Pencil – Rich Hyper-Pigmented Color

Rating: 9.1/10

Get ready for dramatic eyes with the wet n wild Color Icon Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in “Baby’s Got Black.” This liner packs a serious punch with its super-dark, rich color. It glides on like a dream, feeling smooth and creamy. You can use it for anything, from a subtle line to a bold smoky eye.

What We Like:

  • Super-pigmented color that really shows up.
  • Goes on smoothly and feels creamy.
  • Works for lots of different makeup styles.
  • Lasts a long time without smudging.
  • It’s cruelty-free, so no animals were harmed.
  • Loved by famous people and makeup pros.
  • Great price for amazing quality.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Sometimes the very tip can break if you press too hard.
  • May need a little touch-up after a very long day.

This liner is a fantastic tool for any makeup bag. It’s easy to use and gives you professional-looking results without a high price tag.

5. Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner

Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, Smudge-Proof, Eye Makeup with Built-In Sharpener, 203 Brown, 0.01 oz

Rating: 9.4/10

Ready for eyeliner that actually stays put? The Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner in 203 Brown promises bold color that lasts. This pencil is designed to be waterproof and smudge-proof, so your eye makeup looks great from morning to night. It even has a built-in sharpener to keep your lines precise.

What We Like:

  • The rich color stays on all day. It doesn’t transfer, smudge, or fade.
  • You can wear it for up to 24 hours, so it’s great for long days.
  • It glides on easily and creates sharp lines. You can make your look subtle or dramatic.
  • The built-in sharpener is super handy. It helps you get a perfect point every time.
  • It comes in 12 different shades with matte and shimmer finishes.
  • It’s tested by eye doctors and is comfortable to wear, even on your waterline.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The 0.01 oz size might feel a little small for some users, meaning you’ll need to replace it more often.
  • While the built-in sharpener is convenient, some users find it can create a bit of a mess.

This eyeliner is a solid choice for anyone who wants long-lasting, easy-to-apply eye makeup. It delivers on its promise of staying power and offers versatility for different looks.

Your Guide to Finding the Best Eye Liner Pencils

Eye liner pencils are a makeup bag essential. They help define your eyes and make your look pop. Picking the right one makes a big difference. This guide will help you find the perfect eye liner pencil for you.

What to Look For: Key Features

When you shop for eye liner pencils, keep these important things in mind.

  • Pigment Payoff: This means how dark and rich the color is. A good pencil gives you a strong color with just one swipe.
  • Longevity: How long does the liner stay on your eyes? You want a pencil that won’t smudge or fade throughout the day.
  • Ease of Application: A great pencil glides on smoothly. It shouldn’t tug or skip. This makes drawing lines easier.
  • Waterproof/Smudge-proof: Many pencils offer these features. They help your liner last through tears or sweat.
  • Sharpener Compatibility: Some pencils need a special sharpener. Others work with standard ones. Think about what’s easiest for you.
Important Materials

The stuff inside your eye liner pencil matters.

  • Waxes: Beeswax or carnauba wax help the pencil hold its shape. They also help it glide on smoothly.
  • Oils: Oils like castor oil or mineral oil make the pencil softer. They help it apply without pulling your skin.
  • Pigments: These give the pencil its color. Good pigments create vibrant shades.
  • Preservatives: These keep the pencil safe from germs. They help it last longer.

What Makes a Pencil Great (or Not So Great)?

Lots of things can make an eye liner pencil really good or not so good.

Factors That Improve Quality:
  • Smooth Formula: A creamy formula glides on easily. It doesn’t feel dry or drag your eyelid.
  • Good Pigmentation: Deep, rich colors look best. You shouldn’t have to go over the line many times.
  • Long-Wearing: A high-quality pencil stays put. It won’t smudge or disappear quickly.
  • Easy to Sharpen: If it’s a wooden pencil, it should sharpen well. The tip should be strong, not crumbly.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
  • Dry or Waxy Formula: This can make the pencil hard to apply. It might skip or feel sticky.
  • Weak Pigmentation: You might get a faint line. This means you need to press harder, which isn’t good for your skin.
  • Smudging or Fading: If your liner moves around or disappears, it’s not a good sign.
  • Difficult to Sharpen: If the pencil breaks when you try to sharpen it, it’s frustrating.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you use an eye liner pencil depends on your style and needs.

  • Everyday Looks: A simple line along your lash line can open up your eyes. A soft brown or black pencil is great for this.
  • Dramatic Looks: For a smoky eye, you can smudge a black or grey pencil. Winged liner also uses pencils for a sharp look.
  • Waterline: Some pencils are designed for the inner rim of your eye (the waterline). These are usually softer and gentler.
  • Tightlining: This is drawing a line on your upper waterline. It makes your lashes look fuller.

A good eye liner pencil is versatile. It can be used for subtle definition or bold statements. Think about what you want to achieve with your makeup.


Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Liner Pencils

Here are some common questions people have about eye liner pencils.

Q: What is the best way to sharpen an eye liner pencil?

A: Use a sharpener made for cosmetic pencils. If it’s a wooden pencil, sharpen it slowly. This prevents it from breaking. Electric sharpeners work well too.

Q: Can I use any eye liner pencil on my waterline?

A: No. Only use pencils labeled as “waterline safe” or “for inner rim.” Other pencils can irritate your eyes.

Q: How do I prevent my eye liner from smudging?

A: Use a primer before applying. Also, choose a waterproof or smudge-proof formula. Setting your liner with a matching eyeshadow can help too.

Q: What’s the difference between a pencil and a gel liner?

A: Pencils are solid and easy to use. Gel liners are creamier and often applied with a brush. They can give a more intense line.

Q: How long should an eye liner pencil last?

A: If you use it often, it might last a few months. If you use it less, it could last up to a year. Always check the expiration date.

Q: Can I use eye liner if I have sensitive eyes?

A: Yes. Look for formulas that are hypoallergenic and free of harsh chemicals. Test a small amount on your hand first.

Q: What is a “kohl” pencil?

A: Kohl pencils are often very soft and blendable. They are great for smoky looks and are traditionally used on the waterline.

Q: How do I get a sharp wing with an eye liner pencil?

A: Use a sharpened pencil. Draw a small flick first, then connect it to your lash line. Practice makes perfect!

Q: Can I use an eye liner pencil as eyeshadow?

A: Yes. You can smudge a pencil all over your lid for a wash of color. Then, set it with powder so it doesn’t crease.

Q: How do I know when my eye liner pencil has gone bad?

A: If the texture changes, it smells funny, or it starts to irritate your eyes, it’s time to toss it.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

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