Best Eyeliners in 2025
Eyeliners are a staple in any makeup routine, offering the power to define, enhance, and transform your eyes. From subtle definition to dramatic wings, the right eyeliner can elevate your look instantly. However, the sheer variety—pencils, gels, liquids, and even powders—can make choosing the perfect product overwhelming. This buying guide cuts through the noise by providing a curated list of the best eyeliners on the market, based on extensive research and analysis. We'll explore the different eyeliner types, their unique benefits, and how to select the best one for your needs. Whether you are looking for a precise cat-eye, a smudged smoky look, or an everyday definition, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make the right choice.
What's In This Guide
- •Our Selection Methodology
- •Selection Criteria
- •Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner - Best Overall
- •Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner - Best for Precision
- •Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil - Best Pencil Eyeliner
- •Lancôme Grandiôse Liner - Best Innovative Design
- •Pat McGrath Labs Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner - Best Luxury
- •Conclusion & Recommendations
- •Frequently Asked Questions
Our Selection Methodology
Our selection process involved a comprehensive data-driven approach, leveraging advanced AI algorithms. We analyzed thousands of data points, including user reviews from major e-commerce platforms and beauty blogs, expert opinions from makeup artists and beauty editors, technical specifications provided by manufacturers, and performance metrics gathered from independent testing labs. The AI algorithms were programmed to identify top performers based on pre-defined criteria: ease of application, longevity, pigment, and overall user satisfaction. This data was then processed to identify the eyeliners that consistently ranked highest across all key performance indicators. The AI also performed sentiment analysis on user reviews to gauge overall customer experiences. Finally, eyeliners were cross-referenced against additional sources to confirm product information and ensure the validity of our recommendations. This rigorous process ensured that the final selections represent the best eyeliners available and best suited for specific needs, considering different preferences and skill levels.
Selection Criteria
Ease of Application
How user-friendly the eyeliner is, considering its formula, applicator, and overall design. This is crucial for both beginners and those looking for a quick application process.
Longevity and Smudge Resistance
The ability of the eyeliner to stay in place throughout the day without smudging, fading, or transferring. This is particularly important for those with oily eyelids or who require long-lasting wear.
Pigmentation and Color Intensity
The richness and depth of the eyeliner's color, influencing its ability to create a visible and impactful look. This includes opacity and the range of available shades.
Formula and Finish
The texture and type of the eyeliner (e.g., pencil, gel, liquid, or powder) and the resulting finish (matte, satin, or metallic). Different formulas offer different effects and levels of control.
Versatility
The eyeliner's adaptability to different makeup styles and techniques, ranging from a subtle daytime look to a bold, dramatic evening appearance.
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Top 5 Eyeliners in 2025
Pros
- Highly pigmented and long-lasting
- Precise application with fine-tipped applicator
- Waterproof and smudge-proof formula
- Versatile for creating various eye looks
Cons
- Can dry out if not stored properly.
- Requires a steady hand for precise lines.
Key Specifications
The Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner is nearly universally praised for its precision, longevity, and intense pigment. Its fine-tipped felt applicator allows for effortless creation of thin or thick lines, perfect for both beginners and experienced users. The waterproof formula ensures that your eyeliner stays put throughout the day, resisting smudging or flaking, even in humid conditions or on oily eyelids. The rich, deep black shade provides exceptional impact, enhancing any eye color beautifully. While the felt tip can dry out if uncapped for extended periods, proper storage will help extend its life. This eyeliner excels across all our main criteria, making it consistently a top pick.
Pros
- Smooth, gel formula for easy application
- High pigmentation for intense color payoff
- Long-wearing and smudge-proof
- Versatile for creating a variety of eye looks
Cons
- Requires a separate brush for application.
- May require a bit of practice to master.
Key Specifications
The Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner stands out for its smooth and creamy gel formula, delivering exceptional color payoff and a long-lasting, smudge-proof finish. The gel consistency allows for customizable lines: from thin, natural defines to bold, dramatic wings. The product comes in a range of colors, providing versatility for different eye makeup looks. While it requires a separate brush, the control offered makes it a favorite of professional makeup artists and enthusiasts. The formula glides on smoothly and is highly pigmented, ensuring a rich, intense color. Its long-lasting and waterproof formula is a reliable choice for day-to-night wear or for those prone to smudging.
Pros
- Easy to apply and blend
- Wide range of shades and finishes
- Long-wearing and smudge-resistant
- Versatile for multiple eye makeup looks
Cons
- Less precise than liquid or gel, with a softer, more natural look
- May require sharpening more frequently.
Key Specifications
The Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil excels in providing ease of application, a wide variety of shades, and blendability. The creamy formula glides smoothly across the eyelid, making it ideal for both beginners and those who prefer a softer, more diffused look. It's designed to last, providing a long-wearing, smudge-resistant finish. The pencil can also be used in the waterline and for creating a smoky eye. The pencil is versatile and creates a variety of makeup looks from the natural everyday look to a bold, smoky eye.
Pros
- Innovative design for easy application
- Precise and highly pigmented
- Long-lasting and water-resistant
- Excellent for beginners
Cons
- Can be difficult to remove (requiring specific makeup removers)
- Not as flexible as liquid or pencil eyeliners
Key Specifications
The Lancôme Grandiôse Liner presents a unique swan-neck design for unparalleled ease of application. Its innovative applicator allows the user to reach the lash line with precision, making it easy to achieve stunning cat-eye looks and winged liners, even for beginners. The formula is highly pigmented and long-lasting, promising a smudge-proof and flake-free finish. Offering rich, vibrant color, it is easy to create both delicate lines and more dramatic looks. This liner excels in ease of use and is exceptional for someone looking for a high-performance liner.
Pros
- Ultra-fine precision brush for crisp lines
- Highly pigmented for intense looks
- Long-lasting and waterproof formula
- Professional quality
Cons
- Requires skillful application
- More expensive than other kinds of pencil eyeliners
Key Specifications
The Pat McGrath Labs Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner offers a luxurious, professional-grade option. Known for its exceptional pigment and ultra-fine brush tip, this liquid eyeliner delivers precise, intense lines with ease. It's a favorite among professional makeup artists for its ability to create everything from delicate, natural looks to bold graphic lines with unmatched precision; also renowned for its long-lasting and smudge-proof formula, it provides hours of flawless wear that withstands the rigors of daily life. Despite its higher price point, the superior quality and performance make it a worthy investment for makeup enthusiasts seeking the best in precision and longevity.
Conclusion
Choosing the right eyeliner can significantly enhance your eye makeup look. This guide highlights the top eyeliners based on performance, ease of use, and user satisfaction, helping you find the perfect product whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro. Consider the style you want to create, your skill level, and your preferred application method when selecting your eyeliner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of eyeliner is easiest for beginners to use?
Pencil eyeliners are generally the easiest to use for beginners due to their forgiving application and blendability. Gel eyeliners offer greater precision with a brush, while liquid eyeliners require more practice for a sharp, clean line. Consider the look you're going for (smudged, precise) and your experience level.
How do I choose an eyeliner that won't smudge?
For a long-lasting, smudge-proof look, consider waterproof or water-resistant formulas. These are especially important for oily eyelids or humid environments. Always check the product descriptions for 'waterproof' or 'long-wear' claims.
How can I prep my eyelids for eyeliner application?
Clean your eyelids with a gentle cleanser and apply an eyeshadow primer. This creates a smooth base and helps the eyeliner adhere better, preventing smudging and extending its wear time. Setting your eyeliner with a matching eyeshadow can also increase longevity.