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10 Best Eyeliner Pencils 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

URBAN DECAY 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil - Smudge-Proof, Long-Lasting, Transfer-Proof, Up to 16HR Wear, Smooth No-Tug Formula, Perversion (Matte Blackest Black) - 0.04 oz

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,386
Formula
Color
Ease of Use

Most important from
13126 reviews

Formula
This eyeliner goes on smooth and stays put, providing a natural look without any smearing or unevenness.
Color
Applying the liner is effortless, and the color is exceptional.
Ease of Use
The glide is perfect - not too thick nor too thin, eliminating the need to pull on the eyelid during application.

The Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil in 'Perversion' is a standout product for those seeking a versatile and reliable eyeliner. One of its major strengths lies in its award-winning, long-lasting, and waterproof formula. It promises up to 16 hours of wear, making it ideal for long days or events where you need your makeup to stay put. The color 'Perversion' is a matte blackest black, offering a bold and intense look that suits various styles and occasions.

Another benefit is its creamy, glide-on formula enriched with hydrating ingredients like Vitamin E, jojoba oil, and cottonseed oil, which not only ensure smooth application but also condition the delicate skin around your eyes. This eyeliner is smudge-proof and transfer-proof, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups. Additionally, it can be used in multiple ways, such as an eye liner, eye shadow, or base, adding to its versatility.

While its creamy texture makes for easy application, some users might find it can smudge during application if not careful. Furthermore, the pencil's softness might require frequent sharpening, which can be a minor inconvenience. Those looking for vibrant color options will appreciate the variety in this product line, though the specific color in this review is limited to matte black. This eyeliner is well-suited for those who prioritize long wear, ease of use, and a bold finish, with the added benefit of hydration and skin conditioning.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,386
Formula
Color
Ease of Use

Most important from
13126 reviews

Formula
This eyeliner goes on smooth and stays put, providing a natural look without any smearing or unevenness.
Color
Applying the liner is effortless, and the color is exceptional.
Ease of Use
The glide is perfect - not too thick nor too thin, eliminating the need to pull on the eyelid during application.
#2

Clinique Quickliner For Eyes Eyeliner Pencil | Water Resistant, Smudge Resistant + Safe For Sensitive Eyes, Slate, 1 Count

Rating
9.1
Ease of Use
Longevity
Color

Most important from
5574 reviews

Ease of Use
Glides on effortlessly, delivering a clean and precise line without any tugging.
Longevity
Water-resistant and smudge-proof formula that truly stays put all day without fading.
Color
A smoky, soft color that enhances eye color without being harsh or overpowering.

The Clinique Quickliner For Eyes is an automatic pencil eyeliner designed to be easy to use since it doesn’t require sharpening. This makes it convenient for quick application, especially for beginners or anyone on the go. The formula is smooth and delivers a rich, pigmented color in a shade called Slate, which is a versatile, soft gray that works well for everyday looks without being too harsh like black. It has a mostly natural finish, leaning towards matte with a subtle sheen that helps define the eyes without looking overly shiny.

One of its standout features is its long-lasting, water- and smudge-resistant formula. This means you can expect the liner to stay put throughout the day with minimal fading or smearing, which is great if you have oily eyelids or live in humid climates. The product is also gentle enough for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, being ophthalmologist tested and fragrance-free, which reduces the risk of irritation.

The pencil-style eyeliner might not create extremely sharp or precise lines compared to liquid liners, so it may not be ideal if you prefer very dramatic or graphic eye looks. While the Slate color is versatile, those looking for bolder or more vivid colors might find the shade options limited in this specific listing. This eyeliner pencil is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable, easy-to-use liner that lasts long and is safe for sensitive eyes. It suits everyday makeup routines well but might not fully satisfy users wanting very bold colors or ultra-precise application.

Rating
9.1
Ease of Use
Longevity
Color

Most important from
5574 reviews

Ease of Use
Glides on effortlessly, delivering a clean and precise line without any tugging.
Longevity
Water-resistant and smudge-proof formula that truly stays put all day without fading.
Color
A smoky, soft color that enhances eye color without being harsh or overpowering.
#3

L'Oreal Paris Makeup Infallible Never Fail Original Mechanical Pencil Eyeliner with Built in Sharpener, Black Brown, 0.008 oz., 2 Count

Rating
9.1
Formula
Color
Ease of Use

Most important from
27275 reviews

Formula
The creamy formula glides on effortlessly, allowing for both precise lines and beautifully blended smoky looks without tugging or skipping.
Color
The Black Brown shade offers a softer, less harsh alternative to pure black, perfect for a natural yet defined look.
Ease of Use
The built-in sharpener ensures a consistently crisp tip, eliminating the need for extra tools and making touch-ups easy.
Longevity
Long-lasting wear of over eight hours keeps the eyeliner smudge-proof and intact through daily activities, including workouts and humid conditions.

The L'Oreal Paris Infallible Never Fail Mechanical Pencil Eyeliner is a creamy, mechanical pencil designed for easy application and long wear. Its built-in sharpener helps maintain a precise tip, suitable for both subtle and bold eye looks. The formula is smudge-proof and offers up to 16 hours of fade-proof color, ensuring reliable all-day wear without frequent touch-ups.

The Black Brown shade provides a softer alternative to pure black, making it ideal for everyday use or more natural looks. It glides on smoothly, making it user-friendly even for those new to eyeliner pencils. While it may not create as sharp or intense lines as liquid eyeliners, and the creamy texture requires occasional sharpening despite the built-in sharpener, it performs well for long-lasting, smudge-resistant color with moderate intensity and easy application.

This eyeliner is especially suitable for those who prefer pencil formulas over other types. Pairing it with volumizing mascara can complete a natural to dramatic eye makeup look.

Rating
9.1
Formula
Color
Ease of Use

Most important from
27275 reviews

Formula
The creamy formula glides on effortlessly, allowing for both precise lines and beautifully blended smoky looks without tugging or skipping.
Color
The Black Brown shade offers a softer, less harsh alternative to pure black, perfect for a natural yet defined look.
Ease of Use
The built-in sharpener ensures a consistently crisp tip, eliminating the need for extra tools and making touch-ups easy.
Longevity
Long-lasting wear of over eight hours keeps the eyeliner smudge-proof and intact through daily activities, including workouts and humid conditions.

Buying Guide for the Best Eyeliner Pencils

Choosing the right eyeliner pencil can make a significant difference in your makeup routine. The right eyeliner can enhance your eyes, complement your overall look, and even boost your confidence. When selecting an eyeliner pencil, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are the main factors to consider when picking an eyeliner pencil.
Type of Eyeliner PencilEyeliner pencils come in various types, including traditional wooden pencils, mechanical twist-up pencils, and gel pencils. Traditional wooden pencils need to be sharpened regularly, which can give you a precise tip for detailed work. Mechanical pencils are convenient as they don't require sharpening, but they may not always provide the sharpest point. Gel pencils offer a smooth application and are often more pigmented, making them ideal for bold looks. Choose the type based on your preference for convenience, precision, and the kind of look you want to achieve.
FormulaThe formula of the eyeliner pencil determines its texture, ease of application, and staying power. Some formulas are creamy and glide on smoothly, which is great for creating smudged or smoky looks. Others are more waxy and firm, providing better control for precise lines. Waterproof formulas are ideal for long-lasting wear, especially in humid conditions or if you have oily skin. Consider your skin type and the look you want to achieve when selecting the formula. If you have sensitive eyes, look for hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested formulas.
ColorEyeliner pencils come in a wide range of colors, from classic black and brown to vibrant blues, greens, and purples. The color you choose can enhance your eye color and complement your overall makeup look. Black and brown are versatile and suitable for everyday wear, while colored eyeliners can add a fun pop to your look. If you have blue eyes, try bronze or copper shades to make them stand out. Green eyes can be accentuated with plum or burgundy liners, and brown eyes can pull off almost any color. Choose a color that complements your eye color and fits the occasion.
FinishThe finish of the eyeliner can affect the overall look of your makeup. Eyeliner pencils can have matte, satin, or shimmer finishes. Matte finishes are great for a classic, understated look and are less likely to smudge. Satin finishes offer a slight sheen that can make your eyes look more awake and vibrant. Shimmer finishes add a touch of sparkle and are perfect for special occasions or a night out. Consider the finish based on the look you want to achieve and the occasion for which you'll be wearing the eyeliner.
Ease of UseEase of use is an important factor, especially if you're a beginner or have limited time for makeup application. Some eyeliner pencils are designed to be user-friendly, with features like ergonomic grips or built-in sharpeners. Mechanical pencils are generally easier to use as they don't require sharpening. Gel pencils can be a bit trickier to apply but offer a smooth, intense line. Consider your skill level and how much time you want to spend on your eyeliner when choosing a product. If you're new to eyeliner, look for pencils that are marketed as easy to use or beginner-friendly.
LongevityLongevity refers to how long the eyeliner stays on without fading, smudging, or transferring. Long-wearing eyeliners are essential if you need your makeup to last all day or through special events. Waterproof and smudge-proof formulas tend to have better longevity and are ideal for long days, humid conditions, or if you have oily eyelids. If you need your eyeliner to last from morning to night, look for products that specifically mention long-wear or all-day wear in their description. Test the product if possible to ensure it meets your longevity needs.

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