10 Best Eyeliners 2025 in the United States

The Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner is a pencil-type eyeliner in black, designed to offer a bold, long-lasting look. Its major strengths include a waterproof formula that claims to last up to 24 hours and a smooth, creamy texture, making application easy.

The built-in sharpener is a handy feature, ensuring you always have a precise tip, and the smudger allows for versatile looks ranging from sharp and defined to soft and smoky. Available in eight intense shades, this eyeliner is ophthalmologist-tested, which is reassuring for those with sensitive eyes. The matte finish adds to its appeal for a classic look.

Some users may find the claim of 24-hour wear slightly exaggerated depending on their skin type or activity level. Being a pencil, it might require frequent sharpening to maintain the desired precision. Despite these minor drawbacks, it is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable, versatile eyeliner that can handle various makeup looks with ease.

Revlon ColorStay Pencil Eyeliner in Black Brown is designed for those seeking long-lasting, smudge-proof eye makeup. The eyeliner boasts a waterproof formula that promises up to 24 hours of wear, making it suited for long days or special occasions. Its creamy texture ensures a smooth application, which is further enhanced by the ultra-fine tip. This allows for precise lines, which can be easily maintained using the built-in sharpener.

The built-in smudger is a handy feature for achieving softer, smoky eye looks. Its versatility means you can experiment with various styles, from subtle to dramatic. The product offers a metallic finish, which may appeal to users looking for a bit of shimmer in their eye makeup. However, it is worth noting that the crayon form might require some practice for those unfamiliar with non-liquid eyeliners.

Available in eight shades, the Black Brown option is a classic choice that suits many skin tones. This eyeliner is particularly beneficial for those who prioritize longevity and enjoy playing with different eyeliner looks. While it covers many bases, users should be aware of the metallic finish, which might not be everyone's preference for daily wear.

The e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner is a creamy, ultra-pigmented, and waterproof product that promises to create bold and defined lines. It stands out for its long-lasting formula, which can be used on the lash line, waterline, or even all over the lid. This versatility makes it a good choice for creating both sharp, defined looks and smoky, smudged eyes. The retractable design adds convenience, eliminating the need for sharpening, which is a plus for ease of use.

One of the biggest strengths of this eyeliner is its staying power; it sets in about 30 seconds for a budge-proof finish that can last all day, making it particularly suited for long wear. Additionally, it is 100% vegan and cruelty-free, aligning with ethical beauty standards, which may appeal to those who prioritize animal welfare in their purchasing decisions. On the downside, the creamy texture, while providing intense pigmentation, might be challenging for beginners to control and could lead to messy application if not handled carefully.

The product is available only in black, which limits options for those looking for a variety of colors. Despite being described as having a natural finish, users might find it too bold for daytime or subtle looks. e.l.f. Cosmetics also ensures their products are made with skin-loving ingredients at an affordable price point, making this eyeliner accessible to everyone. However, users should consider that it is manufactured in China, which might be a point of concern for some. In summary, this eyeliner is a strong contender for those needing a reliable and affordable option that offers high pigmentation and longevity, especially if they prefer vegan and cruelty-free products.