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10 Best Liquid Eyeliners 2025 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

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Epic Ink Liner, Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner - Black, Vegan Formula

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,226
Applicator Type
Color
Ease of Removal

Most important from
96858 reviews

Applicator Type
The eyeliner offers a smooth glide and a pointed tip perfect for achieving a flawless cat-eye look.
Color
Its bold black color provides a streak-free finish that lasts all day but is still easy to remove when needed.
Ease of Removal
Its bold black color provides a streak-free finish that lasts all day but is still easy to remove when needed.

The NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Epic Ink Liner stands out with its waterproof, matte black formula, making it ideal for those seeking a long-lasting cat-eye look. The applicator features an ultra-precise, flexible tip, allowing for easy application and control over the thickness of your lines. This versatility means you can create anything from fine, natural lines to bold, dramatic ones with ease.

Additionally, the eyeliner is vegan and cruelty-free, appealing to conscientious consumers who prefer animal-friendly products. Its strong pigmentation ensures a deep, rich black color that stays put throughout the day. However, while its waterproof nature is a strength for longevity, it might make removal a bit more challenging, requiring a good makeup remover to fully eliminate it.

The product is well-regarded and popular within the beauty community, making it a reliable choice. This eyeliner is best suited for those who need a durable, versatile product but are prepared for a potentially more involved removal process.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,226
Applicator Type
Color
Ease of Removal

Most important from
96858 reviews

Applicator Type
The eyeliner offers a smooth glide and a pointed tip perfect for achieving a flawless cat-eye look.
Color
Its bold black color provides a streak-free finish that lasts all day but is still easy to remove when needed.
Ease of Removal
Its bold black color provides a streak-free finish that lasts all day but is still easy to remove when needed.
#2

Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Pen No-Skip Eyeliner, Satin Finish, Waterproof Formula, Pitch Black, 0.018 Fl Oz

Rating
9.4
Formula
Color
Drying Time

Most important from
65864 reviews

Formula
The waterproof version is lightweight, easy to use, and offers long-lasting wear at a reasonable price.
Color
The product itself works wonderfully, providing a dark black color that lasts all day.
Drying Time
This eyeliner dries almost instantly with no transfer, even on oily eyelids. It goes on smoothly and lasts all day without smudging.

The Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Pen No-Skip Eyeliner is designed to facilitate a smooth and seamless application, making it ideal for those who often struggle with uneven lines. The flex-tip brush and hexagonal grip provide precise control, which can be especially helpful for both novices and experienced users aiming for a flawless finish.

The formula is waterproof and promises a satin finish, ensuring your eyeliner stays put for up to 24 hours, which is great for long days or nights out. The intense pitch black color is suited for bold, dramatic looks. However, its waterproof nature means it may require a specialized remover, like micellar water, to take off, which could be a slight inconvenience for users accustomed to easier makeup removal.

Additionally, the drying time isn't explicitly mentioned, but its no-skip feature suggests it dries quickly enough to prevent smudging during application. This eyeliner is especially suitable for those seeking a long-lasting, easy-to-apply product that provides a high-impact look.

Rating
9.4
Formula
Color
Drying Time

Most important from
65864 reviews

Formula
The waterproof version is lightweight, easy to use, and offers long-lasting wear at a reasonable price.
Color
The product itself works wonderfully, providing a dark black color that lasts all day.
Drying Time
This eyeliner dries almost instantly with no transfer, even on oily eyelids. It goes on smoothly and lasts all day without smudging.
#3

stila Stay All Day® Smudge & Set Waterproof Gel Eye Liner | Waterline-Safe, Long-Lasting Color Wear, Smooth Glide Eyeliner Pencil or Eyeshadow | Stingray Black

Rating
9.2
Formula
Color

Most important from
358 reviews

Formula
Goes on smooth and does not smudge.
Color
The color is terrific and it doesn't smudge.

The stila Stay All Day® Smudge & Set Waterproof Gel Eye Liner is a versatile option for those seeking a reliable liquid eyeliner. The applicator is a gel-based pencil, which makes it easy to apply smoothly without skipping. This feature can help you create various looks, whether you prefer a precise line or a smudged, smoky effect. The formula is impressive—it’s waterline-safe and waterproof, which means it won’t budge even in humid conditions or after a long day. Plus, it promises a long-lasting wear of up to 12 hours, so you won't need frequent touch-ups.

The color, Stingray Black, is rich and intense, providing immediate color payoff in just one swipe. This is great for those who need a bold look without much effort. It sets quickly and becomes smudge-resistant, making it a reliable choice for all-day wear. However, one potential drawback is that it might not be the easiest to remove due to its waterproof nature. You may need a good makeup remover to take it off completely. Another point to consider is its retractable design, which is convenient, but you must be careful to close the cap tightly to prevent the product from drying out.

In summary, the stila Stay All Day® Gel Eye Liner is a top choice for those looking for a long-lasting, versatile eyeliner that can handle both precise and smudged looks, though its ease of removal could be a minor inconvenience.

Rating
9.2
Formula
Color

Most important from
358 reviews

Formula
Goes on smooth and does not smudge.
Color
The color is terrific and it doesn't smudge.

Buying Guide for the Best Liquid Eyeliners

Choosing the right liquid eyeliner can make a significant difference in your makeup routine. Liquid eyeliners are known for their precision and ability to create sharp, defined lines. When selecting a liquid eyeliner, 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 and how to navigate them.
Applicator TypeThe applicator type is crucial because it determines how easy it is to apply the eyeliner and the kind of look you can achieve. There are mainly two types: brush tip and felt tip. Brush tips offer more flexibility and can create both thin and thick lines, making them ideal for those who want versatility. Felt tips are stiffer and provide more control, which is great for beginners or those who prefer a more precise application. Choose a brush tip if you are experienced and want versatility, or a felt tip if you are a beginner or prefer precision.
FormulaThe formula of the liquid eyeliner affects its longevity, finish, and ease of application. Some formulas are waterproof, which is essential if you need your eyeliner to last all day without smudging, especially in humid conditions or if you have oily eyelids. Non-waterproof formulas are easier to remove and may be more suitable for everyday use. Additionally, consider whether you prefer a matte or glossy finish. A matte finish gives a more natural look, while a glossy finish can add a dramatic effect. Choose a waterproof formula for long-lasting wear or a non-waterproof one for easier removal, and decide on the finish based on your desired look.
ColorWhile black is the most common and versatile color for liquid eyeliners, there are many other shades available that can complement different eye colors and makeup looks. Brown can provide a softer, more natural look, while bold colors like blue, green, or purple can make a statement and highlight your eyes. If you are new to liquid eyeliner, starting with black or brown is a safe choice. For more adventurous looks, experiment with different colors to see what complements your style and eye color best.
Drying TimeThe drying time of a liquid eyeliner can affect how quickly you can complete your makeup routine and how likely it is to smudge during application. Fast-drying formulas are convenient for quick application and reduce the risk of smudging, but they may be less forgiving if you make a mistake. Slower-drying formulas give you more time to perfect your line but require more patience. If you are often in a hurry, a fast-drying formula is ideal. If you prefer to take your time and ensure precision, a slower-drying formula may be better.
Ease of RemovalEase of removal is important for maintaining healthy skin around your eyes and for convenience. Some liquid eyeliners require makeup removers, while others can be washed off with water. Waterproof formulas typically need a stronger remover, which can be harsher on the skin. If you have sensitive skin or prefer a quick and easy removal process, opt for a non-waterproof formula. If longevity is your priority, be prepared to use a dedicated makeup remover for waterproof eyeliners.

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