10 Best Soft Eyeliner Pencil 2025 in the United States

The Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner in Black Violet stands out for its longwearing and waterproof formula, promising up to 24 hours of smudge-proof wear. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need their makeup to last throughout the day without touch-ups. The texture is smooth and creamy, ensuring a comfortable application that glides effortlessly along the eyelid.

Additionally, the built-in sharpener and smudger add convenience, making it easy to achieve precise lines or a smoky, blended look depending on your preference. With 14 intense shades available, there's plenty of variety for different styles and preferences.

However, some users might find the pigmentation to be slightly less intense compared to liquid eyeliners. Also, while the waterproof feature is beneficial for longevity, it could be challenging to remove without a good makeup remover. Those with sensitive eyes or skin might want to check the ingredients list to ensure there are no irritants. This eyeliner is a versatile and practical option for anyone looking for a reliable, everyday makeup staple.

The e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner is designed to offer creamy, ultra-pigmented color that's also waterproof, making it ideal for creating bold, defined lines. One of its standout strengths is its longevity; once applied, it sets within 30 seconds and stays in place throughout the day without smudging or fading. This makes it a reliable choice for long-wear situations or even humid conditions. Its high pigmentation ensures that a little goes a long way, providing strong color payoff with minimal effort.

Additionally, the creamy texture facilitates a smooth application, which is great for both beginners and experienced users. The eyeliner's blendability allows for versatile looks, from a sharp, defined line to a smoky, smudged effect. You can easily smudge it before it sets, offering flexibility in your eye makeup routines. The retractable design means there’s no need for sharpening, adding to its convenience. However, it’s worth noting that because it sets quickly, there is a limited window to blend before it becomes budge-proof.

The product is also vegan and cruelty-free, aligning with ethical beauty standards, which is a considerable advantage for conscious consumers. On the downside, the eyeliner may not be ideal for those looking for a more natural or subtle look due to its intense pigmentation. Additionally, while the creamy texture aids application, it might be prone to breaking if too much pressure is applied. For those who prioritize bold, long-lasting eyeliner that aligns with cruelty-free values, this product is a strong contender.

The Julep When Pencil Met Gel eyeliner pencil offers a smooth texture, thanks to its gel-based formula. This ensures ease of application without any tugging or skipping, making it suitable for both the lash line and the waterline. The high pigmentation provides an intense, saturated color in just one swipe, which is great if you’re looking for a bold finish.

This particular shade, Chocolate Brown Shimmer, is versatile enough for both daytime and evening wear, adding a subtle shimmer to your look. The eyeliner is designed to be long-lasting, with a promise of over 10 hours of wear, which is ideal if you need it to stay put throughout the day without frequent touch-ups. It’s also transfer-proof and water-resistant, adding to its durability.

Blendability is an added bonus, as you can smudge it out for a smoky look before it sets. One potential downside is that it requires a sharpener, which can be inconvenient if you’re on-the-go and prefer a twist-up pencil. Additionally, the need for a sharpener might lead to product wastage. This eyeliner is well-suited for those who prioritize long wear, intense color, and a smooth application, but it may not be the best choice if you prefer a matte finish or a twist-up pencil for convenience.