Top 5 Best Pencil Eyeliners 2024

Pencil eyeliners are a staple in any makeup bag. They are versatile, easy to use, and come in a variety of colors and formulas. Whether you’re going for a subtle daytime look or a dramatic nighttime look, a pencil eyeliner can help you achieve it.

When it comes to choosing the best pencil eyeliner, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the formula. Do you want a waterproof formula that will last all day, or a softer formula that is easier to blend? Second, think about the color. Do you want a classic black or brown, or something more colorful like blue or green? Finally, consider the price. While there are some high-end pencil eyeliners on the market, there are also plenty of affordable options that work just as well.

After researching and testing several pencil eyeliners, we’ve identified the top picks that offer a range of formulas, colors, and prices. Whether you’re a makeup pro or a beginner, our recommendations will help you find the best pencil eyeliner for your needs.

Best Pencil Eyeliners

We’ve compiled a list of the best pencil eyeliners on the market for those who prefer a more traditional approach to eye makeup. Whether you’re looking for a smudge-proof option for all-day wear or a pencil that glides on smoothly, we’ve got you covered. Our top picks are based on customer reviews, expert opinions, and personal experience. So, without further ado, here are our top choices for the best pencil eyeliners.

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil, Retractable Eyeliner, Always Onyx – Black

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If you’re looking for a pencil eyeliner that will stay put all day, the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The intense pigment covers like a liquid eyeliner, making it perfect for creating bold, defined lines.
• The creamy formula glides on effortlessly and holds for hours, so you don’t have to worry about touch-ups throughout the day.
• The retractable design means you never have to sharpen the pencil, making it a convenient option for on-the-go touch-ups.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the pencil can break easily if too much pressure is applied during application.
• While the pencil is smudge-proof, it can be difficult to remove at the end of the day.
• The shade range is limited to 12 colors, so you may not find your perfect match.

We’ve found the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil to be a reliable choice for everyday wear. The creamy formula glides on smoothly without tugging or pulling, and the intense pigment means you don’t have to go over the same area multiple times to achieve your desired look. We also appreciate the retractable design, which makes it easy to apply on the go without worrying about sharpening the pencil.

That being said, we have noticed that the pencil can break easily if too much pressure is applied, so be sure to use a light hand during application. Additionally, while the pencil is smudge-proof, it can be difficult to remove at the end of the day, so you may want to use a dedicated eye makeup remover to ensure all traces are gone. Finally, while the shade range is decent, it’s not as expansive as some other brands, so you may not find your perfect match.

Overall, we’d recommend the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil to anyone looking for a reliable, long-lasting eyeliner that’s easy to apply and perfect for everyday wear.

Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner

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If you’re looking for a versatile, long-lasting eyeliner, the Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner is a great option.

Pros

• The waterproof formula lasts up to 24 hours, making it perfect for all-day wear.
• The built-in sharpener ensures that you always have a precise tip for easy application.
• The smudger allows you to create a smoky eye look or blend the color for a softer effect.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the pencil breaks easily.
• The color may not be as intense as other eyeliners.
• The formula may irritate sensitive eyes.

We’ve found that the Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner is a reliable choice for everyday wear. The waterproof formula means that it stays put all day without smudging or fading, making it perfect for long days at work or special events.

The built-in sharpener is a convenient feature that ensures that you always have a precise tip for easy application. We also love the smudger, which allows you to blend the color for a softer, smoky effect or create a dramatic winged liner.

While some users have reported that the pencil breaks easily, we haven’t experienced this issue ourselves. However, we have noticed that the color may not be as intense as other eyeliners, so if you’re looking for a bold, dramatic look, this may not be the best option.

Overall, we would recommend the Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner for anyone looking for a reliable, long-lasting eyeliner that can create a variety of looks.

URBAN DECAY 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil – Smudge-Proof – 16HR Wear – Long-Lasting, Ultra-Creamy & Blendable Formula – Sharpenable Tip Perversion (matte blackest black)

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If you’re looking for a pencil eyeliner that lasts all day without smudging, the URBAN DECAY 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil is a great option.

Pros

• Glides on smoothly
• Long-lasting wear
• Comes in a variety of finishes

Cons

• Expensive
• Can break easily
• Not completely smudge-proof

We’ve tried many pencil eyeliners over the years, and the URBAN DECAY 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil is definitely one of the best. It glides on effortlessly, making it easy to create a precise line. Plus, it comes in a variety of finishes, so you can choose the perfect look for any occasion.

One of the best things about this eyeliner is its long-lasting wear. It can easily last all day without smudging or fading, which is great for those long workdays or nights out on the town.

However, it is a bit on the expensive side, and it can break easily if you’re not careful. Additionally, while it is smudge-resistant, it’s not completely smudge-proof, so you may need to touch up throughout the day.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality pencil eyeliner that will last all day, the URBAN DECAY 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil is definitely worth considering.

Maybelline TattooStudio Long-Lasting Sharpenable Eyeliner Pencil

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If you want a waterproof eyeliner that can last for 36 hours, Maybelline TattooStudio Long-Lasting Sharpenable Eyeliner Pencil is a great option.

Pros

• The sharpenable pencil delivers precise definition and pigment-rich hues.
• The waterproof eyeliner glides on smoothly and does not smudge or fade throughout the day.
• Maybelline offers a wide range of shades to choose from, so you can find the perfect color for any occasion.

Cons

• The pencil can be difficult to sharpen, which may be frustrating for some users.
• The color may not be as vibrant as some other eyeliners on the market.
• The wax-like texture may require more effort to apply than other eyeliners.

We have found that this eyeliner is easy to apply and lasts for a long time without smudging or fading. It is also versatile, as it can be used to create subtle lines or more dramatic looks. However, it may take some practice to get used to the wax-like texture, and sharpening the pencil can be a bit tricky. Overall, we think Maybelline TattooStudio Long-Lasting Sharpenable Eyeliner Pencil is a great choice for anyone looking for a long-lasting, waterproof eyeliner.

Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Gel Pencil Eyeliner

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If you’re looking for a pencil eyeliner that can withstand anything, Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Gel Pencil Eyeliner could be a great choice for you.

Pros

• The high-intensity color gives an instant color impact.
• The ultra-smooth and creamy formula glides on easily, making it easy to apply.
• It’s smudge-proof, sweat-proof, heat-proof, and waterproof, ensuring that your eyeliner stays put all day long.

Cons

• The pencil is not self-sharpening, so you’ll need a sharpener to keep the tip pointed.
• The eyeliner may not last as long as some other waterproof eyeliners.
• The sparkles in the sparkling black color are subtle, so if you’re looking for a more dramatic look, this may not be the best choice.

We’ve found that Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Gel Pencil Eyeliner is a great option for those who need their eyeliner to stay put all day long. The high-intensity color gives an instant color impact, and the ultra-smooth and creamy formula glides on easily, making it easy to apply. The eyeliner is also smudge-proof, sweat-proof, heat-proof, and waterproof, ensuring that your eyeliner stays put no matter what.

However, there are a few downsides to this eyeliner. The pencil is not self-sharpening, so you’ll need a sharpener to keep the tip pointed. Additionally, the eyeliner may not last as long as some other waterproof eyeliners, so you may need to reapply throughout the day. Finally, the sparkles in the sparkling black color are subtle, so if you’re looking for a more dramatic look, this may not be the best choice.

Overall, we believe that Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Gel Pencil Eyeliner is a great choice for those who need a reliable, waterproof eyeliner that will stay put all day long.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best pencil eyeliner, there are a few key features to keep in mind. Here are some factors to consider when making your purchase:

Formula

The formula of the eyeliner is important as it determines how long-lasting and smudge-proof the product will be. Look for a formula that is waterproof and sweat-resistant if you plan on wearing the eyeliner for long periods of time. Additionally, if you have sensitive eyes, consider opting for a hypoallergenic formula.

Pigmentation

The pigmentation of the eyeliner is another important factor to consider. A highly pigmented formula will provide a bold and defined look, while a less pigmented formula will provide a more natural look. Consider your personal preference and the occasion for which you will be wearing the eyeliner.

Application

The application of the eyeliner is crucial for achieving the desired look. Look for a pencil eyeliner with a smooth and creamy texture that glides on easily. Additionally, consider the shape of the pencil tip. A pointed tip will allow for precise application, while a rounded tip will provide a more smudged look.

Price

Price is always a consideration when making a purchase. While high-end pencil eyeliners may provide superior quality, there are plenty of affordable options on the market that perform just as well. Consider your budget and the frequency with which you will be using the eyeliner.

In summary, when choosing a pencil eyeliner, consider the formula, pigmentation, application, and price. By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be able to select a product that meets your needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top pencil eyeliners recommended for beginners?

For beginners, we recommend trying out the Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner or the Maybelline New York Unstoppable Eyeliner. These eyeliners are easy to apply and have a smooth texture that glides on easily. They are also affordable and readily available at most drugstores.

Which waterproof pencil eyeliners have the best staying power?

If you’re looking for a waterproof pencil eyeliner that won’t budge, we recommend the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil or the Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner Gel Eye Crayon Eyeliner. These eyeliners have excellent staying power and won’t smudge or fade throughout the day.

What are the best drugstore pencil eyeliners that offer quality at an affordable price?

If you’re on a budget, we recommend the NYX Professional Makeup Retractable Eyeliner or the L’Oreal Paris Infallible Never Fail Eyeliner. These eyeliners offer excellent quality at an affordable price and are available at most drugstores.

Which pencil eyeliners are best for the waterline and are safe for sensitive eyes?

For the waterline, we recommend the Tarte Cosmetics Fake Awake Eyeliner or the Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eyeliner. These eyeliners are safe for sensitive eyes and won’t irritate or cause any discomfort.

What are the preferred pencil eyeliners for mature skin that won’t smudge?

For mature skin, we recommend the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Eye Pencil or the Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Eye Pencil. These eyeliners won’t smudge or fade and are perfect for those with mature skin.

How to choose a soft and gentle pencil eyeliner for older skin?

When choosing a pencil eyeliner for older skin, look for a formula that is soft and gentle on the skin. We recommend the Charlotte Tilbury Rock ‘n’ Kohl Eyeliner or the BareMinerals Round the Clock Intense Cream-Glide Eyeliner. These eyeliners have a creamy texture that glides on smoothly without tugging or pulling on the delicate skin around the eyes.

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