Discover the Best Eyeliner Pencil: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Finding the right eyeliner pencil can make a significant difference in your makeup routine. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle enhancement or a dramatic look, the perfect eyeliner pencil can help you achieve your desired effect with ease and precision. With so many options available, it’s essential to understand the various types of eyeliner pencils and their unique benefits. This guide will walk you through the importance of selecting the right eyeliner pencil and provide an overview of the different types available, ensuring you can make an informed choice for your beauty needs.

Importance of Finding the Right Eyeliner Pencil

Choosing the right eyeliner pencil is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it can affect the longevity and overall appearance of your makeup. A high-quality eyeliner pencil that suits your skin type and preferences will stay in place longer, resist smudging, and provide a smoother application. Additionally, the right eyeliner pencil can enhance the natural shape and color of your eyes, complementing your overall look. Whether you need a waterproof formula for all-day wear or a softer pencil for a smoky eye, the right product can make your makeup application more efficient and effective.

Overview of the Different Types of Eyeliner Pencils

There are several types of eyeliner pencils, each offering unique benefits and suited to different styles and preferences:

Waterproof Eyeliner Pencils: Ideal for long-lasting wear, especially in humid conditions or for activities like swimming. These pencils resist smudging and are perfect for creating precise lines that stay put all day.
Gel Eyeliner Pencils: Known for their creamy texture and intense pigmentation, gel eyeliner pencils glide on smoothly and are excellent for creating bold, dramatic looks. They often have a slightly glossy finish.
Kohl and Kajal Eyeliner Pencils: Traditional options that offer rich, dark pigments. These pencils are great for creating smoky eyes and can be blended easily for a soft, sultry effect.
Creamy and Soft Eyeliner Pencils: Best for sensitive eyes and mature skin, these pencils provide a gentle application without tugging or pulling. They are also ideal for creating a soft, diffused line.

By understanding the different types of eyeliner pencils and their specific advantages, you can choose the one that best fits your needs and enhances your makeup routine.

Types of Eyeliner Pencils

When selecting an eyeliner pencil, it’s important to understand the various types available, each offering unique benefits and suited to different preferences and needs. Here’s a detailed look at the types of eyeliner pencils:

Waterproof Eyeliner Pencils

Best Waterproof Options

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil: Known for its creamy texture and long-lasting wear, available in a variety of shades.
Marc Jacobs Highliner Gel Eye Crayon: Offers intense color payoff and smooth application, ideal for both bold and subtle looks.
Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Eye Pencil: Provides vibrant colors and excellent water resistance, perfect for special occasions.
L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner: A budget-friendly option that delivers long-lasting wear.
NYX Professional Makeup Slide On Pencil: Affordable and reliable, this pencil offers intense color and smudge-proof performance.

How They Differ from Regular Pencils

Formula: Contains special ingredients like waxes, silicones, and film-forming agents to create a water-resistant barrier.
Longevity: Designed to last through sweat, humidity, and water exposure, ideal for long days or active situations.
Application: Generally firmer due to the waterproof formula, but many modern versions maintain a smooth, creamy application.
Removal: Requires oil-based makeup remover or micellar water to effectively remove without irritating the skin.

Gel Eyeliner Pencils

Benefits of Gel Formulas

Creamy Texture: Gel eyeliners offer a smooth and easy application, gliding effortlessly over the skin.
Intense Pigmentation: Provides rich, bold colors that stand out and last longer.
Versatility: Suitable for creating a variety of looks, from sharp lines to smoky eyes.

Top Gel Eyeliner Pencils

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner: Highly pigmented and long-lasting, perfect for dramatic looks.
Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner: Affordable and reliable, offering a creamy texture and bold color.
Tarte Tarteist Double Take Eyeliner: A dual-ended pencil that combines a gel pencil with a liquid liner for versatile application.
Sephora Collection Retractable Waterproof Gel Eyeliner: Provides intense color and long wear, available in multiple shades.
NYX Professional Makeup Gel Liner and Smudger: Affordable and versatile, great for both precise lines and smoky looks.

Kohl and Kajal Eyeliner Pencils

Traditional Uses and Modern Variations

Traditional Uses: Historically used in South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa for both aesthetic and medicinal purposes.
Modern Variations: Today’s kohl and kajal pencils offer intense black pigmentation, smooth application, and are often formulated to be safe for the waterline.

Creamy and Soft Eyeliner Pencils

Ideal for Sensitive Eyes and Older Skin

Gentle Application: These pencils provide a soft, smooth application without tugging or pulling, making them ideal for delicate or mature skin.
Blending: Easily blendable, perfect for creating soft, diffused lines and smoky looks.

Best Products in This Category

Clinique Quickliner for Eyes: Gentle and smooth, ideal for sensitive eyes.
Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner: Creamy texture and waterproof formula at an affordable price.
L’Oréal Paris Infallible Never Fail Eyeliner: Soft and creamy, designed for long-lasting wear.
Marcelle Waterproof Eyeliner: Hypoallergenic and gentle, suitable for sensitive skin.
Covergirl Perfect Point Plus Eyeliner: Soft and blendable, with a built-in smudger for easy application.

Understanding these different types of eyeliner pencils will help you choose the best one for your needs, ensuring you achieve the perfect look with ease and precision.

Best Eyeliner Pencils by Color

Choosing the right color of eyeliner pencil can enhance your eye makeup and overall look. Here’s a guide to the best eyeliner pencils by color, including top picks and tips for using colored eyeliners effectively.

Black Eyeliner Pencils

Top Picks for Black Eyeliner

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Perversion: Ultra-black, creamy, and long-lasting.
MAC Eye Kohl in Smolder: A favorite for its intense color and smooth application.
NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner: Highly pigmented and waterproof, perfect for sharp lines.
Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner in Black: Affordable, long-lasting, and smudge-proof.
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner: Known for its precision and staying power.

Brown Eyeliner Pencils

Best Brown Eyeliner Pencils

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Eye Pencil in Mahogany: Offers a rich brown color with a creamy texture.
Maybelline New York Unstoppable Eyeliner in Cinnabar: Long-lasting and smudge-resistant.
Charlotte Tilbury The Classic Eyeliner Pencil in Audrey: Soft, blendable, and ideal for a natural look.
Clinique Quickliner for Eyes in Roast Coffee: Smooth application and long wear.
L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner in Brown: Waterproof and highly pigmented.

Colored Eyeliner Pencils

Blue, White, Red, and More

NYX Professional Makeup Slide On Pencil in Azure: Vibrant blue that glides on smoothly.
MAC Chromagraphic Pencil in Pure White: Perfect for brightening the eyes and making them appear larger.
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Vice: A deep purple that adds a pop of color.
Sephora Collection Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner in Matte Cobalt: Bold and waterproof, ideal for a striking look.
Rimmel London Exaggerate Eye Definer in Red Diva: Adds a unique and dramatic flair to your makeup.

Tips for Using Colored Eyeliners

Subtle Accents: Use colored eyeliner to add a subtle accent by applying it to the lower lash line or the inner corners of the eyes.
Combine with Neutral Shades: Pair colored eyeliner with neutral eyeshadows to balance the look and make the color stand out.
Layering: Layer colored eyeliner over black or brown liner for a more intense and defined look.
Matching with Eye Color: Choose colors that complement your eye color for a harmonious look. For example, blue eyeliner can make blue eyes pop, while green or purple can enhance brown eyes.
Experiment with Different Styles: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles, such as winged eyeliner or graphic shapes, to make the most of your colored pencils.

By selecting the right eyeliner color and applying it effectively, you can enhance your eye makeup and create a variety of stunning looks.

How to Choose the Best Eyeliner Pencil

Selecting the right eyeliner pencil involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best eyeliner pencil based on skin type, desired look, longevity, and brand preferences.

Skin Type and Sensitivities

Hypoallergenic Options For those with sensitive skin or eyes, hypoallergenic eyeliner pencils are essential. These formulas are designed to minimize irritation and are often free from common allergens. Look for labels that indicate the product is hypoallergenic, dermatologically tested, or suitable for sensitive eyes.

Best for Sensitive Eyes

Clinique Quickliner for Eyes: Gentle and suitable for sensitive eyes, offering smooth application.
Almay All-Day Intense Gel Eyeliner: Hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested, perfect for sensitive skin.
Physicians Formula Eye Booster Gel Eyeliner: Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and safe for contact lens wearers.
Burt’s Bees Nourishing Eyeliner Pencil: Made with natural ingredients and designed for sensitive eyes.
Neutrogena Nourishing Eyeliner Pencil: Gentle formula enriched with antioxidants to protect the delicate eye area.

Desired Look and Longevity

Smudge-Proof and Long-Lasting Pencils If you want your eyeliner to stay put all day without smudging, opt for long-lasting and smudge-proof formulas. These are especially useful for oily skin or humid climates.

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner: Known for its longevity and smudge-proof properties.
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil: Offers both long wear and resistance to smudging.
L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner: Affordable and stays put throughout the day.
Marc Jacobs Highliner Gel Eye Crayon: Long-lasting with intense pigmentation.
Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Eye Pencil: Designed for professional use, providing waterproof and smudge-proof wear.

Price and Brand Preferences

Drugstore vs. High-End Brands Your budget will influence whether you opt for drugstore or high-end eyeliner pencils. Drugstore options are often more affordable and offer good quality, while high-end brands may provide a more luxurious feel and longer-lasting results.

Popular Brands

MAC: Known for high-quality and professional-grade makeup, including their versatile eyeliner pencils.
NYX: Offers a wide range of affordable yet high-quality eyeliners in various colors and finishes.
Revlon: A trusted drugstore brand known for its reliable and long-lasting eyeliners.
Urban Decay: Offers high-pigmentation and long-wear eyeliners, perfect for bold and dramatic looks.
L’Oréal Paris: Combines quality with affordability, making it a popular choice for everyday use.

By considering your skin type, desired look, longevity, and brand preferences, you can select the best eyeliner pencil to suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a hypoallergenic option for sensitive eyes, a smudge-proof formula for all-day wear, or the best value for your budget, there’s an eyeliner pencil out there that’s perfect for you.

Application Tips

Applying eyeliner pencil correctly can enhance your eyes and elevate your overall makeup look. Here are some essential tips and techniques to help you achieve the perfect eyeliner application.

How to Apply Eyeliner Pencil

Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Prepare Your Eyelids: Start with clean, dry eyelids. Apply an eyeshadow primer to help the eyeliner stay in place and prevent smudging.
Choose Your Eyeliner Pencil: Select the right eyeliner pencil for your desired look. Sharpen it for a precise line if needed.
Start with Small Strokes: Begin at the inner corner of your upper eyelid. Use small, light strokes to create a thin line along your lash line.
Build the Line: Gradually build the line thicker towards the outer corner of your eye. Keep the line as close to the lashes as possible.
Fill in Any Gaps: Check for any gaps between the liner and your lashes and fill them in for a smooth, continuous line.
Wing It (Optional): For a winged look, extend the line slightly past the outer corner of your eye and angle it upwards.

How to Put On Eyeliner Pencil

Techniques for Different Eye Shapes

Hooded Eyes: Apply a thin line along the upper lash line, and avoid thick lines that can make the eyes look smaller. Consider tightlining the upper waterline for added definition.
Round Eyes: Create a balanced look by lining both the upper and lower lash lines. Slightly extend the liner at the outer corners to elongate the eyes.
Almond Eyes: Enhance your natural shape by following the contour of your eye. A cat-eye or winged liner works beautifully with almond eyes.
Monolid Eyes: Opt for a thicker line to ensure visibility when your eyes are open. Consider adding a wing for a more dramatic effect.
Downturned Eyes: Apply a thin line along the upper lash line and slightly lift the liner at the outer corners to create an uplifting effect.

How to Sharpen Eyeliner Pencil

Best Sharpeners and Methods

Use a Quality Sharpener: Invest in a good-quality sharpener specifically designed for eyeliner pencils. Eyeliner pencil sharpeners are made to accommodate the softer texture of cosmetic pencils. Avoid using regular pencil sharpeners, as they can break the tip.
Freeze Your Pencil: For creamy or soft eyeliner pencils, place them in the freezer for a few minutes before sharpening. This prevents the tip from breaking.
Sharpen Gently: Insert the pencil into the sharpener and turn it slowly and gently. Avoid applying too much pressure to prevent breakage.
Clean the Sharpener: Regularly clean your sharpener to remove any product buildup and ensure a smooth sharpening process.

How to Use Eyeliner Pencil

Creative Ways to Enhance Your Look

Tightlining: Apply eyeliner to the upper waterline (the area between your lashes and your eye) for a subtle yet defined look that makes your lashes appear fuller.
Waterline Application: For a more dramatic effect, apply eyeliner to the lower waterline. Use waterproof formulas to prevent smudging.
Smudging: Create a smoky eye by applying eyeliner and then smudging it with a brush or smudger tool for a soft, diffused look.
Double Lining: Combine two different eyeliner colors, such as black and a bright color, for a bold and unique look. Apply the black liner first, followed by the colored liner just above it.
Highlighting: Use a white or nude eyeliner pencil on the inner corners of your eyes and along the lower waterline to brighten and open up your eyes.
Graphic Liner: Experiment with graphic eyeliner shapes, such as geometric lines or floating crease designs, for a modern and edgy look.

By mastering these application tips and techniques, you can create a variety of stunning eyeliner looks that enhance your natural beauty and suit any occasion.

Eyeliner Pencil Maintenance

Proper maintenance of your eyeliner pencils ensures they remain effective and safe to use. Here are some essential tips for sharpening, caring for, and storing your eyeliner pencils.

Sharpening and Care

Tips for Maintaining Your Pencils

Regular Sharpening: Keep your eyeliner pencils sharp for precise application. Sharpen them regularly to maintain a fine point.
Use the Right Sharpener: Invest in a high-quality sharpener designed specifically for eyeliner pencils. This prevents breakage and ensures a clean, smooth tip.
Gentle Sharpening: When sharpening, turn the pencil slowly and gently to avoid breaking the tip. If the pencil is very soft, you can place it in the freezer for a few minutes to harden it slightly before sharpening.
Clean the Sharpener: Regularly clean your sharpener to remove product buildup. This prevents contamination and ensures smooth sharpening.

How to Sharpen Plastic Eyeliner Pencils

Choose the Right Sharpener: Ensure you have a sharpener suitable for plastic-cased pencils. Some sharpeners are designed to handle both wood and plastic.
Freeze Before Sharpening: Place the plastic eyeliner pencil in the freezer for a few minutes before sharpening. This hardens the product and reduces the risk of breakage.
Sharpen Slowly: Insert the pencil into the sharpener and turn it gently. Apply minimal pressure to avoid damaging the plastic casing.
Check the Tip: After sharpening, check the tip to ensure it is smooth and free of jagged edges. If necessary, gently shape it with your fingers or a tissue.

Storage and Hygiene

Keeping Your Pencils in Top Condition

Cap Your Pencils: Always replace the cap on your eyeliner pencils after use. This prevents the tip from drying out and keeps the product fresh.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep your eyeliner pencils away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture and longevity.
Avoid Contamination: Keep your pencils clean to prevent eye infections. Avoid using the same pencil on multiple people, and if you do, sanitize the tip between uses.
Regular Cleaning: Wipe the tip of your eyeliner pencil with a tissue or makeup wipe after each use to remove any bacteria and prevent buildup.
Check Expiry Dates: Be mindful of the shelf life of your eyeliner pencils. Replace them regularly, especially if you notice changes in texture, smell, or performance.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your eyeliner pencils remain in excellent condition, providing you with precise, smooth application every time. Proper care and storage not only enhance the longevity of your products but also help maintain hygiene and safety.

Popular Eyeliner Pencil Looks

Eyeliner pencils are versatile tools that can create a range of stunning looks, from classic to dramatic and trendy to unique. Here are some popular eyeliner pencil styles, along with inspiration and tips for achieving them.

Classic and Dramatic Styles

Inspiration and Tutorials

Classic Winged Eyeliner
- Inspiration: Timeless and elegant, the classic winged eyeliner suits any occasion.
- Tutorial:
  1. Draw a thin line from the inner corner of your upper lash line to the outer corner.
  2. Extend the line slightly past the outer corner, angling it upwards.
  3. Connect the tip of the wing back to the outer corner, forming a triangle.
  4. Fill in the triangle and smooth out any uneven edges.
Smoky Eye
- Inspiration: Perfect for evening events, the smoky eye adds depth and drama to your look.
- Tutorial:
  1. Apply a dark eyeliner pencil along the upper and lower lash lines.
  2. Smudge the lines using a smudger brush or a cotton swab to create a soft, diffused effect.
  3. Layer dark eyeshadow over the smudged liner and blend well.
  4. Highlight the inner corners of your eyes with a lighter shade to brighten the look.
Tightlining
- Inspiration: Subtle and natural, tightlining enhances your lash line without looking like makeup.
- Tutorial:
  1. Gently lift your upper eyelid to expose the waterline.
  2. Use a waterproof eyeliner pencil to apply liner directly to the upper waterline, making small, controlled strokes.
  3. Repeat on the lower waterline for a more defined look.

Trendy and Unique Looks

Experimenting with Colors and Techniques

Graphic Liner
- Inspiration: Modern and edgy, graphic liner involves creating bold, geometric shapes.
- Tutorial:
  1. Start with a clean, primed eyelid.
  2. Use a fine-tipped eyeliner pencil to draw geometric shapes or lines above your lash line or in the crease.
  3. Experiment with different shapes, such as triangles, squares, or floating lines.
  4. Keep the rest of your makeup minimal to let the liner take center stage.
Double Liner
- Inspiration: Playful and creative, double liner uses two contrasting colors for a striking effect.
- Tutorial:
  1. Apply your primary eyeliner color (e.g., black) along the upper lash line, extending into a wing.
  2. Choose a secondary color (e.g., blue or gold) and apply it just above the primary line, following the same shape.
  3. Ensure both lines are smooth and even, and finish with mascara.
Colored Waterline
- Inspiration: Bright and fun, using colored eyeliner on your waterline adds a pop of color to your look.
- Tutorial:
  1. Choose a vibrant eyeliner pencil color, such as blue, green, or purple.
  2. Gently pull down your lower eyelid to expose the waterline.
  3. Apply the eyeliner pencil directly to the waterline, making sure to cover the entire length.
  4. Pair with neutral eyeshadow and mascara to keep the focus on the colorful liner.
Ombre Liner
- Inspiration: Gradient and sophisticated, ombre liner blends two or more colors seamlessly.
- Tutorial:
  1. Select two complementary eyeliner pencil colors, such as black and dark blue.
  2. Apply the darker color along the outer half of your upper lash line, extending into a wing.
  3. Apply the lighter color to the inner half, blending where the two colors meet.
  4. Use a small brush or smudger to blend the colors for a smooth gradient effect.

By trying out these popular eyeliner pencil looks, you can enhance your makeup routine with both classic styles and trendy techniques. Experiment with different colors and shapes to find the looks that best express your personal style.

Conclusion

Choosing the right eyeliner pencil can transform your makeup routine and enhance your overall look. In this guide, we’ve explored the importance of finding the perfect eyeliner pencil, the different types available, and how to select the best one based on your skin type, desired look, and brand preferences. We’ve also provided detailed application tips, maintenance advice, and popular eyeliner pencil styles to inspire your creativity.

Recap of Key Points

Types of Eyeliner Pencils: Understand the differences between waterproof, gel, kohl, kajal, creamy, and soft eyeliner pencils to select the best one for your needs.
Color Selection: Explore various colors, including black, brown, and vibrant hues, and learn how to use them effectively.
Application Tips: Follow step-by-step guides for beginners and techniques for different eye shapes to achieve a flawless application.
Maintenance: Properly sharpen and store your eyeliner pencils to ensure they remain in top condition.
Popular Styles: Experiment with classic and dramatic styles, as well as trendy and unique looks, to find the ones that suit your personal style.

Encouragement to Try Different Styles and Products Don’t be afraid to experiment with different eyeliner styles and products. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced makeup enthusiast, there’s always something new to learn and try. Play with various colors, techniques, and brands to discover what works best for you. Remember, makeup is an art form, and your eyes are the canvas. Have fun, be bold, and let your creativity shine through.

By embracing the versatility of eyeliner pencils, you can create a wide range of looks that enhance your natural beauty and reflect your unique personality. Happy lining!

FAQ

Q1: What is the best type of eyeliner pencil for long-lasting wear?
A1: Waterproof eyeliner pencils are ideal for long-lasting wear. They are designed to resist moisture, sweat, and smudging, ensuring your eyeliner stays in place throughout the day. Some top picks include Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil and L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner.

Q2: How do I choose the right eyeliner pencil for sensitive eyes?
A2: For sensitive eyes, opt for hypoallergenic eyeliner pencils that are dermatologically tested. Brands like Clinique, Almay, and Burt’s Bees offer gentle formulas that minimize irritation. Look for labels indicating the product is suitable for sensitive eyes.

Q3: What are some tips for applying eyeliner pencil for beginners?
A3: Beginners should start with a clean, primed eyelid and use small, light strokes to create a thin line along the upper lash line. Gradually build the line thicker towards the outer corner and fill in any gaps. Practice makes perfect, so keep experimenting to find your preferred technique.

Q4: How do I sharpen a plastic eyeliner pencil?
A4: To sharpen a plastic eyeliner pencil, use a sharpener specifically designed for plastic casings. Freeze the pencil for a few minutes before sharpening to harden the product and reduce breakage. Sharpen gently and slowly to maintain a smooth tip.

Q5: What are some creative ways to use colored eyeliner pencils?
A5: Colored eyeliner pencils can add a fun and unique touch to your makeup. Try tightlining with a vibrant color, applying it to the lower waterline, or creating graphic shapes above your lash line. Layering colored eyeliner over black or brown can also create a striking effect.

Q6: How do I prevent my eyeliner pencil from smudging?
A6: To prevent smudging, use a long-lasting, smudge-proof formula. Applying an eyeshadow primer before your eyeliner can also help it stay in place. Set your eyeliner with a matching eyeshadow to lock in the color and extend its wear time.

Q7: What is the difference between gel eyeliner pencils and regular pencils?
A7: Gel eyeliner pencils have a creamier texture and offer more intense pigmentation compared to regular pencils. They glide on smoothly and are ideal for creating bold, dramatic looks. Regular pencils are typically firmer and provide a more precise line, making them suitable for everyday use.

Q8: How should I store my eyeliner pencils?
A8: Store your eyeliner pencils in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Always replace the cap after use to prevent the tip from drying out. Keep your pencils clean by wiping the tip with a tissue or makeup wipe after each use.

Q9: Can I use the same eyeliner pencil for both my upper and lower lash lines?
A9: Yes, you can use the same eyeliner pencil for both your upper and lower lash lines. However, be mindful of the thickness and intensity of the line to avoid an overly heavy look. You may want to smudge the lower lash line for a softer effect.

Q10: What are some popular brands for eyeliner pencils?
A10: Popular brands for eyeliner pencils include MAC, NYX, Revlon, Urban Decay, and L’Oréal Paris. These brands offer a wide range of options in terms of colors, finishes, and formulas, catering to various preferences and budgets.

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