5 best long lasting eyeliners that stay smudge-proof and flawless all day. Perfect for any occasion, these eyeliners offer intense color.
Introduction
When it comes to eyeliner, we all want something that can keep up with us throughout the day – no smudging, no fading, and definitely no touch-ups! Whether you’re aiming for a bold cat-eye or a subtle line to define your lash line, a long-lasting eyeliner is key to keeping your look fresh from morning to night. Here’s a roundup of the 5 best long-lasting eyeliners that beauty enthusiasts swear by. These picks not only offer intense pigment but also hold up against sweat, humidity, and all-day wear. Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Waterproof Eyeliner?
A waterproof eyeliner isn’t just for the pool or a tearful occasion. Here’s why you might consider adding one to your daily makeup routine:
- Long-lasting wear – These eyeliners are designed to hold up against water, oil, and sweat, which translates to all-day wear.
- Resilient in all weather – Rainy UK days don’t stand a chance with waterproof eyeliner.
- Perfect for different looks – Whether you want a soft, smudgy look or a precise line, waterproof eyeliners give flexibility with added staying power.
- Ideal for oily lids – If your eyelids tend to get oily, a waterproof formula can prevent smudging and melting.
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
Standout Feature: Known for its intense pigmentation and waterproof formula, this liner lives up to its “Stay All Day” promise.
Why You’ll Love It: This eyeliner has a felt-tip applicator that gives you control, whether you’re doing a fine line or a dramatic wing. It’s a classic choice for those who want a bold, long-lasting look that won’t budge, even in humid or sweaty conditions.
Pros:
- Rich, pigmented color
- Waterproof and smudge-proof
- Smooth application
- Comes in a range of shades
Cons:
- Can dry out if not properly closed
- The felt tip can fray over time
Best For: Those who want a precise, dramatic, long-lasting line that won’t smudge or fade.
Price: Around $23.
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
Standout Feature: This award-winning eyeliner is renowned for its creamy, blendable texture and wide range of shades.
Why You’ll Love It: The 24/7 Glide-On Pencil combines the easy application of a pencil with the staying power of a gel. The soft, creamy formula is gentle on the eyes, making it great for a quick swipe of color or a more intricate, smoky look.
Pros:
- Long-lasting with a waterproof formula
- Glides on smoothly with a creamy texture
- Ideal for smudging and blending
- Comes in 38 shades with matte, shimmer, and metallic options
Cons:
- Needs frequent sharpening
- Might smudge slightly on very oily skin
Best For: Anyone looking for versatility in application—perfect for creating a smokey eye or for those who love experimenting with colors.
Price: Approximately $25.
Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner
Standout Feature: This drugstore gel eyeliner is known for delivering intense color that rivals high-end brands.
Why You’ll Love It: The Lasting Drama Gel Liner combines bold color payoff with an affordable price tag. Its gel formula makes it easy to create precise lines, and it’s particularly good for those who like a softer finish than a liquid liner can offer.
Pros:
- Great pigmentation
- Smudge-proof and water-resistant
- Budget-friendly
- Comes with an applicator brush
Cons:
- Can dry out in the pot if not sealed tightly
- Brush may need regular cleaning for best results
Best For: People on a budget who still want high-quality, long-lasting results.
Price: Around $10.
Kat Von D Beauty Tattoo Liner
Standout Feature: Known for its ultra-precise brush tip and ink-like finish, the Tattoo Liner is a favorite for creating bold, artistic eye looks.
Why You’ll Love It: The brush tip is unique—it’s made of individual bristles rather than a felt tip, allowing for extremely precise application and versatility. The formula is long-lasting, waterproof, and highly pigmented, making it ideal for those who want a liner that can handle intense days.
Pros:
- Brush tip offers precision and control
- Long-lasting and waterproof
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Smudge-proof and fade-resistant
Cons:
- Pricier than some alternatives
- Takes a little practice for beginners
Best For: Precision lovers who want a liner that can last through busy days without smudging.
Price: Around $23.
NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner
Standout Feature: The NYX Epic Ink Liner is a drugstore favorite, with a formula that rivals high-end options in terms of longevity and pigmentation.
Why You’ll Love It: This liner has a fine, flexible brush tip that allows for thin or thick lines, making it adaptable for any look. It’s waterproof and has a rich black formula that dries quickly, preventing any unwanted smudging or transfer.
Pros:
- Affordable
- High pigmentation with a smooth application
- Waterproof and smudge-resistant
- Brush tip allows for versatile line thickness
Cons:
- May run or bleed slightly on oily lids without primer
- Cap needs to be tightly closed to prevent drying
Best For: Those looking for an affordable, high-quality liquid liner that performs similarly to high-end products.
Price: Around $10.
How to Choose the Right Waterproof Eyeliner
When it comes to finding the perfect waterproof eyeliner, here are some key factors to consider:
Price: There are fantastic options across all price points. Find one that suits your budget without sacrificing quality.
Application Type: Do you prefer pencils, gels, or liquid liners? Each has its pros and cons depending on the look you’re after.
Color Selection: While classic black is essential, a good range of colors can make your eyeliner versatile.
Longevity: Waterproof is one thing, but some liners last longer than others. Look for claims of 12+ hours of wear.
Popular Eyeliner Styles
- Cat Eye
- A classic winged eyeliner look where the liner extends out and upward at the outer corners of the eyes. It’s a bold, flattering style that elongates the eyes.
- Tightline
- Applying eyeliner to the waterline (the inner rim of the eyelid) creates the illusion of thicker lashes and makes the eyes appear larger and more defined.
- Smokey Eye
- This style involves blending eyeliner with eyeshadow for a softer, sultrier look. It’s typically used with dark tones and a more blended, smudged effect.
- Double Wing
- For a more dramatic look, add a second wing below the main cat eye wing. This gives a unique, edgy effect.
- Graphic Liner
- A modern twist on eyeliner, where bold geometric shapes or lines are drawn on the eyelid for a creative, statement-making look. It’s often paired with eyeshadow or used as a standalone design.
- Lower Lash Line Liner
- Apply eyeliner to the lower lash line, sometimes paired with eyeshadow for a more sultry, smoky appearance. This style can be done with pencil, gel, or liquid liners.
Easy Steps for a Perfect Eyeliner Application:
- Prep Your Lids
Apply an eyeshadow primer to create a smooth base. This helps your eyeliner last longer and prevents it from smudging. - Choose the Right Eyeliner
For a precise line, use liquid or gel eyeliners. For a softer look, opt for a pencil eyeliner. - Line Your Upper Lash Line
Start from the inner corner and work your way to the outer corner. Keep the line as close to your lashes as possible for a more natural look. - Create the Wing (Optional)
For a winged eyeliner, tilt your head slightly back and use the eyeliner to draw a small line extending from the outer corner of your eye. Then, connect it to your upper lash line in a smooth curve. - Tightline (Optional)
For extra definition, you can line the waterline (the area just below the upper lashes). Be gentle here to avoid irritation. - Smudge for a Smoky Effect (Optional)
If you want a more dramatic look, gently smudge the eyeliner using a smudging brush or cotton swab to create a smoky effect. - Finish with Mascara
Apply a coat or two of mascara to finish the look and make your eyes pop.
How to Remove Waterproof Eyeliner Easily
- Use a Micellar Water:
- Micellar water (e.g., Bioderma Sensibio or Garnier SkinActive) is great at breaking down waterproof makeup. Soak a cotton pad with micellar water and gently press it onto your eyelids for a few seconds before wiping away the eyeliner.
- Oil-Based Makeup Remover:
- Opt for an oil-based remover (e.g., Clinique Take The Day Off, Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover) that dissolves waterproof formulas. Gently massage it onto your eyelids and lashes, then wipe off with a cotton pad.
- Cleansing Balm or Oil:
- A cleansing balm or oil, like Banila Co Clean It Zero or DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, can break down waterproof eyeliner quickly. Apply a small amount to dry skin, massage, and rinse with warm water.
- Coconut Oil:
- Natural and effective, coconut oil can break down waterproof makeup. Warm a small amount in your hands and gently massage it around your eyes. Wipe away with a soft cloth or cotton pad.
- Makeup Removing Wipes:
- Look for waterproof makeup-specific wipes, such as Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes. These wipes are designed to remove tough formulas like waterproof eyeliner. Simply wipe across the eyes until clean
Frequently Asked Questions about Long Lasting Eyeliners
- What makes an eyeliner long lasting?
Long-lasting eyeliners are usually formulated to be waterproof or smudge-proof, helping them adhere well to the skin and resist fading due to oils, sweat, or tears. - Is waterproof the same as long lasting?
While not identical, waterproof eyeliners tend to last longer since they’re resistant to moisture. However, a product can be long-lasting without being fully waterproof if it’s high-quality and smudge-proof. - Are gel eyeliners longer lasting than pencils or liquids?
Gel eyeliners often have great staying power due to their consistency, but waterproof liquid eyeliners can also last long. The best option depends on the specific formulation of the product. - What’s the best way to remove long lasting eyeliner?
Oil-based makeup removers are effective at breaking down long-lasting or waterproof eyeliner without causing too much irritation to the delicate eye area. - Can I wear long lasting eyeliner if I have sensitive eyes?
Yes, but choose hypoallergenic or sensitive-eye-friendly products. Testing a small area first can help ensure it doesn’t cause irritation. - How can I make my eyeliner last even longer?
Applying an eyeshadow primer or setting the liner with a matching powder can help keep it in place and absorb excess oil to prevent smudging. - Can I use long lasting eyeliner on my waterline?
Yes, but look for waterproof and ophthalmologist-tested formulas to ensure safety and long wear on the waterline. - What’s the best eyeliner for oily eyelids?
A waterproof, smudge-proof formula, like a gel or waterproof liquid liner, generally stays put better on oily eyelids. - How do I prevent my eyeliner from smudging throughout the day?
Use a waterproof or long-lasting liner, and consider setting it with a matching powder or using an eyeshadow primer to reduce oil buildup. - Is liquid eyeliner more long lasting than pencil?
Waterproof liquid eyeliners are often longer-lasting and more smudge-resistant than pencils, though there are waterproof pencils that perform similarly. - Can I find good long lasting eyeliners at the drugstore?
Yes, brands like NYX, Maybelline, and L’Oréal offer affordable long-lasting eyeliners that rival higher-end options. - Why does my eyeliner fade quickly?
Factors like oily skin, frequent blinking, or touching your eyes can cause eyeliner to fade. Using primer or setting with powder can improve longevity. - What’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant eyeliner?
Waterproof liners are designed to withstand heavy moisture, while water-resistant liners can handle some exposure but may not hold up to tears or heavy sweating. - How can I make my eyeliner look natural but long lasting?
Use a thin line close to the lash line with a soft pencil or gel and blend it slightly. Setting it with a matching eyeshadow can add subtle staying power. - Do long lasting eyeliners work for smoky eyes?
Absolutely. Apply and blend them out slightly before they set for a smoky look that will stay in place throughout the day. - Are there any drawbacks to long lasting eyeliners?
They can be harder to remove and may cause dryness with daily use. A gentle makeup remover and moisturizing around the eyes can help. - Can I use liquid eyeliner for a long lasting tightline?
Most liquid liners aren’t recommended for the waterline due to potential irritation; gel or pencil liners are better choices for tightlining. - Why is my eyeliner not lasting even with long lasting products?
This could be due to oils, slippery skincare products, or not allowing the liner to set. Using powder or primer can improve results. - Does long lasting mean it won’t flake?
Not necessarily. Some long-lasting formulas may flake, especially if applied thickly or if they dry out. Finding a formula that works with your skin is essential. - What’s the best way to apply gel eyeliner for it to last all day?
Apply with a thin brush for precision, letting each layer dry before adding more for intensity. Setting it with a matching eyeshadow can add durability. - Can I reapply long-lasting eyeliner during the day?
Yes, but it’s often best to remove and reapply, especially with waterproof formulas, to avoid a patchy look. - Are vegan and cruelty-free options available in long lasting eyeliners?
Yes, brands like Urban Decay, Kat Von D, and NYX offer vegan and cruelty-free long-lasting eyeliners. - What eyeliner colors are available in long lasting formulas?
You can find everything from classic black and brown to bold shades like blue, green, and metallics, so there’s a wide range for every style. - Does a long lasting eyeliner mean it won’t smudge at all?
Long-lasting eyeliners are less likely to smudge, especially if waterproof or smudge-proof, but primers and setting powders can help further reduce smudging. - Is it safe to wear long lasting eyeliner every day?
Yes, as long as it’s removed gently at night and you choose a non-irritating formula - How do I remove waterproof eyeliner? Waterproof eyeliners can be stubborn, so it’s best to use an oil-based makeup remover or micellar water designed for waterproof makeup. Gently press a cotton pad soaked in the remover against your eyelids, allowing it to break down the eyeliner before wiping it away.
- Are waterproof eyeliners safe for sensitive eyes? Most waterproof eyeliners are formulated to be safe for sensitive eyes, but it’s always wise to check if they are hypoallergenic or ophthalmologist-tested. Avoid harsh removers if you have sensitive eyes.
- Can I use waterproof eyeliner on my waterline? Yes, many waterproof eyeliners work well on the waterline. Just ensure the formula is labeled safe for waterline use to avoid irritation.
- How can I prevent waterproof eyeliner from smudging? A few tips to keep your eyeliner intact include using an eyelid primer, applying setting powder, and avoiding excessive touching of your eye area throughout the day.
Conclusion
finding a long lasting eyeliner under $25 is achievable, with options ranging from gels to liquid liners, each offering a unique blend of pigmentation, durability, and ease of application. Whether you prefer bold strokes or precise lines, these affordable eyeliners provide excellent wear without sacrificing quality. Each product listed ensures lasting definition for a variety of eye looks, making them ideal for both everyday wear and special occasions.