10 Best Eyeliners for the Waterline to Brighten and Shape Your Eyes
These eyeliners promise to sit in the wettest part of your eye all day long and not smudge.
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The eyes are the window to the soul, so it's fundamental they pop—and what better way to achieve such a look than with eyeliner and mascara? Whether you had a sleepless night or simply want to draw attention to the eyes, eyeliner is the easiest and best way to change your look or shape. While applying eyeliner on your waterline (aka the thin, wet skin between your eyelashes and eye) can draw out the color of your eyes and create a fuller appearance, choosing the right product is very important, as the waterline is a highly sensitive area. You'll want to buy a specific type of eyeliner to avoid irritation, hence why we rounded up 10 of the best that were formulated specifically for your waterline. Bonus: No need to worry about any smudging with these highly rated picks.
Ahead, all the waterline eyeliners that are sure to change your makeup game. Play with smoking out your waterline and adding some darkness for the ultimate sultry look. To widen and brighten up tired eyes, go with a neutral shade or skin-tone liner. And if you want to bring out your eye color, opt to use a complementary color. The best part? All it takes is a quick swipe—that is, if you have the right product. Without further ado, here are 10 of the best pigmented eyeliners that will cling to your waterline from day into night. Your beautifully defined eyes are loading!
Urban Decay 24/7 Waterline Eye Pencil
Urban Decay 24/7 Waterline Eye Pencil
Pros
- 100% cruelty-free
Cons
- Some reviewers noted it isn't sweat-proof
Specifically designed to use on the inner rim in the waterline (hence its name), this creamy demi-matte pencil seamlessly glides on. Bonus: It doesn't contain any mineral oil or preservatives!
NYX Cosmetics Slim Eye Pencil
NYX Cosmetics Slim Eye Pencil
Pros
- There are 31 color options
Cons
- Some reviewers noted it isn't creamy
From seafoam green to black shimmer, there are 31 color options to play with and choose from. No matter your eye color or preferred look, you're sure to find the right shade for you.
UOMA BEAUTY Black Magic 'Coming 2 America' Kajal Eyeliner
UOMA BEAUTY Black Magic 'Coming 2 America' Kajal Eyeliner
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting
- Black-owned beauty brand
Cons
- There is only one color
Inspired by a traditional ancient African eyeliner formula, this highly pigmented, silky-smooth eyeliner can easily be applied to the waterline—and just as easily removed! The color, "purple reign," speaks to the regal and bold look it offers.
Victoria Beckham Beauty Instant Brightening Waterline Pencil
Victoria Beckham Beauty Instant Brightening Waterline Pencil
Pros
- Stays on for up to 8 hours
Cons
- Some reviewers noted it doesn't sharpen well
A neutral pencil that works for all skin tones, the Victoria Beckham Beauty Waterline Pencil is designed to be worn along the waterline to brighten and open the eyes, while toning down redness. Not to mention, it's made of aloe and ginseng to help calm and nourish the skin and lower lashes.
Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof Long-Lasting Eyeliner
Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof Long-Lasting Eyeliner
Pros
- Smudge-proof
Cons
- Pricey
Resistant to water, humidity and oil, this liner is smudge-proof and waterproof. Not to mention, it has a detachable sharpener to ensure an even application process. For a more dramatic look, blend with your fingertips.
milani Supreme Kohl Kajal Eyeliner
milani Supreme Kohl Kajal Eyeliner
Pros
- Some reviewers noted it's great for sensitive eyes
Cons
- Some reviewers noted it's not long-lasting
Want a daring look on a budget? Look no further than to the Kohl Kajal eyeliner. It's as black as can be and perfect if you're striving for drama and edge. Plus, it has a self-sharpening tip!
Fenty Flypencil Longwear Pencil Eyeliner
Fenty Flypencil Longwear Pencil Eyeliner
Pros
- More than 20 colors and finishes
Cons
- Some reviewers noted it was dry and difficult to remove
The smudge-resistant, long-wear liner you've been longing for: Introducing, Rihanna's collection of 20 different shades. Ranging from matte, shimmer, metallic, and glitter, as well as neon, to iconic black, there is a hue for everyone.
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Eye Pencil
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Eye Pencil
Pros
- Some reviewers noted that it's soft and easy to use
Cons
- Limited color options
If you want to try tightlining your upper waterline, consider this richly pigmented pencil your new go-to. It's pointier than a gel liner and can provide a natural or dramatic finish, depending on application.
Laura Mercier Tightline Cake Eye Liner
Laura Mercier Tightline Cake Eye Liner
Pros
- Dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested
Cons
- Requires a brush
This eyeliner is easy to use, though it does require a brush. It's another great option for tightlining, as it transfers smoothly. Another bonus? It's dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested, and appropriate to use with contact lenses.
Charlotte Tilbury The Super Nudes Duo Liner Nude/Brown
Charlotte Tilbury The Super Nudes Duo Liner Nude/Brown
Pros
- Double use as a waterliner and eyeliner
Cons
- Pricey
This black-brown and nude eyeliner duo allows you to play with darkness, light, and shade as you please! If you want brighter-looking eyes, opt for the nude side, and for a glam look, use the darker end.
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