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There are literally thousands of makeup products to choose from, but eyeliner is so many people’s desert island essential for a reason. It’s absolutely mine and I make sure to always have a waterproof iteration in my cosmetics bag. Not only is waterproof eyeliner key to braving humidity and summer rain storms, it’s also smudge-proof and will easily outlast a pool or beach day.
Here, then, are the top contenders for the best waterproof eyeliners, each of which promise to withstand even the most unpredictable weather. Keep in mind that all of these require eye makeup remover to take off at night because they’re waterproof formulas. If they were easily removable, they wouldn’t withstand the elements!
How to select the best waterproof eyeliner
Picking any makeup product is tough, whether it’s mascara, eyebrow pencil, liquid eyeliner, makeup remover or tubing mascara. Selecting the best waterproof eyeliner depends on your personal preferences and makeup style, of course, but there are some other things to keep in mind. If you’re shopping online, read some reviews to see what other users experienced. If you’re shopping IRL, try the eyeliner on your hand or at a makeup counter before you buy it. This will help to ensure you like the color, formula and application.
Formula
Eyeliners come in different formulas and formats, including pencils, pens and pots that require angled brushes. Consider your skill level: Beginners might find a pencil eyeliner easier to use than liquid options.
- Liquid eyeliner: This format is best for sharp wings and precise lines. It offers high pigmentation and long-lasting wear, but it can be trickier for beginners to apply. As I always say, liquid eyeliner can smell fear. You have to put it on with confidence.
- Gel eyeliner: This is my favorite kind for many reasons. It provides a smooth, blendable application for both precise lines and smoky effects. It’s a good middle ground between liquid and pencil.
- Pencil eyeliner: This is the easiest to apply and ideal for smudged eyeliner looks. The bad news is that it may not be as long-lasting as liquid or gel formulas.
Waterproof performance
Look for labels like “waterproof," “long-wear" or “sweatproof." Reviews can also help gauge how well an eyeliner holds up in real-life situations — think humidity, tears or even a dip in the pool.
Additional features
- Color: Classic black is versatile, but there's a world of colorful options available for a bolder look. If you're using colored eyeshadow, consider an eyeliner in a complementary shade.
- Pigmentation: This refers to how opaque and rich the color is. Highly pigmented eyeliners deliver more color payoff with a single swipe.
- Finish: Some eyeliners offer a matte finish, while others have a satin, glossy or metallic sheen. Some formulations also include glitter.
- Cruelty-free and vegan: If these are important considerations for you, many great waterproof eyeliners meet these criteria.
Our top picks for the best waterproof eyeliners
Best waterproof eyeliner for beginners: Wet n Wild Breakup Proof Waterproof Retractable Gel Eyeliner
Wet n Wild Breakup Proof Waterproof Retractable Gel Eyeliner
Makeup artist Ashleigh Ciucci says this one “goes on smooth, stays put and is only $3.99!” This stuff costs less than a soda, provides beautiful color payoff and lasts all night long. Does it get any better than that? It’s also super simple to use, thanks to its gel formula and pencil format.
Specifications
- Formula and type: Gel pencil.
- Color range: Two shades of black.
- Easy to remove: Requires makeup remover.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $3.99.
Pros:
- No sharpener required.
- The very low price!
- Blackest black is a rich, carbon black for black pencil connoisseurs.
Cons:
- Only comes in two shades of black.
- No smudging tool.
The bottom line:
This pencil is ideal for beginners, who can practice to their heart’s content and then replace it for a mere $4.
Get here: Wet n Wild Breakup Proof Waterproof Retractable Gel Eyeliner
Best waterproof eyeliner for color lovers: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
This liner comes in a rainbow of shades, making it perfect for color enthusiasts. It's waterproof, long-lasting and has a creamy texture that blends easily. This is the “O.G. waterproof pencil, it comes in 26 colors!” says Ciucci. I’ve been a fan of this formula for lining my waterline for almost two decades. I always have at least a shade or two of this iconic formula on hand — I especially love Perversion and Whiskey.
Specifications
- Formula and type: Pencil.
- Color range: 26 shades.
- Easy to remove: Requires makeup remover.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $23.
Pros:
- Great for waterline lining.
- Has the most impressive color range.
- Lasts until you remove it.
Cons:
- Requires a sharpener.
The bottom line:
Hailed the O.G. for a reason, this is many makeup enthusiasts’ gateway to waterproof eyeliner — and many use it for life, including me.
Get here: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
Best waterproof gel eyeliner: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
This gel eyeliner offers intense pigmentation and a long-wearing, waterproof formula. It has a smooth gel texture that allows for both precise lines and dramatic effects. “Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Smudge-Proof Gel Eyeliner is a classic for a reason,” says Ciucci. “This cult-fave is super creamy and easy to apply with an angled brush, but sets to last all day.”
Specifications
- Formula and type: Gel.
- Color range: Four neutral shades.
- Easy to remove: You’ll need a makeup remover for this one.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- Price on publish: $36.
Pros:
- Super pigmented and creamy.
- Lasts all day.
- Creates a sharp, precise line.
Cons:
- Requires an oil-based face wash or an eye makeup remover to take off.
- Might take a little practice to apply it with an angled brush.
- Eyeliner brush sold separately.
The bottom line:
I love this gel eyeliner from Bobbi Brown! Use an angled brush for a precise line, and later remove it with your favorite makeup remover.
Get here: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
Best pencil waterproof eyeliner: Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Eyeliner
Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Eyeliner
If unwanted smudging is something you tend to deal with when it comes to waterproof eyeliners, then Thrive Causemetics’ Infinity Waterproof formula is for you. It has what the brand calls Semi-Permanent Micropigments, which help keep it smudge-proof and budge-proof for all-day wear. It features an ergonomically angled smudge tip for super smooth blending, i.e., intentional smudging. It’s also ophthalmologist- and dermatologist-tested, so it won’t irritate even the most sensitive eyes and skin.
Specifications
- Formula and type: Semipermanent pencil.
- Color range: Eight shades.
- Easy to remove: Requires makeup remover.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $24.
Pros:
- Comes in lots of wearable shades.
- Allows for some smudging before it sets.
- Available in matte and shimmer formulas.
- Safe for contact wearers.
Cons:
- Doesn’t come in many bright shades, if that’s what you’re looking for.
The bottom line:
Thrive Causemetics is known for its viral Liquid Extensions mascara, but this fantastic waterproof eyeliner is giving that hero product a run for its money.
Best pen waterproof eyeliner: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
An iconic pen liner with tons of positive reviews for a reason, Stila is one I’ve purchased and repurchased for its easy-to-use pen. With its fine tip and simple-to-control formula, this eyeliner is perfect for creating precise lines and detailed looks. It's waterproof and long-lasting, ensuring your eyeliner stays put all day.
Specifications
- Formula and type: Pen.
- Color range: Black and brown.
- Easy to remove: This one requires a makeup remover, as most waterproof formulas do.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $24.
Pros:
- Creates the most precise lines.
- Lasts all day without smudging.
- Has a tiny felt tip for precision.
Cons:
- Only comes in two shades.
The bottom line:
If you’re cool with a brown or black formula, this eyeliner pen is award-winning for its ability to create a precise, beautiful wing that lasts all day long.
Best waterproof eyeliner for sharp wings: Make Beauty Liquid Line Liquid Liner
Make Beauty Liquid Line Liquid Liner
Don’t sleep on Make: This brand boasts fabulous makeup, and its skincare is a hit. Color range and liquid liner pens are typically mutually exclusive, but Make Beauty has a unicorn with its formula, which comes in a whopping 13 shades, all of which have fun names like Space Camp. I love the navy and gray hues, but the mint is also fun for a pop of color.
Specifications
- Formula and type: Liquid liner pen.
- Color range: 13 shades from bold to neutral.
- Easy to remove: Requires makeup remover.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $23.
Pros:
- Large shade range.
- Super-fine felt tip for precision.
- Doesn’t skip during application.
Cons:
- Not quite as long-lasting as other formulas on this list.
The bottom line:
If you’re doing your makeup for a night out or a dinner and not an all-day event, this formula is your new go-to.
Get here: Make Beauty Liquid Line Liquid Liner
Best budget waterproof eyeliner: Maybelline Tattoo Studio Longwear Eyeliner
Maybelline Tattoo Studio Longwear Eyeliner
“These pencils sharpen easily, glide on smooth and have generous playtime so you have time to perfect,” Ciucci says. “The affordable price point is a plus!” I’m also a fan of all of Maybelline’s waterproof formulas, which provide tremendous value for their wallet-friendly price point. Maybelline is one of my favorite drugstore brands with incredible formulas that feel far more luxe than their prices suggest. Also, a little-known secret in the beauty world: Maybelline is owned by L’Oreal, which shares labs with Urban Decay, Lancome, YSL Beauty and more, so you’re getting similar formulations at a fraction of the cost.
Specifications
- Formula and type: Pencil.
- Color range: 18 shades.
- Easy to remove: Requires makeup remover.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- Price on publish: $6.40.
Pros:
- Wide shade range.
- Low price tag.
- Luxe formula.
Cons:
- No smudging tool.
- Requires sharpening.
The bottom line:
If you don’t need a smudging tool and don’t mind sharpening, this pencil from Maybelline comes in 18 different shades and creates a long-lasting, stunning cat-eye effect.
Best longwear waterproof eyeliner: KVD Tattoo Liner Vegan Waterproof Liquid Liner
KVD Tattoo Liner Vegan Waterproof Liquid Liner
“This pen gives the most snatched of wings,” says Ciucci. “The super sharp tip makes wings a breeze and the formula doesn’t budge!” Personally, I love that this liquid liner doesn’t skip and creates a quick, easy cat-eye that lasts from morning until night. Nothing’s worse than a patchy eyeliner scenario!
Specifications
- Formula and type: Liquid liner.
- Color range: Brown and black.
- Easy to remove: Requires makeup remover.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $25.
Pros:
- Vegan.
- Super sharp tip creates razor-thin lines.
- No sharpening required.
Cons:
- Only comes in two shades.
The bottom line:
This viral vegan waterproof liquid liner pen is super popular for a reason! It allows you to easily create thick or thin lines that last all day long.
Best texture waterproof eyeliner: Clinique Quickliner for Eyes
Clinique Quickliner for Eyes
OK, technically this one is water-resistant, not waterproof, but I love it for its smudgy, sexy effect and silky application. It also comes in black-brown, which is key if you want defined eyes, but have lighter features. The automatic eyeliner pencil twists up and glides on. Best of all, it doesn’t need to be sharpened. It comes with its own smudge tool and gives you a full minute to blend before it sets. I’m also happy that Clinique is finally available on Amazon, making ordering re-ups easy.
Specifications
- Formula and type: Pencil.
- Color range: 11 shades, from neutrals to more bold hues.
- Easy to remove: Yes, this will come off with your cleanser.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- Price on publish: $18.75
Pros:
- Wide shade range.
- Comes with a smudger on the other end so no brushes needed.
- No sharpening required.
Cons:
- Not waterproof, but water-resistant, so avoid swimming.
The bottom line:
This water-resistant formula is so spectacular, it earned a spot on the waterproof eyeliner list. Plus, it comes in black-brown, the perfect shade for those who can’t decide between the two.
Get here: Clinique Quickliner for Eyes
Best waterproof eyeliner for a smokey eye: Tarte Double Take Eyeliner
Tarte Double Take Eyeliner
This one does double-duty beauty! I’m a fan of this double-ended eyeliner, which features a liquid liner on one side and a gel pencil on the other. The liquid liner is perfect for creating a defined line, while the gel pencil can be used to smudge and smoke out the look. Both sides are waterproof and long-lasting.
Specifications
- Formula and type: Liquid and gel.
- Color range: Brown and black.
- Easy to remove: Requires makeup remover.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- Price on publish: $15 (mini size) - $26.
Pros:
- It’s the best of both worlds — liquid and gel in a single product, perfect for lining upper and lower lash lines.
- Lots of pigment.
- Cruelty-free formula.
Cons:
- Only comes in two shades.
The bottom line:
This Amazonian clay-spiked formula offers long wear in a waterproof formula, in two formats on one product.
Get here: Tarte Double Take Eyeliner
How we selected the best waterproof eyeliners
I’m an 18-year beauty writing veteran and I’ve tested a lot of waterproof liners in my day. There are a ton on the market, but I’ve curated this list to include only those that are worthy of creating eye-enhancing magic and are worth the price tag. I’m always finding new favorite waterproof liners, but I have a stable of old go-tos I drew on for this list, as well. I also chatted with longtime makeup artist Ashleigh Ciucci to get her thoughts on waterproof eyeliners and checked tons of reviews to see what real customers thought about each pencil.
How to apply waterproof eyeliner
When it comes to applying waterproof eyeliner, there are a few steps:
Step 1
First, prep your eyelids. For better application and longer wear, start with clean, dry eyelids. Apply a primer if you have oily lids or skin.
Step 2
Sharpen your pencil if necessary. This ensures a sharp tip for precise application, even if you’re going for a blended, smokey look.
Step 3
Start with a thin line. It's easier to build up the thickness than to erase mistakes. Begin with short strokes as close to your lash line as possible, starting from the inner corner and working outward.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Which brand of eyeliner stays on the longest?
From personal experience, I’d say there are two brands that stay on the longest: Bobbi Brown and Urban Decay. “Waterproof pencils are my go-to for a liner that won’t budge,” Ciucci says. “They glide smoothly and set to last all day.”
What is the best eyeliner that won't smudge?
I’m partial to Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Glide-On Eyeliner because of its user-friendly pencil format and rainbow of color options.
How do I get my eyeliner to stay on all day?
Ciucci says to make sure your eyelids are free of any skincare treatments like lotion or oil. “You can even dust your lids with translucent loose powder,” she says. “After you apply your liner, set with a coordinating eyeshadow. Not only will this pump up the pigment but it will also extend the life of your liner.”
Read more: How to remove waterproof mascara without losing your lashes
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
