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Whether or not you call it a nod to the 2010s, one thing's clear: Our trusty eyeliner pencils have made a grand return to the waterline. The best waterline formulas glide on with ease, offering a simple way to define and enhance, says London-based makeup artist Vincent Ford. Whether brightening your eyes à la white eyeliner or adding drama with a rich, deep shade, this technique instantly amplifies the vibe. And with waterproof liner options that refuse to smudge on even the most teary-eyed makeup wearers, this lineup proves its staying power. With just one swipe, it's basically the quickest, easiest way to add extra oomph to any makeup look. Think of it as a small effort with a big payoff.
Our Top Waterline Eyeliners
- Best Overall: Kulfi Beauty Underlined Kajal Eyeliner, $20
- Most Glidable Formula: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner, $34
- Most Versatile: Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil, $29
- Best Waterproof: Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Waterline Eyeliner Pencil, $23
- Best Long-Wearing: Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel, $17
- Best for the Inner Eye: Stila Stay All Day Smudge & Set Waterproof Gel Liner, $23
- Best for Sensitive Eyes: Make Up For Ever Aqua Resist Color Pencil, $25
Whether you're looking to brighten your eyes with a shade of white or nude, complement your baby blues with a shimmery copper, or intensify your look worthy of Avril Levigne in the aughts, there's a waterline eyeliner for you below, vetted by Allure editors and makeup artists.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of eyeliner is best for the waterline?
- Is it okay to put eyeliner on your waterline?
- What is the difference between tightlining and waterline eyeliner?
- How do you keep your eyeliner from smudging on the waterline?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: Kulfi Beauty Underlined Kajal Eyeliner
Why we love it: With one swipe of the incredibly pigmented Kulfi Underlined Kajal it's clear why it claims our top spot and is a two-time Best of Beauty Award winner. The smooth, stay-put formula—two prerequisites for a legit waterline eyeliner—is just the beginning. What really sets this apart are the bold, vibrant shades with striking Jungle Gems green and earthy Tiger Queen terra-cotta catching our eyes (pun intended). The twist-up pencil makes for practicality and once applied you'll have about 20 seconds to play with your look before it fully sets for the day. Expect it to stay vibrant and intact for hours with no fading by hour 12.
Tester's feedback: "Just a few quick strokes are all I need to define my eyes with Kulif's pigmented eyeliner (no wonder it's an Allure Best of Beauty Award-winning formula)," commerce writer Jen Hussein says. "A quick tip: for a longer-lasting, budge-proof look, I wipe my waterline with a Q-tip, then swipe on this liner, and finally use a black eye shadow powder as a tinted setting powder of sorts. It never fails to keep smudging at bay."
Key ingredients: aloe vera, vitamin E, safflower seed oil | Shades: 8
Most Glidable Formula: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner
Why we love it: The luxe Victoria Beckham Kajal Liner is a favorite of Ford's for its blendable texture that holds up when set, offering incredible versatility. Line your waterline and enjoy all-day wear, thanks to the waterproof formula, or smudge its buttery texture onto your lid after tightlining. It's available in three finishes—matte, shimmer, and jewel (a light-catching step up from shimmer)—and each offers a unique look. Ford also assures us that irritation won't be a concern for most skin types because the formula's soothing chamomile, hydrating pro-vitamin B5, and protective vitamin E are all excellent ingredients for sensitive skin. Insider secret: Victoria Beckham loves and wears Cocoa, a rich, matte brown, on the day-to-day.
Tester's feedback: "The Satin Kajal Liner was already good—a buttery-smooth formula that never skips or pulls, the ability to draw a super-precise line or smudgy wash of color—but it's a winner for my waterline. I swear my eyes look whiter and brighter and the waterproof color lasted all day."
Key ingredients: chamomile, vitamin E, pro-vitamin B5 | Shades: 20
Most Versatile: Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil
Why we love it: Waterline eyeliners have to deal with a lot—constantly exposed to moisture, they're made to stay put all day in a tricky environment. The catch? Because of this, most formulas set fast, leaving little room for blending or adjustment. Enter Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel, which gives you ample time to blend and build your look. Whether you're going for a smoky eye (a major vibe for 2025 trends) or a sharp, defined line, this eyeliner lets you create any style before it dries down to a formula similar to liquid eyeliner.
Tester's feedback: "Tightlining is probably the number one trick I learned over the years that completely transformed my eye makeup routine. My eyes are big and round, so adding a bit of black liner to my upper waterline makes my lashes look thicker and my eyes look a bit more narrowed and less doe-like," says commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann. "I've tried my fair share of liners and the Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel liners are, unsurprisingly, the gold standard. It's miraculous how long they last against my very watery eyes and they're so versatile that I can easily execute a range of looks with just one pencil. I'm using Extreme Black in the photos above because ILD (I love drama), but Blk Coffee is also a great option for a more natural finish."
Key ingredients: antioxidants, dimethicone | Shades: 5
Best Waterproof: Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Waterline Eyeliner Pencil
Why we love it: Teary-eyed folks, alas, the eyeliner you've been waiting for: one that can handle the days filled with the most waterworks without any signs of smudging. Designed specifically for the inner rim of your eye, Urban Decay's 24/7 Waterproof Waterline Eyeliner Pencil lends an ultra-smooth glide that ensures no tugging, while a single swipe delivers rich, intense pigment. Ford is a fan, too, praising its ability to maintain vibrant color from the moment it's applied until hours later—so laugh, cry, and blink as much as you want. No need for touch-ups, either.
Tester's feedback: "Don't get me wrong: I love my Asian eyes (elementary school bullies, calling you out!), but I'm never opposed to an eye-opening effect. I've been known to apply glitter liner underneath my lower lash lines but hadn't experimented with my waterline until I tried Urban Decay's 24/7 waterline pencil," says commerce editor Sarah Han. "I like popping on Faux Doe, a shimmery light beige (above), or Hemp Milk (classic matte white) for subtle, cute definition. I'm wearing the Waterline Eyeliner in Tootsie as a regular liner, but perhaps I'll use that to try a more dramatic tightlining look next."
Key ingredients: vitamin E, jojoba oil, cottonseed oil | Shades: 7
Best Long-Wearing: Inglot Gel Eyeliner
Why we love it: Makeup lovers will appreciate this iconic Inglot formula that still reigns supreme—a true rite of passage for any professional makeup artist. Both Miami-based makeup artist Natalie Dresher and Ford rank this as a top pick for the waterline, with Ford calling it a pro artist's staple and Dresher adding, "It really is bulletproof." Thanks to the butter-like gel texture, you can easily tightline and line your upper and lower eyes, using a thin, angled makeup brush for precision. The formula's deep, pigmented colors deliver an intense payoff, ensuring your look stays bold and defined throughout the day.
Editor's tip: Thanks to its impressive staying power, this eyeliner can be a bit stubborn to remove. Incorporate an oil-based cleanser to break down the formula and make sure to rub gently.
Key ingredients: trimethylsiloxysilicate, isododecane, cyclopentasiloxane | Shades: 25
Best for the Inner Eye: Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner
Why we love it: Dresher swears by this Stila formula for lining the inner eye. You can smudge it out for that grungy, lived-in look that's been super trendy lately, she says, but once they're set, they're locked in. Available in matte and shimmer finishes that have the perfect hint of pearlescent sheen, these liners double as an eye shadow base you can smoke out or a classic waterline liner. The best part? They won't crease, fade, or disappear halfway through the day. Testers noted the liner stayed put even after they rubbed their eyes.
Editor's tip: To go from day to night, stack two shades of eyeliner on top of one another.
Key ingredients: vitamin C, vitamin E, dimethicone | Shades: 8
Best for Sensitive Eyes: Make Up For Ever Aqua Resist Color Pencil
Why we love it: If you're chasing a waterline eyeliner that won't budge—whether you're a contact lens wearer, have ultrasensitive eyes, or simply tear up at everything—Make Up For Ever's aptly named formula is the one to beat. Ophthalmologist-tested and completely waterproof, it's a savior for delicate eyes and humid days alike. Ford swears by its all-day wear and versatility, offering richly pigmented mattes and light-catching pearlescent shimmers. It combines the sharp, polished finish of a liquid liner with the smooth, forgiving glide of a gel.
Editor's tip: Wear whatever color speaks to you, but if you have brown or green eyes try the purple pearlescent shade 9-Ivy on your waterline. It will make your eyes pop.
Key ingredients: dimethicone, trimethylsiloxysilicate | Shades: 7
Best Brightening: Nyx Professional Makeup Jumbo Eye Pencil
Why we love it: A white eyeliner is like a magic wand for your eyes instantly making them look wider, brighter, and more awake. And our favorite pick happens to be only $6 and available at most local drugstores. Enter Nyx Professional Makeup Jumbo Eye Pencil in White, a staple of the past, but recently reintroduced into cult status ever since Alix Earle put it back on the radar. It's one of the creamiest eyeliners on the market making it super easy to apply and basically foolproof. Use it on your waterline, as an eye shadow base, or dab it in the corners of your eye for an instant pop. It's the easiest and most affordable trick for a tired-eye fix.
Editor's tip: If you have a medium to deep skin tone and want something a bit more subtle, opt for the shade Iced Latte.
Key ingredients: vitamin E | Shades: 16
Best Drugstore: L'Oréal Paris Infallible Grip Mechanical Gel Eyeliner Pencil
Why we love it: This budget-friendly gem offers all the standout features of its pricier counterparts but at a fraction of the cost. The retractable gel formula of L'Oréal Paris's Infallible Grip boasts a super-slim tip, ensuring an easy glide along your eyes without any skipping or tugging. It's also very versatile. Need a softer look? The built-in smudger makes blending easy, so you can quickly transition from a precise line to a smoky finish. The real star is the shade range. Turquoise is very pigmented, complements every eye color, and looks especially stunning on deeper skin tones.
Editor's tip: To sharpen the tip for ultraprecision, put a tissue on a flat surface and gently spin and drag the pencil until it comes to a sharper point.
Key ingredients: dimethicone | Shades: 8
Best Brown: Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil
Why we love it: Before we dive in, let's get one thing clear: This isn't technically a waterproof liner. That said, it wouldn't make our list unless it seriously performed. Dresher is a fan, calling it a super long-wearing formula and her go-to for clients' waterlines. Aptly named, Dresher says the shade The Perfect Brown is the best brown she has yet to find. Just like brown mascara, brown eyeliner offers a softer definition for days when you don't want the heaviness of black. Created by Mario Dedivanovic (yes, the genius behind Kim Kardashian's most iconic looks), this dual-ended liner comes with a custom brush that blends the gel-like formula before it locks into place.
Editor's tip: The eyeliner includes a built-in sharpener to ensure the tip stays on point all the time. For added convenience, it has a detachable cleaning stick to prevent shavings from getting stuck.
Key ingredients: vitamin E | Shades: 5
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of eyeliner is best for the waterline?
When it comes to choosing the best eyeliner for your waterline, the key is to find a formula that's waterproof, smooth, and gentle enough for the delicate inner rim of your eye. London-based makeup artist Vincent Ford emphasizes the importance of a waterproof formula that glides on without tugging. This ensures precision and comfort while minimizing the chance of smudging throughout the day.
Is it okay to put eyeliner on your waterline?
Generally speaking, it's fine to put eyeliner on your waterline on occasion. To keep your eyes happy and healthy, Ford says to stick to liners specially formulated for the waterline and try not to apply them every day. Like all your makeup, always remove it thoroughly before bed to prevent irritation—an oil-based cleanser will do the trick!
Just keep in mind that the waterline houses important oil glands which can become blocked if you overdo it, potentially causing dryness or discomfort. If you have sensitive eyes or existing conditions, it's best to skip it altogether. Otherwise, follow Ford's advice and save waterline looks for special occasions, avoid using old or dried-out liners that can flake into your eyes, and toss old products that can introduce bacteria. Your eyes will thank you.
What is the difference between tightlining and waterline eyeliner?
The difference is where and how the eyeliner is applied. According to Ford, “Tightlining is when you apply eyeliner to the base of your upper lashes to create a fuller lash look, whereas waterline eyeliner focuses on the inner rim of the eye.” He says that tightlining is a subtler and more natural way to enhance the lash line, whereas lining the waterline adds definition to the eyes.
How do you keep your eyeliner from smudging on the waterline?
To extend your eyeliner's wear time and avoid smudges, Ford recommends prepping the area by ensuring it's dry before application. The safest way to do this is with a clean Q-tip that you very gently roll over your waterline, making sure to avoid touching your actual eye. For maximum staying power, he suggests lightly setting the liner with matching powder eye shadow or layering a gel liner if you use a pencil base.
Meet the experts
- Vincent Ford is a makeup artist in London.
- Natalie Dresher is a makeup artist in Miami.
How we test and review products
Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is the packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?
For our review of the best waterline eyeliners, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and makeup artists. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product's performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete review process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine. You may simply be browsing for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our articles. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from are folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we're able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
Our trend reporters are predicting extra-glam eye looks for 2025. Bring the bold eye back with our sparkly, smoky makeup faves:
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- 8 Best Eye Shadow Singles Allure Editors Refer to as “One-Swipe Wonders”
Now, watch a cosmetic chemist guess which eyeliner is more expensive:
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