Waterproof eyeliners are a game changer. But there is one teeny tiny little tip – if it lasts. We are sure that you have been a victim of makeup melting away at least once in your life. Especially the eyeliner you so precisely applied only to find later that it has smudged or half of it has faded, thanks to sweat or you washing your face.
While we love when things melt, there are some exceptions. One such thing is makeup. We all want makeup that lasts, be it rain or shine. But how can you ensure it stays in the wake of hot, blazing, or humid weather? It’s simple, get waterproof makeup products!
Waterproof eyeliners are not formulated with your typical formulas as they are made to last amid all water activities. Be it a dip in the swimming pool, mercilessly being tortured from the heatwave, a tear-jerking session on the couch after watching your favorite episode, or going on a run. Your eyeliner will stay regardless of what comes your way. From gel liners to liquid pens and pencils like kohls, make room for ultra waterproof eyeliners in your makeup routine.
Comparing the High-Quality Waterproof Eyeliner of 2023
Maybelline New York Hyper Easy Waterproof Liner — Best Overall
Maybelline always tops the game when it comes to delivering top-notch drugstore products. This Hyper Easy Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner by Maybelline New York has pitch black pigmentation that glides smoothly on your eyes. With a revolutionary flex brush tip, swipe the liner starting from the corner of your upper inner lid to the outer ends of your eyes, and voila. You get a finely applied look without any chances of blending away.
This pick has a hexagonal shape, which offers more control and a stable grip for easy application. This liner lasts up to 24 hours – all you need to kick-start your day. Its ultra-precision tip doesn’t slip or skip. With this hyper-easy eyeliner, it’s time to fulfill all your fantasies of smokey eyes, subtle lines, or custom brow looks. This is the best overall product on our list due to its smoothest lines that make your eyes shine.
Pros
- Flex tip brush molds to the shape of eyes
- Easy to apply
- Stays for long
Cons
- It may dry out quickly
Stila Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner — Best for Oily Lids
Available in two gorgeous colors, intense black and dark brown, this Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner is worth every penny. Its felt tip glides smoothly on your eyes to give a matte finish. The best part, it is always ready to use and needs no sharpening. From beginners to pros, this pick is for all.
This product is ophthalmologist tested, which makes it ideal for sensitive eyes. This liner is also cruelty-free. So if you are big on using these products, this liner will be your best friend. Even if you have watery or oily eyes, this liner, with its smudge-proof element, will not disappoint you. You can pull everything from applying a thin line to a bold bat-winged shape for dramatic effect. Grab this liner now and see for yourself how it transforms you.
Pros
- It’s transfer proof
- Gives a precise, smooth application
- Thin felt tip makes it easy to give a winged line
Cons
- Removing the liner may require a little effort
L’Oreal Paris Infallible Waterproof Eyeliner — Best Color Range
This L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Pencil Eyeliner is cult-favorite. Like all others from this credible brand, this product outdid itself regarding performance. It comes in 12 gorgeous colors and is perfect for all looks. Be it a casual hangout with your friends or getting ready for a fancy date, you can never go wrong with this drugstore darling.
Apply a single stroke of this liner on your top or bottom lash line, and voila. Its rich and creamy texture glides on super easily. If you want to give your eyes a perfect look, you so dearly fascinate about, get this liner and be ready to embrace your dreams.
Pros
- Lasts up to 24 hours
- Also suitable for the waterline
- Easy to remove
Cons
- The pencil might be difficult to sharpen
Bobbi Brown Gel Waterproof Eyeliner — Best Splurge
Are you obsessed with professional makeup artists whose liners are so on point that you just can’t stop staring? This Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner is one such product that is so smooth to apply and gives picturesque lines. Even you will be amazed by the precision and finish of this beauty. While gel eyeliners are tough to crack and require a little more experience, this pick is extraordinary as even newbies can create a perfect lined look.
The application process is seamless as it glides easily and dries instantly. Also, like other gel liners, you don’t have to worry about this getting clumped up on your brush. This product stays true to its claim of lasting for long hours and gives a super dramatic effect to your eyes.
Pros
- Comes in four colors
- Is cruelty-free
- Has a metallic finish
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a brush
NYX Professional Liquid Waterproof Liner — Best for Bold Looks
Are you telling me you don’t have this epic liner in your bag? Seriously, what are you waiting for? This NYX Professional Liquid Waterproof Liner is not only highly pigmented but is also super intense. It delivers bold matte lines that make you stand out in the crowd. With a flexible brush, this liner is easy for flicks and lets you apply just the right swoosh to give that perfect winged eyeliner. Available in eight beautiful shades, black, brown, lilac, sapphire, stone fox, yellow, and brilliant white, this liner is your go-to makeup product for creating a minimal to classic look.
Coming right to the amazing part, this pick is semi-perm, which means it is for the eyes and the face. So gear up to unleash your inner artist and put all your tattoo fantasies true. Also, if you are an animal lover, we found another reason for this pick to be your ultra-favorite. It is cruelty-free, so you can rest assured and slay all the looks without feeling guilty about harming animals.
Pros
- Has high-quality
- Doesn’t smudge or transfer
- Gives a matte finish
Cons
- Doesn’t comes off easily
Buying Guide: Waterproof Eyeliners
The first thing to consider in a good waterproof eyeliner is how lasting it is. Next comes the format of the liner. How do you decide which type is good for you? You also want to make sure that the liner stays true to its claims of being smudge and flake-proof. When there is so much to consider, it can be overwhelming. So to help you out, we have curated this buying guide that covers all the aspects you should look out for in eyeliner shopping.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Waterproof Eyeliner
Here’s a list of all the things to keep an eye out for when you’re on an eyeliner hunt.
Formula type
Waterproof eyeliners are available in a variety of formulas. Each has its beauty, from pencils to crayons to liquid pens and gel pots. While what you choose depends highly on your preferences and skills, if you are a beginner, we would suggest starting your journey with a pencil or crayon liner. They are easiest to apply and offer a good grip. But if you are confident about your makeup skills, it would be high time to go with liquid or gel eyeliners.
How much time does eyeliner take to dry?
The longer the time, the more the chances of your liner blending into your eyes. So a good waterproof eyeliner must dry quickly to avoid smudging or flakiness for a smooth, precise look.
Color range
Most eyeliner brands come in natural shades of black and brown for your everyday look. But if you want to be creative and play around, there are liners available in various shades that you can try out to give your eyes a dramatic flare.
Ease of removal
While you desire your eyeliners to be long-lasting, there should not be an intense struggle when it’s time to remove them. Some liners are hard to remove and require a little more effort. A good eyeliner is one that is easy to apply and take off.
That being said, the ideal way to remove waterproof eyeliners is to soak the cotton pad with eye makeup remover and gently wipe it over the liner. It should come off early without any residue left. Another great option is the use of micellar water or cleansing balm. The oils in them break down the waterproof ingredients, thus ultimately making the removal of the makeup easy. Follow it with your regular cleanser or face wash to achieve squeaky clean eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do if I get waterproof eyeliner in my eye?
A. Anytime you get anything in your eyes, flush it out with water to avoid any irritation. If you still feel uncomfortable or experience an itch in your eyes, schedule an appointment with your physician and follow the care prescribed.
What is the lifespan of waterproof eyeliners?
Liquid or gel eyeliners should be thrown out after three to six months of use. On the other hand, pencil or crayon liners last easily up to a year.