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Think of it as a small effort with a big payoff.
Source images:Allureeditors; Collage: Laneen Wells
The smooth, stay-put formulatwo prerequisites for a legit waterline eyelineris just the beginning.
Expect it to stay vibrant and intact for hours with no fading by hour 12.
Hussein before applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More.
Jen Hussein applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More.
Hussein after applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More.
It never fails to keep smudging at bay."
Insider secret:Victoria Beckhamloves and wears Cocoa, a rich,matte brown, on the day-to-day.
Hussein before applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More.
Pai before applying Victoria Beckham Kajal Liner.
Pai after applying Victoria Beckham Kajal Liner in Jeans.
I swear my eyes look whiter and brighter and the waterproof color lasted all day."
Hussein after applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More.
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.
Hoffmann before applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil.
Deanna Pai applying Victoria Beckham Kajal Liner in Jeans to her waterline.
Hoffmann after applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil in Extreme Black.
No need for touch-ups, either.
Han before applying Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Waterline Eyeliner Pencil.
Pai before applying Victoria Beckham Kajal Liner.
Han after applying Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Waterline Eyeliner Pencil in Faux Doe.
), but I’m never opposed to an eye-opening effect.
They won’t crease, fade, or disappear halfway through the day.
Pai after applying Victoria Beckham Kajal Liner in Jeans.
Testers noted the liner stayed put even after they rubbed their eyes.
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.
Sarah Hoffmann applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil in Extreme Black.
And our favorite pick happens to be only $6 and available at most local drugstores.
It’s one of the creamiest eyeliners on the market making it super easy to apply and basically foolproof.
It’s the easiest and most affordable trick for a tired-eye fix.
Hoffmann before applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil.
It’s also very versatile.
Need a softer look?
The real star is the shade range.
Hoffmann after applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil in Extreme Black.
Turquoise is very pigmented, complements every eye color, and looks especially stunning on deeper skin tones.
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.
Sarah Han applying Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Waterline Eyeliner Pencil in Faux Doe.
Aptly named, Dresher says the shade The Perfect Brown is thebest brownshe has yet to find.
Key ingredients:vitamin E |Shades:5
What kind of eyeliner is best for the waterline?
London-based makeup artistVincent Fordemphasizes the importance of a waterproof formula that glides on without tugging.
Han before applying Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Waterline Eyeliner Pencil.
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.
Han after applying Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Waterline Eyeliner Pencil in Faux Doe.
Like all your makeup, always remove it thoroughly before bed to prevent irritationanoil-based cleanserwill do the trick!
If you have sensitive eyes or existing conditions, it’s best to skip it altogether.
Your eyes will thank you.
What is the difference between tightlining and waterline eyeliner?
The difference is where and how the eyeliner is applied.
How do you keep your eyeliner from smudging on the waterline?
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?
This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions.
For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our completereview process and methodology page.
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