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Film strips with selfies of people smiling after having applied get eyeliner

Source images:Allureeditor(s); Collage: Laneen Wells

Hussein before 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.

Kulfi Beauty Underlined Kajal Eyeliner pink eyeliner pencil on light gray background with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right corner

Jen Hussein applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More.

Why it’s worth it:A deep black, blendable liner that actually stays put on your waterline?

That’s why Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil is such a keeper.

Hoffmann before applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil.

Selfie of Hussein before applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More.

Hussein before applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More.

Hoffmann after applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil in Extreme Black.

It dries down quickly and lasts right up until the point you take makeup remover to it.

The shade range covers matte and satin finishes, meaning theres something for every look.

Selfie of Hussein after applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More.

Hussein after applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More.

Trakoshis before applying the Kosas Soulgazer Eyeliner.

Trakoshis after applying the Kosas Soulgazer Eyeliner in Allure.

Then using my almond-shapedacrylics, I wing it out.

Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil black eyeliner pencil on light gray background

Sarah Hoffmann applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil in Extreme Black.

There’s no worry of smudgingeven if I cry, it lasts.

Bobbi Browns creamy, inky, and totally smudgeless Long-Wear Smudge Proof Gel Eyeliner.

Go for classic black or brown, or experiment with bolder hues like a rich turquoise or bright white.

Selfie of Hoffmann before applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil.

Hoffmann before applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil.

Shades:2 |Finish:soft |Waterproof?yes

What are the benefits of a gel eyeliner?

Makeup artistKasey Spickardswears by gel eyeliners, using them exclusively on his clients.

However, once they set, they don’t budge."

Selfie of Hoffmann after applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil in Extreme Black.

Hoffmann after applying Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil in Extreme Black.

Beyond their versatility, gel eyeliners are also a win for sensitive eyes.

Less tugging, less discomfort, and an effortlessly smooth program.

How should I choose a gel eyeliner?

Jones Road Gel Liner in branded component on a light gray background

Kara McGrath applying the Jones Road Gel Liner

When choosing your perfect gel eyeliner, Spickard suggests that you consider categories like pigment load and workability.

He adds that a highly wearable, no-budge finish is also essential.

Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones?

Selfie of McGrath before applying the Jones Road Gel Liner

McGrath before applying the Jones Road Gel Liner

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 its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?

Selife of McGrath after applying the Jones Road Gel Liner

McGrath after applying the Jones Road Gel Liner

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 completereviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase.

Stila Smudgestick in branded component on a light gray background

Nicola Dall’Asen applying Stila’s Stay All Day Smudge & Set Waterproof Gel Eye Liner

Selfie of Dall’Asen before applying Stila’s Stay All Day Smudge  Set Waterproof Gel Eye Liner

Dall’Asen before applying Stila’s Stay All Day Smudge & Set Waterproof Gel Eye Liner

Selfie of Dall’Asen after applying Stila’s Stay All Day Smudge  Set Waterproof Gel Eye Liner

Dall’Asen after applying Stila’s Stay All Day Smudge & Set Waterproof Gel Eye Liner

Kosas Soulgazer Intensifying Gel Eyeliner in branded component on a light gray background

Allureshopping editor Angela Trakoshis applying the Kosas Soulgazer Eyeliner in Allure.

Selfie of Trakoshis before applying the Kosas Soulgazer Eyeliner.

Trakoshis before applying the Kosas Soulgazer Eyeliner.

Selfie of Trakoshis after applying the Kosas Soulgazer Eyeliner in Allure.

Trakoshis after applying the Kosas Soulgazer Eyeliner in Allure.

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Smudge-Proof Gel Eyeliner in branded component on a light gray background

Ilia Clean Line Gel Eyeliner in branded component on a light gray background

L’Oréal Paris Infallible Grip Mechanical Gel Eyeliner in branded component on a light gray background

MAC Fluidline Eyeliner & Brow Gel in branded component on a light gray background