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10 Best Smudge Proof Eyeliners 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8  score

Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, Smudge-Proof, Eye Makeup with Built-In Sharpener, 201 Black, 2 pack

Formula: waterproof, smudge-proof, resists fading
Waterproof: Yes
Pigmentation: rich and intense
Application Tip: pencil with sharpener and smudger
Longevity: up to 24 hours
Ease of Removal: needs good makeup remover

Chosen by 1102 this week

Clinique Quickliner For Eyes | Water Resistant, Smudge Resistant + Safe For Sensitive Eyes, New Black, 1 Count

Formula: smooth, transfer-resistant
Waterproof: water-resistant
Pigmentation: rich
Application Tip: automatic, no sharpening needed
Longevity: long-lasting
Ease of Removal: needs good makeup remover
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, Smudge-Proof, Eye Makeup with Built-In Sharpener, 201 Black, 2 pack

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,102
Formula
Waterproof
Pigmentation

Most important from
37250 reviews

Formula
High-quality formula that lasts long and feels gentle, avoiding any discomfort during wear.
Waterproof
The waterproof formula truly holds up, maintaining a fresh look from morning to night.
Pigmentation
Glides on smoothly with rich, bold color that stays vibrant all day without smudging or fading.
Application Tip
Built-in sharpener ensures precise application for both sharp winged and soft smoky looks.
Ease of Removal
Soft texture allows easy application without irritation, making it comfortable even on sensitive eyes.

The Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner in Black is a solid choice if you want an eyeliner that stays put throughout the day. Its formula is waterproof, smudge-proof, and designed to resist fading, promising up to 24 hours of wear. This makes it especially good if you need your eye makeup to last long without needing touch-ups. The pigmentation is rich and intense, providing a bold black color that looks fresh from morning to night.

Application is easy thanks to the pencil’s smooth glide and the built-in sharpener helps maintain a precise tip for defining your eyes. It also includes a smudger, which gives some flexibility if you want to blend for a softer look. The matte finish is a classic choice that suits many styles. Being ophthalmologist tested, it’s safe and comfortable even on the waterline, which is a plus for sensitive eyes.

Since it is waterproof and long-lasting, it may require a good makeup remover to take off comfortably without rubbing too hard. This eyeliner is well-suited for those who want a dependable, intense, and long-wearing pencil with easy application and some blending options.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,102
Formula
Waterproof
Pigmentation

Most important from
37250 reviews

Formula
High-quality formula that lasts long and feels gentle, avoiding any discomfort during wear.
Waterproof
The waterproof formula truly holds up, maintaining a fresh look from morning to night.
Pigmentation
Glides on smoothly with rich, bold color that stays vibrant all day without smudging or fading.
Application Tip
Built-in sharpener ensures precise application for both sharp winged and soft smoky looks.
Ease of Removal
Soft texture allows easy application without irritation, making it comfortable even on sensitive eyes.
#2

Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, Smudge-Proof, Eye Makeup with Built-In Sharpener, Packaging May Vary, 203 Brown, 0.01 oz

Rating
9.6
Formula
Waterproof
Application Tip

Most important from
37250 reviews

Formula
This eyeliner pencil is creamy and glides on smoothly, delivering bold color with just one swipe.
Waterproof
It's waterproof, easy to use, and doesn’t run, making it one of the best I've tried.
Application Tip
Doesn't smear even with watery eyes, and it's easy to apply on the waterline with a smooth glide.
Longevity
Stays in place all day without smudging or fading, even on the waterline, making it a staple in my makeup routine.

The Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner is a solid choice if you’re looking for a long-lasting, smudge-proof option. Its waterproof formula ensures that the eyeliner stays put for up to 24 hours, making it ideal for an all-day wear without worrying about touch-ups. The pigmentation is intense and the eyeliner glides on smoothly, allowing for easy application and the creation of various looks, from defined lines to more dramatic styles like winged or cat eyes.

The built-in sharpener and smudger are convenient features that help in maintaining a precise tip and blending for a smoky effect when needed. However, while the longevity and smudge-proof attributes are impressive, some users might find it slightly challenging to remove at the end of the day due to its strong staying power. The eyeliner is available in 8 shades, providing options to suit different preferences. It’s a versatile and reliable eyeliner for those who need a durable and smudge-proof makeup solution, but be prepared to use a good makeup remover to wipe it off completely.

Rating
9.6
Formula
Waterproof
Application Tip

Most important from
37250 reviews

Formula
This eyeliner pencil is creamy and glides on smoothly, delivering bold color with just one swipe.
Waterproof
It's waterproof, easy to use, and doesn’t run, making it one of the best I've tried.
Application Tip
Doesn't smear even with watery eyes, and it's easy to apply on the waterline with a smooth glide.
Longevity
Stays in place all day without smudging or fading, even on the waterline, making it a staple in my makeup routine.
#3

Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, Smudge-Proof, Eye Makeup with Built-In Sharpener, 202 Black Brown, 0.01 oz

Rating
9.4
Formula
Waterproof
Application Tip

Most important from
37250 reviews

Formula
Glides on smoothly with a creamy texture, delivering bold color in just one swipe.
Waterproof
Reliable waterproof formula that doesn’t run or flake, even for contact lens wearers.
Application Tip
Smooth, easy application with a precise tip that works well for delicate areas.
Longevity
Stays in place all day without smudging or fading, even on the waterline.

The Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner is designed to deliver a rich, long-lasting color that resists smudging, fading, and water throughout the day. Its waterproof formula and transfer-proof claim mean it should hold up well even in humid or watery conditions, making it a solid choice for those needing reliable wear. The pigmentation is intense, providing bold lines that can easily shift from subtle to dramatic looks.

A handy built-in sharpener helps maintain a precise tip, which is useful for detailed application, while the included smudger offers some blending versatility, though it might be limited given the strong staying power. The eyeliner is ophthalmologist tested, so it’s safe and comfortable enough for sensitive areas like the waterline. In terms of ease of removal, products with high waterproof and long-wear formulas sometimes require a dedicated makeup remover, potentially making cleanup less quick or gentle compared to non-waterproof liners.

The metallic finish adds a unique touch but may not suit everyone’s preference if they want a totally matte look. This eyeliner is an excellent pick for users seeking a dependable, smudge-proof option with intense pigment and convenient features, especially if you want your eye makeup to last all day without frequent touch-ups.

Rating
9.4
Formula
Waterproof
Application Tip

Most important from
37250 reviews

Formula
Glides on smoothly with a creamy texture, delivering bold color in just one swipe.
Waterproof
Reliable waterproof formula that doesn’t run or flake, even for contact lens wearers.
Application Tip
Smooth, easy application with a precise tip that works well for delicate areas.
Longevity
Stays in place all day without smudging or fading, even on the waterline.

Buying Guide for the Best Smudge Proof Eyeliners

Choosing the right smudge-proof eyeliner can make a significant difference in your makeup routine. A good smudge-proof eyeliner will stay in place all day, resist smudging and smearing, and help you achieve the look you desire. When selecting an eyeliner, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are the key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.
FormulaThe formula of an eyeliner determines its texture, application, and staying power. Smudge-proof eyeliners come in various formulas such as gel, liquid, pencil, and cream. Gel and liquid formulas are known for their long-lasting and intense color, making them ideal for dramatic looks. Pencil eyeliners are easier to control and are great for everyday use, while cream formulas offer a blendable option for softer looks. Choose a formula based on your application preference and the look you want to achieve.
WaterproofWaterproof eyeliners are designed to resist water, sweat, and tears, making them ideal for long-lasting wear. This spec is important if you need your eyeliner to stay put through various conditions, such as humid weather or physical activity. If you have oily eyelids or plan to wear your eyeliner for extended periods, a waterproof option will help prevent smudging and fading. Look for eyeliners specifically labeled as waterproof for the best results.
PigmentationPigmentation refers to the intensity of the color that the eyeliner delivers. High-pigmentation eyeliners provide bold, vibrant lines with just one stroke, while lower-pigmentation options may require multiple layers to achieve the desired effect. If you prefer a striking, defined look, opt for a highly pigmented eyeliner. For a more subtle, natural appearance, a less pigmented product may be more suitable. Consider your personal style and the occasions you'll be wearing the eyeliner to determine the right level of pigmentation for you.
Application TipThe application tip of an eyeliner affects how easily and precisely you can apply it. Eyeliners come with various tips, including felt tips, brush tips, and pencil tips. Felt tips offer precise control and are great for creating sharp lines and winged looks. Brush tips provide flexibility and are ideal for creating both thin and thick lines. Pencil tips are user-friendly and versatile, suitable for both beginners and experienced users. Choose an application tip that matches your skill level and the type of looks you want to create.
LongevityLongevity refers to how long the eyeliner stays in place without fading or smudging. This is a crucial spec for those who need their makeup to last all day or through special events. Long-wearing eyeliners are formulated to stay put for extended periods, often up to 12 hours or more. If you have a busy schedule or need your eyeliner to last from morning to night, look for products that advertise long-lasting wear. Consider your daily routine and how long you typically need your eyeliner to stay fresh when making your choice.
Ease of RemovalWhile it's important for an eyeliner to stay put, it's equally important that it can be easily removed at the end of the day. Some smudge-proof and waterproof eyeliners can be challenging to remove, requiring special makeup removers. If you prefer a hassle-free removal process, look for eyeliners that are labeled as easy to remove or that can be taken off with regular makeup remover. Consider your skincare routine and how much time you're willing to spend on makeup removal when selecting an eyeliner.

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