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Prime Waterproof Eyeliners of 2025
If the eyes are the home windows to the soul, nobody desires theirs framed by eyeliner that’s midway down their cheeks by noon. That’s the place the most effective waterproof eyeliners earn their place in each make-up bag — whether or not you’re a fan of an inky gel, a exact liquid, or a smooth-gliding pencil.
In spite of everything, there’s little level in crafting the right doe eye or siren gaze along with your favourite eyeshadow palette and mascara if the liner doesn’t maintain up. Right this moment’s finest waterproof mascaras are designed to withstand smudging, transferring, or feathering, making them clutch for high-stakes days — from vacation spot weddings to long-haul flights — in addition to sweatier situations like snowboarding, swimming, or your go-to Pilates class.
“Waterproof eyeliners are most brides and bridal make-up artists’ go-to eyeliner choice as a result of they forestall smudging and smearing,” says Drita Paljevic, head make-up artist at Kevyn Aucoin Magnificence. “Such a eyeliner will final on oily pores and skin, teary eyes, and through 100-degree climate.”
They’re not only for emotional moments or energetic days, both. Waterproof formulation might be game-changing for particular methods. “I really like utilizing an ideal waterproof eyeliner on the water line,” Paljevic notes. “This system gives you a really dramatic and lifted-eye look.”
So what separates them from customary liners? Paljevic explains that waterproof choices usually include silicone or acrylate polymers, which assist pigment grip the pores and skin for much longer than conventional formulation. That’s why an everyday eyeliner could smudge or fade because the day goes on, whereas a water-resistant model “can solely be smudged whereas nonetheless moist however is not going to budge after it’s accomplished drying,” she explains.
With professional perception, intensive product testing, and analysis into the highest-rated picks, we’ve rounded up the most effective waterproof and smudge-proof eyeliners to maintain your look locked in from morning latte to final name.
Editor’s Alternative: Prime 3 Waterproof Eyeliners of 2025
Waterproof eyeliners span from creamy Kajal pencils to highly-pigmented liquid formulation. The system sort is a private choice (pencils are finest for a smudged out look, whereas liquids create sharp strains), so our testers chosen three finest waterproof eyeliners moderately a singular finest general. The under waterproof eyeliners outperformed the remaining throughout testing of their straightforward utility and talent to resist rain, swimming, and sweating.
- Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner: Our choose for the most effective waterproof eyeliner pencil, this luxury system glides on effortlessly with out tugging and blends out superbly for each sharp definition and delicate, smudged appears. Regardless of its ultra-smooth texture, it units in place and lasts all day with out fading, making it a beginner-friendly alternative.
- Stila Keep All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner: Incomes high marks as the most effective liquid waterproof eyeliner, our testers had been extremely impressed by the opacity and endurance of this liner. The tapered felt tip can create tremendous to thick strains with ease, and we didn’t expertise any transferring or feathering throughout 12 hours of damage time.
- Moist n Wild Megalast Breakup-Proof Liquid Eyeliner: The very best drugstore waterproof eyeliner our editors examined is that this $6 discover from Moist n Wild. What’s notable about this eyeliner is its brush tip — this characteristic permits you extra precision and adaptability than the felt ideas you’ll discover on most different drugstore eyeliners. Count on it to remain put for a full 12 hours with out flaking or smudging.
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WWD Store editors check Victoria Beckham’s finest waterproof eyeliners.
WWD/ Adam Mansuroglu
Editor’s alternative
Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner
Components sort: Pencil
Shade vary: 11 shades
Particular options: Comprises chamomile extract for calming pores and skin, panthenol for hydration, and softening vitamin E
$34
$34
This waterproof pencil pairs an ultra-creamy texture with spectacular longevity, making it simply pretty much as good for exact strains as it’s for a subtle, smoky impact. The system glides on easily with out tugging and blends effortlessly earlier than setting into place, whereas the hooked up smudger makes it straightforward to melt edges or construct dimension. As soon as it’s dry, it stays put via lengthy days and late nights. Select from matte and metallic shades that span from traditional black and brown to extra sudden colours like mauve and burgundy.
Editor testing and evaluate notes: “Clumping was a typical challenge with most of the pencil eyeliners I examined, nevertheless the fluid glide of Victoria Beckham’s waterproof eyeliner handed the clump check with flying colours. Count on severe shade payoff and a wealthy, satin end that appears as luxurious as this pencil feels within the hand.” — WWD Store contributing commerce editor Claire Sullivan
Worth upon publish date of this text: $34
Editor’s alternative
Stila Keep All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
Components sort: Liquid
Shade vary: 5
This longwear, waterproof liquid eyeliner is among the many most talked-about merchandise by Sephora Magnificence Insider Group members, with over 7,000 five-star critiques. Obtainable in 5 shades with a matte end, this system is quick-dry and guarantees no smudges, feathering, or working. Plus, its skinny precision tip makes it straightforward to make use of particularly for rookies. Professional tip: Gently pull on the higher nook of your eye to frivolously stretch the realm whilst you apply — this makes it simpler to create the right line and reduces the potential of the system to bleed.
Editor testing and evaluate notes: “I’d advocate this eyeliner to a newbie, because the felt tip applicator simplifies the method of making exact strains. It received’t run down your face for those who cry or get caught within the rain, however as you apply its very straightforward to scrub up your cat eye with out dragging at your pores and skin. It lives as much as its ‘Keep All Day’ claims and has lasted me months of use.” — Former WWD Store author Olivia Cigliano
Worth upon publish date of this text: $24
Editor’s alternative
Moist n Wild Megalast Breakup-Proof Liquid Eyeliner
Components sort: Liquid
Shade vary: One
Particular options: Cruelty-free system
This inexpensive waterproof eyeliner belongs in your equipment for those who want a high-definition eye look that may stand up to rain, sweat, and glad tears. Many budget-friendly liquid eyeliners include felt ideas, however Moist n Wild’s Breakup-Proof Liquid Eyeliner has a brush tip as a substitute, which tapers out as you apply it for softer, extra managed strokes. Even higher, the liquid itself guarantees to remain put for as much as 16 hours; it’s solely flaw lies in just a little additional elbow grease required to take away it. You could possibly take a bathe on this eyeliner and towel off along with your cat-eye intact — it’s that waterproof.
Editor testing and evaluate notes: “For the value, I wasn’t anticipating Moist n Wild’s liquid eyeliner to have such an opulent really feel after I swiped it on. I’m a giant fan of the liner’s brush tip that tapers right into a super-fine level; I can tight-line my lashes or apply just a little stress for a chunkier liner look. As a result of it’s so long-lasting, you’ll want a heavy-duty eye make-up remover to totally rinse it off.” — Sullivan
Worth upon publish date of this text: $5.47
Charlotte Tilbury Rock ‘n’ Kohl Eyeliner
Components sort: Pencil
Shade vary: Six
Particular options: Obtainable in matte and metallic shades
This newly reformulated waterproof eyeliner strikes a steadiness between the sleek glide of a kohl liner and the management of a conventional eye pencil. Its richly pigmented system delivers a {smooth}, even line in a single move, with simply sufficient time to mix or soften earlier than setting right into a budge-resistant end.
Our testers famous that the built-in smudger makes diffusing edges easy, creating every part from sharp definition to a lived-in, smoky impact. Obtainable in a flexible vary of matte and metallic shades, it’s designed to swimsuit quite a lot of eye colours and kinds — whether or not you’re after delicate daytime definition or a daring, statement-making look.
Editor testing and evaluate notes: “This pencil’s texture is noticeably firmer than many kohl liners we’ve tried — but that slight resistance is a characteristic, not a flaw. This enables for higher management and precision, making it an particularly nice waterproof eyeliner for tight-lining. You may map out actual, clear strokes alongside the waterline with out worrying about slips or uneven utility.” — Sullivan
Worth upon publish date of this text: $32
Nyx Skilled Make-up Epic Ink Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
Components sort: Liquid
Shade vary: Two
Particular options: Vegan system
This waterproof liquid eyeliner finishes in a sultry matte end and is ideal for nailing that mysterious cat eye look. Identified for its exact tip, you’ll be able to simply management the thickness of your eyeliner by gently urgent down to assist obtain both a pure or daring make-up look.
Editor testing and evaluate notes: “For years, I’ve been reaching for Nyx at any time when I want a very waterproof eyeliner. Winged eyeliner is a continuing in my make-up routine, and this system is ink-black and stays put — to the purpose of needing just a little elbow grease to take away it after an extended day of damage. It’s survived a swim, bathe, and even a severe cry on the movie show; the pigments stayed pristine for a whopping 14 hours throughout testing. The pen applicator is tremendous straightforward to maneuver, and, mixed with its dependable endurance, you’ll be able to’t beat the value.” — Cigliano
Worth upon publish date of this text: $9.63
Dior Present On Stage Kohl Crayon Liner
Components sort: Pencil
Shade vary: Eight
Particular options: Comes with a sharpener and encompasses a smudger
This waterproof kohl pencil is accountable for the signature Home of Dior smoky eye. Its creamy texture simply glides on and blends alongside the lash and waterline for a versatile look. Due to its sturdy shade payoff and smudge-proof system, that is the perfect choose for humid temps and likewise makes top-of-the-line waterproof eyeliners for swimming.
Editor testing and evaluate notes: “In comparison with the opposite waterproof eyeliners I evaluated throughout testing, Dior’s beat out the remaining in its capacity to face as much as publicity to water and humidity. I’ve oily eyelids, so I sometimes gravitate to liquid eyeliners as I’ve discovered that they’re much less prone to switch to my lid throughout put on. Dior’s Kohl Crayon Liner stayed put in addition to my favourite waterproof liquid eyeliner, however provided up extra play time for me to finesse a delicate cat eye after making use of the pigment. Bonus factors for the built-in smudging tip and sharpener.” — Sullivan
Worth upon publish date of this text: $35
Kosas Soulgazer Intensifying Waterproof Gel Eyeliner
Components sort: Gel
Shade vary: 10
Particular options: Consists of smudging tip and sharpener
Kosas’ Soulgazer Gel Eyeliner is the most effective software we examined for a delicate cat-eye flick. The pencil is thinner than your favourite lip liner and has a buttery-smooth glide, which makes fine-lining your lashes a breeze. As a result of it gives about 30 seconds of playtime earlier than it units, you’ll be able to shortly smudge it for a smokey look or drag the outer nook of your liner up and out in the direction of your brows for a delicate flick. An included smudging software and sharpener permit you to do exactly that with out additional instruments or cotton swabs for clear up.
Editor testing and evaluate notes: “I’m usually not one for a press release eye look, however when Kosas’ eyeliners landed on my desk, I discovered myself gravitating in the direction of the colourful shades. Sure, you’ve impartial choices like black and brown, however there’s additionally a stunning emerald and a fairly deep blue that invite some playfulness into my in any other case easy eye routine. The gel goes on like butter, and it’s straightforward to combine a number of shades for a extra customized liner look.” — Sullivan
Worth upon publish date of this text: $24
City Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil
Components sort: Pencil
Shade vary: 37
Particular options: Comprises vitamin E to hydrate and moisturize and jojoba and cottonseed oils to situation and soften pores and skin
Obtainable in 37 colorways in addition to finishes together with matte, shimmer, satin, metallic and glitter, the make-up look potentialities of this City Decay waterproof eyeliner are countless. Infused with vitamin E, jojoba oil, and cottonseed oil, this eyeliner is a good choose for mature or dry pores and skin, as these components purpose to moisture, situation, and soften the pores and skin. Each waterproof and smudge-proof, this high waterproof eyeliner pencil has a creamy system that simply glides on and blends to create a variety of appears.
Editor testing and evaluate notes: “Every time I want a pencil liner restock, I make a beeline to City Decay. The black shade is extremely pigmented — together with the brown and purple colours I’ve tried from the road — and effortlessly glides onto my eyelid or waterline in a {smooth}, opaque line. It’s preferrred for smudgy eyeliner appears too, as a result of its creamy texture offers tons of playtime to simply mix. It lasts all day lengthy, although, you probably have significantly watery eyes or put on contacts like me, I like to recommend utilizing a little bit of setting powder on the outer corners of the eyes as I’ve seen slight smudging on occasion.” — Cigliano
Worth upon publish date of this text: $23
finest waterproof gel eyeliner
Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner
Components sort: Mechanical pencil
Shade vary: 14
Particular options: Features a retractable tip and a removable sharpener
With a retractable tip, this Chanel eyeliner stays on level with frequent makes use of. Each water- and smudge-proof, the delicate, creamy texture of this pencil imparts shade in a {smooth}, even line. For the most effective utility, use quick, feathery strokes and keep near the lash line for sharp definition and thicker-looking lashes.
Editor testing and evaluate notes: “Chanel’s waterproof eyeliner earned the best marks for glide out of the entire liners we examined — this gel-like system applies like butter. The retractable applicator sharpens the liner with each click on, holding a tremendous sufficient level to wedge in between lashes or coat your waterline with out overdoing it. This waterproof eyeliner can be top-of-the-line for a press release eyeliner shade; the offbeat shade choices are elevated, not costume-y.” — Sullivan
Worth upon publish date of this text: $35
Mac Cosmetics Brushstroke Liquid Eyeliner
Components sort: Liquid
Shade vary: Two
Particular options: Tapered-tip pen
A waterproof system is ideal for anybody who doesn’t wish to stress over creating the right line. The tapered-tip brush makes means for a pointy, fast, and easy utility and permits for an ideal thick or skinny line. Smudge-proof as nicely, this eyeliner leaves an intense shade that may be simply eliminated at dwelling with heat water.
Editor testing and evaluate notes: “I used to be instantly impressed by how shortly I may create a clear, crisp line with this eyeliner. There’s one thing about its brush tip that’s not too lengthy, however not too quick, which permits me to have snug management over each stroke. It deposits a wealthy, black pigment that units to a matte end, and, in contrast to different liners I’ve tried, doesn’t cake up after I wish to go in with a second layer or repair the form of my wing. It’s straightforward to take away with a make-up wipe or face cleanser, however It doesn’t budge or smudge all through the day.” — Cigliano
Worth upon publish date of this text: $25
Kulfi Magnificence Underlined Kajal Clear Waterproof Lengthy-Put on Eyeliner
Components sort: Pencil
Shade vary: Six shades
Particular options: Comprises aloe vera extract for a creamy texture and vitamin E to moisturize
Extremely rated for its shade and longevity, this eyeliner is available in six shades, three of which have a shiny end whereas the opposite three have a shimmer end. Whereas this eyeliner is waterproof, it totally units inside 20 seconds. So if you’re making a wing or smokey look make sure you work shortly earlier than it dries. After 20 seconds, this kajal liner turns into waterproof, smudge-proof, and drag-proof.
Editor testing and evaluate notes: “Kulfi’s waterproof eyeliner is our high choose for assertion liner appears — you’ll be able to hint shapes, construct it up, and sheer it out simply as a result of system’s 20 seconds of malleability after utility. The mix of a tremendous tip and a surprisingly emollient system make this waterproof eyeliner one of many best to use and work with, even for those who don’t have a gentle hand.” — Sullivan
Worth upon publish date of this text: $20
The way to Take away Waterproof Eyeliner
Having a water-resistant eyeliner with endurance is wonderful, however taking it off would possibly require a number of additional steps. Paljevic advises that one of the best ways to take away waterproof eyeliner “is through the use of an oil-based eye make-up remover.” It will assist to loosen every part up and prevent the pointless scrubbing. Should you’re utilizing a liquid oil-based remover, it’s useful to saturate a cotton spherical within the remover and gently press it onto your eye for a number of seconds earlier than wiping. One other good way is through the use of the double cleaning methodology: Gently cleaning your face with an oil-based balm earlier than moving into with a liquid cleanser will go away your eyes squeaky clear. Nonetheless, for individuals who have delicate pores and skin, Paljevic recommends consulting a dermatologist first or utilizing a trusted product that’s dermatologist-tested and accredited.
What to Contemplate When Choosing the Finest Waterproof Eyeliners
- Components varieties: Eyeliner is available in all totally different types and discovering your favourite will boil down to non-public choice. For a exact tremendous level, liquid liner is your finest wager, however it’s additionally not the best to make changes to for those who’re not well-versed. “Liquid eyeliner generally is a bit difficult for newbies as there isn’t a wiggle room when making use of,” says Paljevic. “As soon as it’s on the pores and skin, there’s no budging or transferring it round.” Different system varieties like “kohl and pencil eyeliners are simpler to use in a {smooth} line and are sometimes extra forgiving.” Paljevic additionally notes that kohl and pencil eyeliners are nice to use to the water line so as to add a dramatic look.
- Ophthalmologist-tested formulation: Should you’re liable to sensitivity, it’s value searching for out formulation which have been examined by an ophthalmologist. It will be certain that irritants are refrained from your eyes.
- Dry time: The period of time it takes for a system to dry might be each a optimistic and a unfavourable. Should you’re in a rush, a system that takes without end to set would possibly go away room for accidents. Nonetheless, in case your system takes some time to dry and you’ve got the time to spare it might be helpful for correcting any errors too. However sometimes for those who’re already a professional, search for one thing that’s fast-drying to save lots of you time and stress.
- Ease of elimination: It’s well-known that the pores and skin round our eyes is extremely delicate so it’s vital to take care when eradicating eye make-up, particularly waterproof eyeliner. Nobody desires to tear out their lashes within the course of. So whereas these merchandise are made for longwear, having an ideal oil-based make-up remover is a should when working with waterproof eyeliner.
How We Examined and Chosen the Finest Waterproof Eyeliners
Our testing panel included two WWD Store editors and one magnificence author who examined a complete of 39 waterproof eyeliners mixed to slender down this record of the most effective choices. The testers included two contact lens-wearers, one tester with watery eyes, and a tester with seasonal allergic reactions. We examined these waterproof eyeliners on numerous eye shapes, together with hooded eyes, creating appears that vary from tight strains to daring cat eyes.
We started the analysis course of with an interview with make-up professional Drita Paljevic, who shared recommendations on what to search for in an ideal waterproof eyeliner. Utilizing her experience, we pulled collectively a listing of liners to check throughout liquid, pencil, and gel formulation, in addition to finishes from matte to shimmery.
To guage these waterproof eyeliners, our testers wore the formulation throughout high-intensity train, in steam rooms, and whereas shedding some glad tears to find out how nicely the product holds as much as humidity and publicity to moisture. Together with this, we thought-about the under standards throughout testing:
WWD Store editor Claire Sullivan swatches gel, liquid, and pencil waterproof eyeliner formulation to evaluate glide, shade payoff, and ease of elimination.
WWD/Claire Sullivan
- Ease of utility: Eyeliner is notoriously precarious to use, and with waterproof formulation, a shaky hand can create a multitude on the lid that’s laborious to scrub up. Our testers paid shut consideration to how these waterproof eyeliners utilized when freshly opened and after a number of makes use of, noting if the applicator dried out in addition to flagging points like product clumping. The waterproof eyeliners on our record earned their spot partially as a consequence of their delicate, even glide.
- Coloration payoff: The very best waterproof eyeliners will deposit opaque, even shade in a single swipe. Our panel ensured that every liner on our record achieves the specified pigment depth on the primary move. Any liners that required touch-ups for a good line had been lower from our record.
- Residue after elimination: One of many downsides to waterproof eyeliner is the darkish residue it usually leaves in its wake after elimination. Throughout testing, our panel timed how lengthy it took to totally take away the liner with a primary make-up remover and heat water. Any that required extra scrubbing after two passes with make-up remover didn’t make our record.
Meet the Testers
Claire Sullivan is a contributing commerce editor for WWD, the place she writes and edits magnificence, style and life-style tales. She has over six years of expertise as a author and editor for nationwide media retailers together with Martha Stewart Dwelling, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She retains her finger on the heartbeat of all issues associated to magnificence and wellness, in addition to the most recent buying tendencies and clothes manufacturers. Sullivan has been reporting on the wonder trade since 2018, throughout which she’s examined dozens of pencil, gel, and liquid waterproof eyeliners.
Olivia Cigliano is the previous Commerce Author & Producer at Footwear Information and WWD the place she wrote buying content material throughout style, magnificence, footwear, TikTok model tendencies, and extra. Cigliano acquired her bachelor’s diploma in journalism from Emerson Faculty, and her byline might be present in publications together with Elite Every day and CR Vogue Guide.
Meet the Professional
Drita Paljevic is the pinnacle make-up artist at Kevyn Aucoin Magnificence with greater than 20 years of expertise within the trade. Paljevic is skilled in bridal make-up, so she’s well-versed in choosing the highest waterproof eyeliners that {photograph} superbly and don’t smudge via glad tears, wind, and rain.
Meet the Authors
Jamie Wilson is a New York-based magnificence author and editor. Previous to going freelance and contributing to manufacturers like Glamour, she beforehand held the title of magnificence editor at Harper’s BAZAAR writing each print and digital options, development tales, superstar interviews, and canopy tales. Wilson researched, reported, and wrote this text on the most effective waterproof eyeliners, additionally contributing to product testing for the story.
Claire Sullivan is a contributing commerce editor for WWD, the place she writes and edits magnificence, style and life-style tales. She has over eight years of expertise as a author and editor for nationwide media retailers together with Martha Stewart Dwelling, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She retains her finger on the heartbeat of all issues associated to magnificence and wellness, in addition to the most recent buying tendencies and clothes manufacturers. Sullivan contributed to the August 2025 replace of this text on the most effective waterproof eyeliners after a 3rd spherical of product testing.
