The Ultimate Guide to the Best Liquid Eyeliners for Every Eye Look
Discover the top liquid eyeliners, expert tips, and application secrets for flawless, long-lasting looks on any eye shape.
The Best Liquid Eyeliners of 2025: Editor-Tested Picks for Every Style
Finding a liquid eyeliner that delivers sharp lines, stays put all day, and flatters your unique eye shape can feel as daunting as searching for the perfect pair of jeans. With countless formulas, tips, and finishes to choose from, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. This guide breaks down the highest-performing liquid eyeliners, with expert tips and real-world testing insights, to help you find your next beauty must-have.
Why Choose Liquid Eyeliner?
- Precision: Achieve crisp, bold lines or delicate flicks with fine-tipped applicators.
- Longevity: Many formulas are designed to last all day without smudging or fading.
- Versatility: Opt for bold black, subtle brown, or colorful liners to match your mood or occasion.
- Eye-Enhancing: A well-placed liner can define eyes, make lashes look fuller, and elevate any makeup look.
Expert-Recommended Liquid Eyeliners: Top Picks
After testing dozens of liquid and gel formulas, beauty editors and makeup pros singled out these standout liners for their performance:
1. espressoh hi_liner
- Price: £20
- Best for: Smudge-proof, waterproof wear
- Why We Love It: The flexible nib dispenses the ideal amount of pigment, making microscopic flicks easy and ink jams a thing of the past. Both smudge-proof and waterproof for reliable all-day wear.
2. Lancôme Lash Idôle Eye Liner
- Price: £22
- Best for: Ultra-fine wings and waterproof definition
- Details: Inspired by Lancôme’s iconic Idôle mascara, this liner boasts a super-fine 0.1mm tip to create delicate baby wings and precise edges. The waterproof formula is ideal for long days or humid weather.
3. L’Oréal Paris Flash Winged Eyeliner
- Price: £8.99
- Best for: Easy wing tracing
- Unique Feature: The innovative lid helps even beginners nail perfect flicks, while the flexible nib hugs the lash line to prevent mistakes.
4. Glossier Pro Tip
- Price: $18
- Best for: Chic mini flicks
- Pro Tip: May smudge on oilier lids unless set with powder, but the ultra-thin applicator creates refined, never-thick lines.
5. Maybelline Hyper Precise All Day Liner
- Price: £6.99
- Best for: Slim tips and detailed office-to-night looks
- Features: Ultra-fine tapered pen tip for precise marks. Especially helpful for hooded or smaller eyes to reach inner corners and along the lash line.
6. Charlotte Tilbury THE FELINE FLICK
- Price: £22
- Best for: Subtle everyday looks and dramatic builds
- Why We Love It: The fine tip crafts both soft lash lines and fuller, buildable cat flicks. Once set, it’s completely budge-proof for hassle-free wear.
7. Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
- Price: £18.40
- Best for: Effortless wings and true waterproof performance
- Features: Flexible dual-fiber bristle brush shapes the eye seamlessly; formula resists smudging, moisture, and the rigors of a busy day.
What others are reading
8. Collection Fast Stroke Liquid Eyeliner
- Price: £2.99
- Highlights: Highly recommended for over a decade for its blendable deep brown shade. Delivers a soft, subtle statement for minimalist looks, with surprisingly good longevity and very affordable pricing.
9. MAC LiquidLast
- Best for: Extreme staying power (especially in black)
- Note: While more expensive and slightly harder to apply, its durability makes it popular for all-day and special event looks.
How to Select the Best Liquid Eyeliner for Your Needs
Before adding a liner to your checkout cart, consider these core factors to match the formula to your lifestyle and style goals:
- Tip Type: Felt-tip pens provide control; brush tips offer flexibility for bold or calligraphic strokes.
- Formula: Waterproof for humid climates and long wear, non-waterproof for easy removal.
- Finish: Matte for a modern edge, glossy for drama, or satin for natural definition.
- Color: Black is classic, but brown can be softer for day; colored liners add fun for parties and festivals.
- Price: There are excellent choices across drugstore and luxury price points, so prioritize formula and applicator over cost.
Application Tips for a Flawless Liquid Eyeliner Look
Even the best liner needs the right technique for a perfect finish. Here are expert tips to help you master classic lines or intricate wings:
- Start with a primer or powder: Helps prevent smudging and extends wear, especially for oily lids.
- Anchor your elbow: Steady your hand on a table or countertop for precise strokes.
- Use short strokes: Build the line slowly to avoid mistakes; fill in gaps after your initial trace.
- Cotton swabs: Use to clean up any slips or even out flicks for symmetry.
- Experiment with shapes: Try thin lines for a subtle lift, thick cat eyes for drama, or graphic double wings for editorial impact.
Liquid Eyeliner vs. Pencil and Gel: A Comparison Table
| Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liquid | Sharp precision, long-lasting, bold pigment | More challenging for beginners, requires a steady hand | Cat eyes, graphic looks, fine lines |
| Pencil | Easy to use, blendable, gentle for waterline | Lower staying power, less intense color | Everyday definition, smudged smoke |
| Gel | Creamy texture, great for bold or smoky looks | Needs separate brush, can dry out over time | Dramatic wings, thick lines, custom shapes |
Best for Beginners: Hassle-Free, Foolproof Liquid Liners
If you’re new to liquid eyeliner, start with brands and products designed for easy application. Look for pen tips or ergonomic handles, and don’t shy away from black or brown formulas for practice.
- L’Oréal Paris Flash Winged Eyeliner: Innovative lid design is a lifesaver for liner newbies.
- Maybelline Hyper Precise: Slim tip and accessible price make it a great choice for every day or practice runs.
- Collection Fast Stroke: Best value and forgiving formula for experimenting without breaking the bank.
How to Recreate Celebrity Eye Looks Using Liquid Eyeliner
Iconic celebrity makeup styles are frequently defined by their signature eyeliner. Get inspired and recreate these looks with just one versatile liner and a few pro tips:
- Adele’s Dramatic Flick: Use a jet-black liner with a steady hand, and extend the wing outward for ultimate drama.
- Alexa Chung’s Kitten Eye: Subtle half-wing, starting thin at the inner corner, thickening gently at the outer edge.
- Angelina Jolie’s Classic Definition: Tightline upper lashes and add a soft flick, keeping the look clean and simple.
- Lady Gaga’s Bold Graphic: Experiment with double wings, negative space, or colored liners for standout effects.
- Zendaya’s Sleek Precision: Pair a fine-tip liner with inner and outer corner accents for a modern, editorial finish.
Liquid Eyeliner FAQs
Q: How do I keep my liquid eyeliner from smudging?
A: Start with a primer or a layer of setting powder on your lids; consider waterproof formulas for all-day durability, and avoid rubbing your eyes.
Q: What is the easiest type of liquid eyeliner to apply?
A: Felt-tip pen liners are generally the most beginner-friendly due to their firm structure and predictable product flow.
Q: Which color should I choose for natural looks?
A: Deep brown shades offer a softer, more natural finish than black and are ideal for daytime or minimal makeup styles.
Q: Are expensive eyeliners worth the price?
A: Not always; many drugstore options provide excellent wear and pigment. Prioritize tip type and formula over prestige.
Q: Can I use liquid eyeliner on the waterline?
A: While possible, most formulas are not designed for the waterline and may irritate. Use pencils or dedicated gel liners for this area.
Quick Tips for Liquid Eyeliner Success
- Store your eyeliner horizontally to prevent drying.
- Clean applicator tips regularly for smoother lines and better hygiene.
- Replace liners every 3-6 months to avoid bacterial buildup and achieve best results.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment—practice on your hand if needed before eyes.
Editor’s Favorites: Best Budget, Premium, and Versatile Picks
- Best Budget: Collection Fast Stroke Liquid Eyeliner (£2.99)
- Best Waterproof: Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
- Best for Beginners: L’Oréal Paris Flash Winged Eyeliner
- Most Versatile: Charlotte Tilbury THE FELINE FLICK
- Top Luxury Pick: Lancôme Lash Idôle Eye Liner
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Liquid Eyeliner
Whether you want to master a subtle kitten eye or make a bold statement with dramatic wings, the right liquid eyeliner can unlock endless beauty possibilities. Test different tips, formulas, and finishes to discover your favorite. Prioritize long-wear, comfortable application, and color payoff for looks that last and turn heads wherever you go.
Keep Experimenting, Keep Creating
Don’t be afraid to step out of your makeup comfort zone. Try new brands, play with color, and switch up your style. Eyeliner is a powerful beauty tool with infinite potential—make it your own!
References
- https://www.magazine.co.uk/the-hub/cosmopolitans-eyeliners-that-last
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dKdKsmkDXUM
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/makeup/a42307435/collection-fast-stroke-eyeliner-review-brown/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/makeup/g2797/best-liquid-eyeliner-review/
- https://www.eyeko.com/blog/press/cosmopolitan-1-eyeliner-5-different-celebrity-eye-looks/
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/gallery/3890-best-liquid-eyeliners
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3nFgO56t0w
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/beauty/318-i-wore-instagram-makeup-for-a-week-and-this-is-what-happened
- https://www.eyeko.com/blog/press/cosmopolitan-liners-that-last/
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