Best Waterproof Eyeliners: Finding the Perfect Waterproof Eyeliner for You
Do you like to wear eyeliner, but don’t like how it smudges and wears off throughout the day? If so, you’ll want to check out this list of the best waterproof eyeliners. These formulas are designed not to budge, giving you all-day wear. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and finishes, so you can find the perfect one for your look.
This list of the best waterproof eyeliners will spotlight the top choices and will help you find the perfect waterproof eyeliner for you. With these waterproof eyeliners, you can have a long-lasting look that won’t smudge or rub off.
Enjoy this list of Best Waterproof Eyeliners!
Top 20 Waterproof Eyeliners:
1. NYX Epic Ink Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $8.61
About Waterproof Eyeliner: You don’t have to spend major $$$ for a smooth, waterproof eyeliner, and this drugstore liner from NYX proves it (I mean, just look at the 45,000+ five-star reviews). This brush-tip liner—which also comes in brown—creates pigmented cat eyes, flicks, and swoops that never look patchy or watery, and the formula itself dries down to a smudge-proof finish for an eight-hour work day. Did I mention it’s less than $10 too? Love it.
THE REVIEWS: “When my favorite high-end eyeliners got way too expensive, I decided to give this cheaper option a try, and it honestly applies darker and stays longer than either of them,” writes one tester in a review. “You can apply this in the morning, and it stays on all day. If it ever gets discontinued. I will legitimately cry, lol.”
2. Benefit Cosmetics Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $19.78
About Waterproof Eyeliner: This creamy eyeliner is the perfect waterproof option for everything from coating the waterline to creating a dramatic cat eye. The easy-to-apply crayon format glides on smoothly, so you don’t have to aggressively pull at your lid to create a straight line. Once on, it feels weightless, making it a particularly comfortable liner option. The one caveat? Even in the black shade, this liner is not 100% opaque, so keep in mind that it will require a second layer to get a bold, jet-black finish.
What makes this option stand out amongst other crayon liners on the market is that it truly doesn’t budge when mixed with sweat or splashed with water. It stays put, yet it’s workable enough to touch up with micellar water should you want to create even sharper lines. If you prefer a more smudged end look, it also boasts a built-in sponge for blending it out immediately after application.
3. Maybelline Hyper Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $7.98
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Introducing liquid liner minus the skips, slips, gaps and struggle. With its hyper easy brush tip, this liquid eyeliner delivers the smoothest glide, fitting to the shape of your eye. The revolutionary flex tip brush and custom hexagonal grip gives optimal control and easy, stable application.
It lasts up to 24 hours with intense color that doesn’t smudge. Subtle lines, smokey vibes, custom brow looks, classic tones or a shot of color—our eyeshadow, eyeliner, brows, and mascara collections are designed to transform your look. For anyone seeking the best waterproof eyeliners, this one should be high on the list.
4. e.l.f. Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $7.00
About Waterproof Eyeliner: You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to add a high-quality waterproof eyeliner to your makeup kit. Your proof? This e.l.f. Cosmetics Intense H2O Proof Eyeliner Pen, which costs just $6 and outperforms many of the other liners we tried. It’s highly pigmented, built to last throughout the day, and comfortable throughout the entire duration of wear. It does take a touch longer to dry than other formulas, but not so long that you risk smudging it onto your upper lids before it sets.
The one downside? It’s particularly difficult to remove. Rather than coming off entirely in one fell swoop, one of our testers found that it took quite a bit more rubbing to get rid of it completely. For those looking for the best waterproof eyeliners, this affordable option is a fantastic choice.
5. IT Cosmetics Superhero Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $24.00
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Superhero No-Tug Retractable Eyeliner delivers a super smooth-glide application without skipping or tugging your delicate eyelids. If you prefer an automatic eyeliner to one you need to sharpen, look no further! This waterproof eyeliner for all-day wear doesn’t smudge—no sharpening required! Includes avocado oil & vitamin E, making it not only one of the best waterproof eyeliners but also a nourishing option for your delicate eye area.
6. Long-Wear Gel Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $26.99
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Many people assume that gel pot eyeliners are reserved for professional makeup artists and those with super steady hands. While this liner category typically does require a bit more precision, the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner boasts such a smooth application, even newbies can create a gorgeous lined look. Unlike many gel pot liners, this cult-favorite formula won’t clump up on your liner brush (though it’s worth noting the liner doesn’t come with a brush, so you’ll have to purchase your own).
It glides on beautifully and dries down quickly, making the application process much more seamless. One thing to note is that since this liner applies a bit lighter (which lends to its anti-clumping prowess), it’s slightly less pigmented than it seems in the pot. Still, it’s easy to layer, and doing so doesn’t result in a caked-on finish, so it’s not a major deterrent. As for removal, it came off easily—and entirely—with the Glow Recipe Cleansing Balm, a major plus. This is definitely one of the best waterproof eyeliners available for both professionals and beginners.
7. stila Stay All Day Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $32.00
About Waterproof Eyeliner: I’ve been using this eyeliner for many years. In the beginning, I stored it vertically and the pen would dry out within 1 to 1.5 months. It took me a while (after many Stila pen replacements) to realize that on the package in fine prints it stated to store it horizontally for best results. The key is to read the package, but how many of us read a package for an eyeliner knowing that’s what it’s meant for in the first place when we buy it.
Anywho, since storing it horizontally this eyeliner has lasted me up to 2 years and that’s me putting on my eyeliner twice a month as I like eyeliner with a full makeup look. This eyeliner is my holy grail, forever and ever and I tried to switch teams, but Stila eyeliner got me remaining faithful. When searching for the best waterproof eyeliners, Stila Stay All Day should be at the top of your list.
8. Rihanna FENTY BEAUTY Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $16.09
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Many people find that liquid eyeliner pens are the easiest option for creating fluid strokes ending in perfectly sharp wingtips—and with Fenty Beauty’s Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner, you can do just that. The free-flowing, fast-drying formula ensures an even line of opaque pigment that won’t drip, smudge, or smear during the application process. And, since it glides on so smoothly, it doesn’t require any pulling or tugging to evenly line your lids.
Once applied, this liner lives up to its name: It doesn’t budge—not when met with a sweaty HIIT class or when splashed post-workout. Still, it’s easy to remove when a cleanser is introduced. One tester evaluated it with Glow Recipe’s Cleansing Balm while another used a makeup wipe, both fully removing every trace of pigment with ease. For anyone on the hunt for the best waterproof eyeliners, FENTY BEAUTY’s offering is a standout.
9. Wet n Wild Mega Last Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $5.28
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Our ultimate waterproof liquid liner provides smudge-proof, flake-proof, cry-proof staying power. The ultra-fine brush tip lets you create any look, from thin delicate lines to bold cat eyes. This innovative eyeliner has a tank delivery system that allows the perfect flow of richly pigmented color with every application for precision, accuracy, and ease of application. Best Face Forward:
From bronzer and blush to primer, highlighter, natural finish powder, and concealer, we’ve got you covered and photo-ready for your next big thing. You’ve met your true makeup match. For those in search of the best waterproof eyeliners, this product is a great option to consider.
10. COVERGIRL Exhibitionist Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $2.25
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Beloved by hundreds of shoppers for its luxe-quality formula, COVERGIRL’s Exhibitionist Lash Enhancing Liquid Eyeliner is a fantastic drugstore option for those hoping for sharp, dark lines that last. The inky formula is highly pigmented and dries almost immediately. Once dry, it won’t budge from sweat or normal blinking friction—however, it does slightly fade when directly splashed with water, but not so much to nix it from our list of faves.
One not-so-fab callout, though: Since it’s formulated with PEGs and BHT, it’s not Byrdie Clean. Still, it performs so well that you might find that to be an acceptable price to pay for an affordable long-lasting-but-easy-to-remove waterproof eyeliner. Among the best waterproof eyeliners, this one stands out for its performance and affordability.
11. stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $22.00
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Precise liner that doubles as a smudgy shadow. Glides on smooth (no tugging or pulling) and smudges with ease. This dual-function liner is perfect for achieving both sharp lines and smoky looks, making it a versatile addition to any makeup collection. As one of the best waterproof eyeliners, it’s designed to stay put through sweat and humidity, ensuring your look remains flawless all day.
12. Lancôme Drama Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $23.00
About Waterproof Eyeliner: If you prefer a pencil eyeliner above all other formulas, the Lancôme Drama Liqui-Pencil is the way to go. Despite being a pencil, it’s creamy and applies easily without any serious tugging, which is what makes it one of our favorites of the bunch. We also love that the formula is available in a variety of neutral shades, ranging from black and brown to copper and navy.
However, it’s worth noting that the pigmentation level depends on the color chosen; where the black shade is opaque in a single swipe, the purple option requires multiple layers for substantial color payoff. This is definitely one of the best waterproof eyeliners for those who love pencil formats.
13. Mistine So Black Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $9.89
About Waterproof Eyeliner: This black eyeliner delivers even strokes with a waterproof, fade-resistant, smudge-resistant, and flake-resistant eye makeup formula. With just one stroke, black saturated pigments deliver intense impact. This black liquid eyeliner is easy to remove without tugging or pulling. The felt tip and easy grip allow for precise and controlled strokes, which glide on smoothly with no skipping and no mess.
Our waterproof eyeliner pencil’s flexible brush tip is made with 360 bristles for easy glide, creating any line from thin to thick in one stroke with no skipping and no mess. This eye liner liquid liner delivers bold and even impact. For those looking for the best waterproof eyeliners, Mistine So Black is an excellent choice.
14. URBAN DECAY Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $25.00
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Whether Euphoria has you daydreaming about creative eye makeup looks or you’re simply a big fan of color, Urban Decay’s 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil is a great option. The formula comes in an impressive 34 different shades, including matte and glitter finishes. While the level of pigment opacity varies from color to color, no matter which hue you choose, you can expect a very creamy application (which, admittedly, can make drawing on crisp lines more of a challenge).
Luckily, a couple of layers and a touchup with micellar water can easily address both of those concerns. Speaking of micellar water, this liner stays put through sweat and water (though not with physical touches), but it’s easy to remove with cleansing balm and micellar water alike. For those searching for the best waterproof eyeliners, Urban Decay offers a wide range of vibrant options.
15. Milani Stay Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $7.95
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Want your eyes to turn heads? Our smudge-proof eyeliner is powerfully pigmented and matte to the max. This water-resistant liquid eyeliner glides on luxuriously and dries quickly, making captivating looks a cinch to create. Our matte liquid eyeliner puts in work:
You can expect it to deliver full color for up to 17 hours. Thanks to its long-wearing and water-resistant formula, Stay Put won’t budge or smudge, even with sweat or humidity. No need for a mirror check—your liquid liner stays on point for a full day and beyond. Available in four versatile and statement-making shades, it’s a top contender among the best waterproof eyeliners.
16. L’Oreal Paris Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $6.00
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Infallible Waterproof Eyeliner: This long-lasting, smudge-proof eyeliner glides on easily for creamy color that lasts up to 24 hours without smudging. L’Oreal Eyeliner: Use our best eyeliners to achieve an everyday eye look or a bold cat eye look; Choose from a variety ranging from gel to liquid felt tip eyeliners and pencil eyeliners. Create your perfect eye makeup look with our collection of mascaras, achieve sleek lines with smudge-proof eyeliner, add definition to your brows and discover eye shadow palettes with shades made for every eye color.
Because You’re Worth It: L’Oréal Paris helps you create the look you want with our full line of makeup including foundations, concealers, highlighter makeup, eyeshadow palettes, lipsticks, and much more. As one of the best waterproof eyeliners, this product offers versatility and long-lasting performance.
17. Ruby Kisses Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $7.99 (3 count)
About Waterproof Eyeliner: LONG-WEARING, WATERPROOF EYELINER: Waterproof formula that lasts up to 24 hours and has a smooth, creamy glide. UP TO 24 HOUR WEAR: This Ruby Kisses eyeliner stays put for up to 24 hours for bold, smudge-proof looks that stay with you all day. BUILT-IN SHARPENER: Includes built-in sharpener to get sharp, precise lines and built-in smudger to blend and soften color for a smoldering, smoky eye look.
VERSATILE LINER LOOKS: Create a multitude of eyeliner looks from defined to dramatic, winged liner, cat eye liner, and more. For those looking for the best waterproof eyeliners, Ruby Kisses offers a reliable and versatile option.
18. Skone Cosmetics Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $21.49
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Skone has rapidly become the “go-to” tattoo eyeliner product for professional cosmetologists and leading makeup artists worldwide. The ultra-pigmented, one-swipe, smudge-proof and waterproof eyeliner includes a rich liquid felt applicator for smooth, fast, and accurate eye-popping results. The waterproof liquid felt tip eyeliner is a must-have for any beauty enthusiast in their makeup bag for an on-the-go application. Experience the Skone Difference! Our products are so pigmented it’s like a tattoo!
Our tattoo liner weighs 0.07 oz and contains enough product to last an extended amount of time. With the high pigmentation, you can use less and achieve a greater, intense result. It will take you from day to night without needing any touch-ups. This eyeliner is as loyal as your BFF. Whether you’re hitting the gym or sipping a drink by the pool, it doesn’t matter because this defined eyeliner will stay in place. For the best waterproof eyeliners, Skone Cosmetics delivers exceptional performance.
19. Maybelline Eyestudio Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $13.98 (2 count)
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Master the art of the winged eyeliner with the Allure Best of Beauty Award winner 2013. Maybelline New York Eyestudio Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner delivers intense precision for the most defined line. The liquid eyeliner features an ultra-fine 0.4 millimeter brush felt tip to deliver precise definition in one single stroke. The ink intensity pen’s continuous flow provides smooth even lines for the perfect cat eye. The highly pigmented formula will keep your eyeliner look last all day, for up to 12 hours. When it comes to the best waterproof eyeliners, Maybelline Eyestudio is a top pick.
20. Palladio Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner
Price: $7.99
About Waterproof Eyeliner: Palladio Eyeliner Retractable Eyeliner Pencil has a slim, crayon-like, easy-to-apply retractable tube design that allows the crisp point of the eye pencil to be easily drawn in and out. The easy twist-up tube never needs sharpening. All day wear formulation allows for a long-lasting application which helps your lipstick stay on even longer. You can eat and drink with no smudging.
Waterproof formula means there is no feathering or transfer. This liner glides over the skin while smoothing texture for a seamless line, so you can re-shape and re-size the appearance. For those seeking the best waterproof eyeliners, Palladio Retractable is a convenient and long-lasting option.
Best Waterproof Eyeliners Conclusion
If you’re looking for a waterproof eyeliner that will stay put all day long, then any of the formulas on this list of the best waterproof eyeliners would be a great option for you.
Whether you want a bold black line or a more subtle look, there’s definitely an eyeliner out there that will suit your needs.
So don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect one.
If you have tried any of these waterproof eyeliners before, we would love to hear your feedback below in the comments.
