As POPSUGAR editors, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. If you buy a product we have recommended, we may receive affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.
- Eyeliner is perfect for creating both dramatic and subtle makeup looks.
- There are many different types of eyeliner, including liquid, gel, pencil, and kohl.
- Below, we round up our favorite eyeliners in every category.
When it comes to eyeliner, there are a handful of things you probably look for before committing. Is the color super pigmented? Is it specially made for long-lasting wear? Is the formula smudge proof? These are all things that are essential for creating a look you'll love and for that pencil or marker to earn a permanent spot in your cosmetics bag. When it comes to eyeliner, different types are best for different makeup looks.
Liquid Eyeliner
Liquid eyeliner is perfect for those looking to achieve an intense, precise eyeliner look. It usually comes in the form of a marker or pen with a felt tip. It's great for achieving different eyeliner styles, such as bat-wing eyeliner or winged eyeliner, because of how thin and precise the tip is.
Gel Eyeliner
Gel eyeliner is a semisolid eyeliner that typically comes housed in a small jar with a screw-on cap. The eyeliner is usually applied with an angled eyeliner brush. Gel eyeliner is great if you're looking to apply your eyeliner look with just one swipe because the color goes on extremely pigmented.
Kohl Eyeliner
Kohl eyeliner is a black powder that is used to darken eyebrows, eyelashes, and eyelids. Modern kohl eyeliner comes in different forms, such as pencil. Kohl-eyeliner pencils are typically made with more oil, which makes applying the eyeliner easy and snag free. It's perfect for a smoky eye, or it would be great in the waterline because of the deep color.
Pencil Eyeliner
Pencil eyeliner is perfect for those who are looking for a soft eyeliner look. Pencil eyeliners come in the most versatile sizes and colors, with everything from a muted, soft brown to a vibrant blue or purple. Pencil eyeliner can also be smudged easily, which makes it ideal for creating a smoky-eyed look. Pencil eyeliner is also great for beginners who are still learning how to do different eyeliner looks. It can be removed easily without too much trouble, and it's forgiving when it comes to application.
POPSUGAR beauty editors have tried dozens of eyeliners throughout their careers and have loads of favorites in gel, liquid, and pencil varieties. While most of the ones on this list are dark, inky-black shades (like the Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Matte Liquid Liner), many of them (like the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil) come in a bevy of hues.
Ahead, you're sure to find an eyeliner that you'll fall in love with and might even become your long-term pick.
