Even with the best liquid eyeliners, it still takes serious skill to achieve the perfect winged eyeliner look every time. But while the 50% of the result depends on your steady hand, the other 50% depends on the product itself: its applicator and its formula. One liquid eyeliner pen can glide on very smoothly and leave the strongest classic black pigment behind, while others have less precise felt tip applicators or formulas that are more prone to smudging and drying out.
Liquid eyeliners can help you create the most unique eye makeup looks, from Ariana Grande-inspired winged liner and graphic lines to a bolder cateye and the TikTok-inspired “siren eye” look. Whether you intend you wear eyeliner simply with a flick or mascara, or to compliment your Urban Decay eyeshadow game, the glam possibilities are endless.
But finding the best liquid eyeliner to fit your needs and preferences is not as easy as you’d think. You see, if you simply Google eyeliner, you’ll see hundreds and thousands of options popping up on your screen. And who has the time to read up on all of the reviews?
The GLAMOUR beauty team tests hundreds of liquid eyeliners per year in order to try out all the different formulas, applicator tips and the pigment to make your life a bit easier. So, we’ve prepared a guide on the very best liquid eyeliners to add to your checkout, from viral hits to affordable bestsellers and underrated gems to fit all budgets and desired finishes. Scroll all the way down to shop.
Best liquid eyeliners at a glance
What is the easiest liquid eyeliner to use?
I’ve tried every eyeliner going and maintain that Collection’s Fast Stroke pot and quill solution is the best (the lid is weighted to guide it instinctively along your lash line, while the nib is beautifully precise and rigid enough to stay put without splaying). Meanwhile, Bobbi Brown’s pro makeup artist, Amy Conway, recommends a gel formula if you’re just starting out. “It’s more solid and less smeary,” she says.
What brand of eyeliner is the best?
With countless liquid eyeliners to choose from, it can be tricky to find the best one for you. To make it a little easier, we have picked out some of our all-time favourites – whether you want a statement graphic line or a defined feline flick. Our advice? have a play around until you find your partner in crime.
Once you’ve mastered your technique (with a little help from our editor-approved guide, if needed), why not experiment with the latest eyeliner trends? We’re off to give kitten liner a spin.
And if it all goes horribly wrong (don’t worry, we’ve all been there), these micellar waters will sort you out – they’re able to remove even the most stubborn waterproof formulas in a single sweep.