You don’t have to splurge on high-end brands to find an eyeliner that works wonders. Drugstore eyeliners have stepped up their game, offering amazing quality, rich pigments, and long-lasting wear at wallet-friendly prices. Whether you’re a fan of sharp liquid liners, versatile pencils, or bold gel formulas, there’s a budget option that’s perfect for you. Let’s dive into some of the best drugstore eyeliners that beauty lovers can’t get enough of.
1. Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Liner
Type: Liquid
Finish: Satin
Perfect For: Effortless precision
Maybelline’s Hyper Easy Liquid Liner is as smooth and easy to use as its name suggests. With a flexible brush tip that glides on without skipping, it’s perfect for nailing that perfect wing, whether subtle or bold. The deep black formula stays put all day without smudging, and the hexagonal grip ensures steady application, making it a fantastic pick for beginners and pros alike.
2. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner
Type: Pencil
Finish: Matte
Perfect For: All-day wear
If you’re on the hunt for a pencil eyeliner that really sticks around, the L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Last is a great choice. This creamy pencil goes on smoothly and delivers intense color that lasts up to 24 hours. It’s waterproof and resistant to smudging, making it ideal for everything from tightlining to a smoky eye. Plus, with shades ranging from classic black to vibrant hues, there’s something for every look.
3. NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner
Type: Liquid
Finish: Matte
Perfect For: Bold, precise lines
NYX’s Epic Ink Liner is beloved for its super-black, waterproof formula and its precise, flexible brush tip. If you’re all about sharp cat eyes or crisp, defined lines, this one’s for you. It’s richly pigmented, dries quickly, and stays put without smudging—ideal for both everyday wear and more dramatic styles.
4. Revlon ColorStay Crème Gel Eyeliner
Type: Gel
Finish: Matte
Perfect For: Smooth, intense lines
Revlon’s ColorStay Crème Gel Eyeliner offers the bold pigment of a gel with the ease of a pencil. It glides on effortlessly and sets quickly, providing a rich line that won’t fade or smudge throughout the day. The included brush makes it simple to achieve either precise lines or softer, smudged looks. Available in classic black and other vibrant shades, it’s versatile enough for any occasion.
5. e.l.f. H2O Proof Eyeliner Pen
Type: Liquid
Finish: Matte
Perfect For: Waterproof, budget-friendly wear
For a waterproof eyeliner that won’t break the bank, look no further than the e.l.f. H2O Proof Eyeliner Pen. This liner delivers a smooth, bold line that resists water, sweat, and humidity, making it perfect for all-day wear. The felt tip is easy to control, whether you’re going for a thin line or something more dramatic, and it’s a great pick if you’re looking for quality on a budget.
6. Milani Stay Put Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil
Type: Pencil
Finish: Matte
Perfect For: Long-lasting wear on the waterline
Milani’s Stay Put Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil features a rich, creamy formula that glides on easily and sets to a smudge-proof finish. It’s highly pigmented and comes in a variety of shades, making it versatile for any look. Its waterproof formula is perfect for long-lasting wear, including on the waterline, where it won’t budge. A solid pick for vibrant color and reliability.
7. Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Liner
Type: Pencil
Finish: Matte
Perfect For: Smoky eyes and waterline use
Rimmel’s Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Liner is a go-to for creating smoky, dramatic looks. Its creamy formula glides on effortlessly and offers intense color that’s easy to blend before setting. It’s waterproof, so it stays put all day—even on the waterline. With a variety of colors, from classic black to bold hues, this liner is versatile and dependable.
Tips for Picking the Right Drugstore Eyeliner
- Type: Choose the type of eyeliner that suits your style—liquid for precise lines, pencils for smudging and tightlining, or gels for a bold, intense look.
- Finish: Decide if you prefer a matte or satin finish based on the look you’re going for.
- Wear Time: Look for waterproof or long-wear formulas if you need your eyeliner to last through long days or nights.
- Ease of Use: If you’re new to eyeliner or want something quick and easy, pens or pencils are generally the easiest to control.
Pros
- Budget-Friendly
Drugstore eyeliners are a great choice if you want quality without spending a lot. They’re perfect for anyone on a budget or for those who love to try out different looks without committing to pricey products.
- Lots of Variety
Whether you prefer liquid liners, pencils, gels, or pens, there’s no shortage of options at the drugstore. This variety makes it easy to find the perfect liner for your needs, whether you want a sharp cat eye or a soft, blended look.
Convenience
You can find drugstore eyeliners almost anywhere, from your local pharmacy to big box stores and online. This makes it super convenient to grab one whenever you’re running errands—no special trips needed!
- Quality That Rivals High-End Brands
Don’t let the low prices fool you—many drugstore eyeliners perform just as well as the expensive ones. They offer long-lasting wear, rich color, and smooth application, and some even become cult favorites because of their impressive results.
- Beginner-Friendly
Drugstore eyeliners are perfect for beginners. With their affordable prices and easy-to-use options like pen liners, you can practice your eyeliner skills without the pressure of messing up expensive products.
Cons
- Inconsistent Longevity
Not all drugstore eyeliners have the same staying power. While many are long-lasting, some might smudge or fade, especially if you have oily skin or are in humid conditions. You may need to touch up during the day.
- Fewer Specialty Formulas
While there’s a good selection of basics, drugstore brands might not always offer the more unique formulas or finishes, like glitter or metallic liners, that you’d find with high-end brands.
- Quality Can Vary
Sometimes, you might notice a difference in quality even within the same brand—some shades might go on smoother than others, or the packaging might not be as durable as pricier options.
- Simpler Packaging and Applicators
Drugstore liners often come in basic packaging that might not have the same ergonomic design or high-precision applicators as more expensive brands. This can make application a bit trickier, especially if you’re used to luxury packaging.
- Limited Color Choices for Bold Looks
While you can easily find staple colors like black, brown, and navy, drugstore brands might not have as many bold or unusual shades (like pastels or neons) compared to high-end brands that offer more creative options.
Frequently Asked Questions on Best Drugstore Eyeliner
1. What types of eyeliners can I find at drugstores?
Drugstores stock a range of eyeliners, including pencils, gels, liquids, crayons, kajals, markers, creams, and waterproof varieties. Each type offers different application methods and finishes to suit various preferences.
2. How do I pick the right eyeliner for me?
Think about the look you want to achieve. For sharp, defined lines, liquid or marker eyeliners are ideal. For a more subtle effect, pencil or gel eyeliners work well. If you need a long-lasting option, go for waterproof eyeliners. Kajal is perfect for bold, intense color on the waterline.
3. Are drugstore eyeliners comparable to high-end ones?
Many drugstore eyeliner provide high-quality results similar to those of expensive brands, often at a lower cost. Choosing a well-reviewed product can help you get the best performance.
4. What’s the best way to apply pencil eyeliner?
Sharpen the pencil for a smooth application and apply it in short, controlled strokes along your lash line. To achieve a softer look, blend it with a brush or sponge.
5. Can gel eyeliner replace liquid eyeliner?
Yes, gel eyeliner can serve as an alternative to liquid eyeliner. It offers a creamy texture and can be applied with a brush for both precise lines and softer looks.
6. How can I effectively remove drugstore eyeliner?
Use a makeup remover or micellar water to gently take off the eyeliner. For waterproof formulas, an oil-based remover might be necessary to completely dissolve the product.
7. What sets waterproof eyeliners apart from regular ones?
Waterproof eyeliners are formulated to resist water, sweat, and tears, making them ideal for long wear and tough conditions. They often need a stronger remover to take off.
8. Are there drugstore eyeliner safe for sensitive eyes?
Many drugstore eyeliners are designed for sensitive eyes. Look for those labeled as hypoallergenic or tested by ophthalmologists.
9. How can I make my eyeliner last longer?
To extend the wear of your eyeliner, apply a primer on your eyelids before the eyeliner. Setting it with a matching eyeshadow or powder can also help it stay put throughout the day.
10. Can I use kajal on both my waterline and upper lash line?
Yes, kajal is versatile and works well on both the waterline and upper lash line. It provides a deep, dramatic color that enhances your look
Conclusion
Drugstore eyeliners are proof that you don’t need to spend a lot to get great results. From creating everyday looks to experimenting with bold, creative styles, there’s a drugstore eyeliner that can do the job. The options above deliver on quality, staying power, and value, making them fantastic additions to your makeup bag. So go ahead, try a few, and find the perfect liner to fit your needs!
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