Eyeliner pencils have been a staple in beauty routines for years, helping people accentuate their eyes and create a range of looks—from a sharp, clean line to a smoky, sultry effect. Whether you’re a beginner or a makeup pro, finding the perfect eyeliner pencil can transform your overall appearance. Let’s break down the details of what makes these pencils so essential, while answering common questions about them.

Eyeliner Pencil

Eyeliner pencil is a makeup tools designed to define and enhance your eyes. They come in different styles, such as traditional wooden pencils that you sharpen and twist-up, retractable versions. Some are waterproof for all-day wear, while others are easier to smudge for a softer look. Depending on the finish you’re after—whether it’s matte, metallic, or glossy—you can find an eyeliner pencil that fits your preferences. Many modern formulas are also gentle on the skin, ensuring that you get long-lasting, comfortable wear without irritation.

Types of Eyeliner Pencils

1. Classic Pencil Eyeliner

This is the traditional eyeliner pencil that you sharpen to maintain a fine tip. Made from a combination of waxes and oils, it glides smoothly on the skin. These pencils are great for both precise lines and smudged, smoky effects, making them a go-to for all kinds of looks.

• Best for: Daily use, precise lines, and soft smudging.
• Pros: Easy to use, versatile, budget-friendly.
• Cons: Requires sharpening, which can be inconvenient.

2. Twist-Up (Retractable) Eyeliner

Retractable eyeliners don’t need sharpening, making them super convenient for quick applications. They often have a creamier texture, ensuring smooth application. However, they can break if too much pressure is applied, and you can’t achieve as sharp a tip as with traditional pencils.

• Best for: Quick, on-the-go applications.
• Pros: No sharpening needed, travel-friendly, simple to use.
• Cons: The tip can break easily, difficult to get a very sharp line.

3. Gel Eyeliner Pencils

Gel eyeliner pencils combine the precision of a pencil with the smooth glide of a gel. They provide intense color and are long-lasting, often waterproof. These are perfect for bold, dramatic looks that last all day.

• Best for: Bold, long-lasting wear and waterproof looks.
• Pros: Glides on easily, highly pigmented, and stays put.
• Cons: Can be tricky to remove and sometimes needs sharpening.

4. Kohl Eyeliner Pencils

Kohl pencils are known for their rich, creamy texture, making them ideal for smudging and blending. They are especially great for creating smoky eyes or applying on the waterline. However, their softness makes them prone to smudging on oily skin.

• Best for: Soft, blended looks and smoky eyes.
• Pros: Easy to smudge and blend, gentle on the skin.
• Cons: May smudge unintentionally, especially in heat or humidity.

5. Waterproof Eyeliner Pencils

These pencils are designed to last through moisture, sweat, and humidity, making them perfect for long days or outdoor activities. They’re ideal if you need your liner to stay put in challenging conditions.

• Best for: Long-lasting wear, humid environments, and outdoor activities.
• Pros: Smudge-proof, sweat-resistant, and long-lasting.
• Cons: Harder to remove, typically needs an oil-based makeup remover.

6. Smudgeable Eyeliner Pencils

These are designed specifically for creating a smoky or blended look. They’re easy to work with and give you time to blend before they set, allowing for soft, diffused lines. However, they may not last as long as waterproof formulas.

• Best for: Creating smoky eyes or soft, blended lines.
• Pros: Easy to blend and work with.
• Cons: May fade or smudge unintentionally.

7. Colored Eyeliner Pencils

Colored eyeliner pencils come in a wide variety of shades, allowing you to add fun or bold accents to your makeup. From bright blues to subtle purples, these pencils let you experiment with different looks beyond classic black or brown.

• Best for: Adding a pop of color to your makeup.
• Pros: Wide range of shades for creativity and fun.
• Cons: Some colors may not be as vibrant as classic black or brown liners.

8. Dual-Ended Eyeliner Pencils

These pencils have two different ends, offering either two formulas or two colors in one product. One side might be a kohl liner for blending, while the other offers a long-lasting formula. This makes them a great option for those who want versatility without carrying multiple products.

• Best for: Versatility and convenience.
• Pros: Two-in-one functionality, great for travel.
• Cons: Both sides may wear out faster with frequent use.

Ingredients

The ingredients in eyeliner pencils are a key part of what makes them work. Most pencils contain waxes like carnauba or beeswax, which allow the pencil to glide smoothly across your skin. Oils such as jojoba or castor oil are added to keep the formula soft and moisturizing, preventing it from tugging on the delicate skin around your eyes. Some pencils are also enriched with vitamins like vitamin E, which helps nourish and protect your skin. You’ll also find pigments, often derived from minerals, which give the pencil its color—whether it’s black, brown, or even a bold hue like blue or green.

Packaging and Design

When it comes to packaging, eyeliner pencils are typically designed for convenience and ease of use. Traditional pencils can be sharpened to achieve a fine, precise tip, while retractable pencils are perfect for on-the-go touch-ups since they don’t require sharpening. Some products even come with extra features like built-in sharpeners or smudgers for added functionality. The design of an eyeliner pencil, whether it’s sleek or more ergonomic, affects how comfortable it is to hold and use, making a big difference in how smoothly and precisely you can apply it.

Texture and Scent

The texture of eyeliner pencils varies, depending on the formula. Creamier pencils glide smoothly on your skin and are ideal for blending, making them a great choice for smoky eye looks. Pencils that are a little firmer offer more control, giving you the ability to create sharp, defined lines. Most eyeliner pencils are fragrance-free, which is a plus for sensitive skin, though you may notice a faint, waxy scent from some formulas. This scent tends to be subtle and fades quickly after application.

Application and Usage

One of the best things about eyeliner pencils is how versatile they are. You can use them to create clean, sharp lines for a defined look or smudge them out for a more relaxed, smoky effect. When applying, hold the pencil at a slight angle to avoid pulling at your eyelid. For a winged liner look, start thin near the inner corner of your eye and gradually thicken the line as you move outward. Waterproof pencils are ideal if you need your eyeliner to last through heat or humidity without fading or smudging.

Results 

The results from a good eyeliner pencil can be transformative. You can expect defined, striking eyes with lines that hold up all day without fading. Depending on the look you’re going for, eyeliner pencils can help you achieve anything from a bold, dramatic style to a more subtle, everyday appearance. Waterproof versions in particular provide a long-lasting finish, ensuring that your makeup stays put even in tough conditions like heat, rain, or tears.

My Experience

Having used countless eyeliner pencils over the years, I’ve found that the best ones strike the right balance between smoothness and staying power. Some pencils I’ve tried either smudged too easily or dried out too fast. However, the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil has become one of my favorites because of its creamy texture that’s easy to apply, yet once it sets, it stays put. It’s perfect for creating both precise lines and smudged, smoky looks.

Recommended Products

If you’re exploring different options, here are some similar eyeliner pencils from well-known brands:

• MAC Eye Kohl: Ideal for smooth application and effortless blending.
• NARS High-Pigment Longwear Eyeliner: Known for intense color payoff and long-lasting wear.
• Charlotte Tilbury Rock ‘n’ Kohl: Offers a kohl texture with the longevity of a gel liner.
• Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner Gel Eye Crayon: Loved for its gel formula that glides on easily and stays put all day.
• Fenty Beauty Flypencil Longwear Pencil Eyeliner: This is a waterproof and smudge-proof pencil that’s great for all-day wear.

Pros

• Wide variety of colors and finishes
• Easy to use for both beginners and makeup pros
• Versatile—can create sharp lines or soft, blended looks
• Long-lasting wear, especially waterproof formulas
• Convenient and travel-friendly packaging

Cons

• Some formulas can smudge too easily if too creamy
• Wooden pencils require sharpening, which can be inconvenient
• Retractable pencils may break easily if too much pressure is applied
• Certain formulas may not suit those with sensitive eyes

Frequently Asked Questions About Eyeliner Pencil

1. What exactly are eyeliner pencils for?

Eyeliner pencils are meant to enhance and define your eyes. You can use them to create various looks, whether it’s a sharp, clean line or a softer, smudged-out style. They’re great for everything from everyday makeup to more bold and dramatic styles.

2. How are eyeliner pencils different from liquid liners?

Eyeliner pencils offer more control and are much easier to use, especially if you’re just starting out. They’re super versatile—you can create both soft, smudged looks and sharp lines with them. Liquid liners, by contrast, are ideal for more defined, bold lines and usually provide more intense color.

3. Can I use eyeliner pencil on my waterline?

Yes, many eyeliner pencils are safe to use on your waterline (the inner rim of your eyes). Just make sure to pick one that’s specifically designed for sensitive areas and is tested by an ophthalmologist to avoid any irritation.

4. Are there waterproof eyeliner pencils?

Definitely! Some eyeliner pencils are made to be waterproof, so they won’t smudge or fade, even if they come in contact with water. Always check the label to see if the product is waterproof.

5. How do I sharpen an eyeliner pencil?

Traditional eyeliner pencils need to be sharpened using a makeup pencil sharpener. Be sure to use a sharpener made for cosmetics to avoid ruining the pencil. If you’re using a retractable pencil, no need to sharpen, though some come with a built-in sharpener for touch-ups.

6. How long does eyeliner pencil usually last?

Most eyeliner pencils last around 6 to 12 hours, depending on the formula. Waterproof pencils can last even longer. However, oily skin or humidity might affect how long it stays put. Applying a primer beforehand can help it last throughout the day.

7. How can I stop my eyeliner pencil from smudging?

To keep your liner from smudging, go for long-wear or waterproof formulas. You can also dust a little matching eyeshadow or translucent powder over it to lock it in place. Try not to rub your eyes, as that will cause smudging too.

8. Can I use an eyeliner pencil for a smoky eye?

Absolutely! Eyeliner pencils are perfect for smoky eyes. Simply draw a line near your lashes with a creamy pencil, then use a small brush or a smudger to soften and blend the line for that smoky effect.

9. Are eyeliner pencils okay for sensitive eyes?

Most eyeliner pencils work fine for sensitive eyes, but it’s always a good idea to choose ones that are hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested. Also, look for fragrance-free options if you have sensitive skin around the eyes.

10. What should I do if my eyeliner pencil feels too dry or hard?

If your pencil feels too dry or stiff, you can warm the tip for a second with a lighter. This softens the pencil, making it easier to apply. Just be sure to let it cool briefly before using it on your eyes!

11. How do I remove eyeliner at the end of the day?

Removing eyeliner is simple with an oil-based makeup remover or micellar water. Soak a cotton pad with your remover and gently wipe away the liner. For waterproof eyeliner, oil-based removers are especially effective.

Conclusion

Eyeliner pencils are a must-have in any makeup bag. They offer flexibility, allowing you to create everything from a subtle, everyday look to a bold, dramatic style. With so many options available—from classic wooden pencils to modern retractable designs, in a variety of finishes—you’re sure to find one that fits your needs perfectly. Whether you prefer a simple wing or a smoky eye, eyeliner pencils provide endless possibilities for enhancing your look.