Eyeliner has been around for decades, but it wasn't until recently that it started being available in waterproof form. For years, women struggled with their eyeliner, as it would often smear all over their face anytime they sweat or shed a tear. Exercising with eyeliner was an absolute disaster and don’t even get us started about swimming. 

That’s just not the case anymore. Now, whatever eyeliner type you choose, you have a way to make it stay in place, no matter what your day has in store for you. Options for the best waterproof eyeliner has been made available in recent years and it is changing the way we view makeup. Wearing makeup doesn’t have to be something we only get to do in certain settings now. With waterproof eyeliner and other products like it, no activity we do will make our makeup run down our face. That is, of course, if you are buying the best waterproof eyeliners. Not all waterproof eyeliners are the same quality. This guide will help you understand the different options for the best waterproof eyeliners that are available to you. We only recommend products that are of the highest quality!

The L'Oreal Paris Cosmetics Infallible Pro-Last waterproof pencil eyeliner is by far one of the best waterproof eyeliners on the market. It comes in ten different colors, including aubergine, black, bronze, brown, burgundy, cobalt, grey, ivy, nude, and purple. You can find a color to accompany almost any eye color or eyeshadow. These options allow you to be creative and switch up your regular makeup routine! Two colors that really stood out to me were the burgundy and the cobalt. Burgundy is a beauty mixture of red and purple tones. It really makes blue eyes pop and it is hard to find! Cobalt is a soft blue color that is perfect for those seeking a bolder, party-style look.

This eyeliner is both long-lasting and smudge resistant. It goes on smoothly and can be used to develop a variety of different looks. You won’t have to worry about reapplying this makeup throughout the day either, as it last up to 24 hours. Since it is waterproof, you don’t have to worry about what activities you are doing while wearing it. If you choose to swim, your makeup will stay intact. If you choose to go for a run, your makeup will stay intact. You can even wear this makeup in the shower if you want.

The only con about this eyeliner that I can see is that they have to be sharpened manually. Sharpening your eyeliner is a simple yet annoying task that I would prefer to avoid. However, this small setback is no reason not to purchase this eyeliner. I believe the L'Oreal Paris Cosmetics Infallible Pro-Last waterproof pencil eyeliner is one of the best waterproof eyeliners around.

Key Features
  • Smudge resistant
  • 10 shades to choose from
  • Sharpenable pencil
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 24 hours
  • Product Form: Pencil
  • Weight: .32 ounces
  • Brand: L'Oreal
Pros
  • Your eyeliner will stay flawless all day long
  • Made with a smudge-resistant formula
  • There are numerous color options
Cons
  • Must sharpen this pencil manually

The Shake Beauty Eyeliner Stamp is truly one-of-a-kind. Each pen has two ends; one end is for stamping and the other end is a very fine tip that can produce precise lines. The stamp feature is easy to use. Simply place it in the outer corner of your eye, press down, and move outward for desired length of stamp. This creates flawless cat flicks.

What excites me most about this waterproof eyeliner is that it comes backed with a lifetime warranty. If you are unsatisfied with this product for any reason, you can send it back for a full refund. Or, if you prefer, they will send you another identical product at no cost. From everything I have read, they have a great customer service team that is eager to help its customers. This makes trying this product risk-free.

This eyeliner was developed with a smudge-resistant formula that dries quickly when applied to your face. It is waterproof, so you can use it no matter what your itinerary looks like for the day. Best of all, this product won’t fade for up to 24 hours, which means you can wear it all day long without having to reapply it!

The only downside I came across with this product is that it can be difficult to take off. While it claims to come off easily with makeup remover, many people have reported that is not the case. It takes several minutes of hard scrubbing to take this makeup off and it can leave your skin mildly irritated afterwards. Regardless, this is still an awesome product; I would even go as far as to say it is one of the best waterproof eyeliner of the year!

Key Features
  • Two-headed pen
  • Cat-flick stamp
  • Long-lasting, smudge-proof formula
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 24 hours
  • Product Form: Liquid
  • Weight: .52 ounces
Pros
  • You will not need to retouch this product through the day
  • Doubled-headed structure allows for multiple designs
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons
  • Difficult to take off

The Rimmel Exaggerate Eye Definer is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality eyeliner. There are seven distinct colors to choose from including noir, deep ocean, blackest black, earl grey, in the nude, rich brown, and starlit black. We love that there are different options when it comes to black eyeliners here, as not all shades of black are the same. You can use blackest black if you are planning to hit the clubs or noir if you are just planning to wear it to the office. In the nude can be used to accomplish an au natural look. No matter what your situation, this type of waterproof eyeliner has something for you.

One thing I really appreciate about this eyeliner is that it is non-toxic, which means I don’t have to worry about what would happen if my dogs or children were to get their hands on it. It also gives me peace of mind knowing a product I am putting on my body is safe to consume. Another great thing about this product is that is sharpens itself. I no longer have to struggle to get the perfect point on my pencil, as this pencil has the perfect point every time.

As with any product, there is a downside that I feel obliged to point out. This product only lasts for 10 hours. So, it may last you throughout the workday, but it will not stay intact throughout your evening activities. This product will have to be reapplied in order for it to last all day long, which is a little disappointing. Overall, this is still one of the best waterproof eyeliner on the market and I recommend trying it out!

Key Features
  • Sharpener and smudger included
  • Provides a rich color
  • Non-toxic product
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 10 hours
  • Product Form: Pencil
  • Weight: .32 ounces
Pros
  • Seven colors to choose from
  • This product is non-toxic
  • It sharpens itself
Cons
  • Only last for 10 hours

The Maybelline New York Tattoostudio liquid ink eyeliner produces very precise lines when applied properly. These eyeliners can be used to perform a wide variety of unique looks. The best part is, whatever look you settle on will last for up to 36 hours. This means you can do your makeup in the morning and expect it to last all day long.

This is a type of eyeliner that I feel comfortable wearing to the gym, as it is sweat resistant. No matter how intense my workout is or how much I sweat, this type of eyeliner will still look the same as when I started, which is incredible. I never used to feel like I could wear makeup to the gym because it would always cause me to have raccoon eyes; this product has changed that for me. I now have the freedom to wear eyeliner to the gym when I want to.

Another thing I love about this eyeliner is that it is easy to take off. Many waterproof eyeliners need to be scrubbed off, leaving my skin red and irritated. That’s not the case with this waterproof eyeliner. A little makeup remover is all you need to not even see a trace of eyeliner left on your skin; it is truly amazing.

The biggest downside to purchasing this eyeliner is that it is only available in onyx black. While this color does go with most eyeshadows and almost any look you are trying to obtain, we still don’t prefer to be limited in this way. Regardless, the Maybelline New York Tattoostudio liquid ink eyeliner is still one of the best waterproof eyeliners of 2019.

Key Features
  • Lasts up to 36 hours
  • Easy to apply
  • Sweat-resistant
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: Up to 36 hours
  • Product Form: Liquid
  • Weight: .64 ounce
Pros
  • No smuding or fading
  • Sweat resistant
  • Offers precise definition
Cons
  • Only comes in one color: black

The Neutrogena Smokey Kohl Water-Resistant Eyeliner is a stunning product. It comes in a jet black color that is highly pigmented in order to produce bold looks. It is infused with vitamin E, an antioxidant that is known for revitalizing the skin. This makes it a great option for those with sensitive skin, as it won’t leave the skin irritated. Actually, this eyeliner will do quite the opposite; it will leave your skin moisturized.

The main purpose for selecting this type of eyeliner is that it is the ideal consistency to create the smoky eye look. It takes about thirty seconds to dry once applied to your face, leaving you with enough time to spread it around to create an authentic smoky eye look. Once it does dry, it won’t smudge or fade for up to 24 hours.

This product can easily be taken off without irritating the skin. Take a mild soap or makeup remover and apply a small dot to your washcloth. Then, gently wipe away your makeup, making sure to direct the makeup away from your eye area. It should come off within a few seconds. Face wipes would also be effective for removing this makeup.

The biggest drawback to using this eyeliner is that it can be difficult to get a fine, straight line. This is because this product is made with a softer material than most eyeliners. Again, it is designed to produce the smoky eye look. If that’s the look you are going for, then this just might be the best waterproof eyeliner for you!

Key Features
  • Easy to use applicator
  • Bold color that won't fade all day long
  • Sensitive skin approved
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 24 hours
  • Product Form: Pencil
  • Weight: 0.48 ounces
Pros
  • Formulated with Vitamin E
  • Once dry, this is a smudge-free product
  • Designed for sensitive skin
Cons
  • Difficult to get a fine, straight line

The Docolor Long-Lasting Liquid Eyeliner is one of my favorite waterproof eyeliners. It produces sharp lines to help produce unique looks like the Arabic style, the winged style, and the fishtail style. You can use this tool to express yourself and try out new looks that wouldn’t be possible with a traditional pencil eyeliner.

Many eyeliners claim to be waterproof and smudge-proof when they really aren’t. That’s not the case with this waterproof eyeliner. After sifting through countless reviews on this product, I have heard people rave on and on about how this product never smudges, even when submerged in water. People have gone skydiving with this product, skiing with this product, and one person even said they ran a half marathon while wearing this product.

This product surprisingly lasts a long time. People who have used this product say it lasts around three to four months when using it every day! Others who only use it a couple times of week have noted that it can last for up to six months! That’s pretty impressive in my opinion. Not having to replace this eyeliner as often will save you time and money.

There is one negative about this product that I would like to direct your attention to; it is only available in the color black. This is common with liquid eyeliners but I still want my readers to understand this before they consider buying this product. As black is the most used eyeliner color, we still consider this to be one of the best waterproof eyeliners of 2019.

Key Features
  • Quick-drying formula
  • 0.4mm ultra-fine felt tip
  • East to grip applicator
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 24 hours
  • Product Form: Liquid
  • Weight: .80 ounces
Pros
  • Produces precise, sharp lines
  • Won't smudge all day long
  • Dries in the matter of seconds
Cons
  • Only one color available

Maybelline Unstoppable Eyeliner is a great choice for waterproof eyeliners. This type of eyeliner comes in five unique shades: cinnabar, espresso, onyx, pewter, and sapphire. Out of all of those colors, I would have to say that cinnabar is my favorite. It is a deep, sparkly maroon color that is the perfect addition to any makeup collection. It can brighten up even the dullest eyes and it goes great with neutral eyeshadows palettes. My next pick would be espresso, as it is a darker brown color that is just a little more subtle than black eyeliner; it’s ideal for everyday use. Honestly, though, any color you choose will look great!

This eyeliner is smudge resistant and it lasts all day long. When it does come time to take off your eyeliner, all you need to do it grab a cotton ball, water, and a mild cleanser. Pour the cleanser on to the cotton ball and add water. Gently rub the cotton ball around your eye in a circular motion. This eyeliner will come off in a matter of minutes. This process won’t leave your skin red or irritated, which is a huge blessing.

At only .16 ounces in size, this eyeliner is not going to last you a long time. You will have to replace it every month or so, depending on how frequently you are using it. Despite this minor flaw, I still consider the Maybelline Unstoppable Eyeliner to one of the best waterproof eyeliners of 2019. Don’t take my word for it; try it out for yourself today!

Key Features
  • Self-sharpening tip
  • Five different shades to choose from
  • Smude-free product
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 24 hours
  • Product Form: Pencil
  • Weight: 0.16 ounces
Pros
  • Plenty of colors available
  • Made with a smudge-resistant formula
  • Easy to apply
Cons
  • Product is small in size—will have to replace often

The COVERGIRL Ink It! waterproof eyeliner is one of the best waterproof eyeliners around. COVERGIRL is a trusted brand that has been around since the early 1960s. They produce affordable makeup that is top-of-the-line. They also have an excellent customer service team if you were to run into any issues.

This eyeliner by COVERGIRL comes in five bold colors: aquamarine, black, charcoal, cocoa, and violet. Aquamarine is the ideal choice for those with blue eyes, as it will make them pop. Violet is the ideal option for people with green or hazel eyes, as it helps their eyes stand out more. Black, charcoal, and violet goes with just about any eye color; they just create a more subtle look.

One of the most frustrating aspects of pencil eyeliners back in the day was having to sharpen them over and over again. They would often break and much of the eyeliner would be wasted. That’s why I was ecstatic to discover that this eyeliner sharpens itself. Thanks to the mechanism build inside the pencil frame, you never have to worry about whether or not this eyeliner has the sharpest point possible. It will always be ready to use!

The biggest downside to choosing this eyeliner is the fact that it only lasts for twelve hours. Unless you are sleeping the other half of the day, a reapplication of the product will be necessary. Despite this minor flaw, I still consider this one of the best waterproof eyeliners on the market. Try it for yourself today!

Key Features
  • Self-sharpening pencil
  • 5 colors available to choose from
  • Smudge-proof
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 12 hours
  • Product Form: Pencil
  • Weight: 0.16 ounces
Pros
  • The pencil will sharpen itself
  • Color options help you differentiate your look
  • Pencil glides on smoothly
Cons
  • Only lasts 12 hours

The Music Flower 2 in 1 Black and Brown Eyeliner Set is a great deal, as it comes with both black and brown eyeliner. That means you don’t have to choose between the two; you get both! You can use the black eyeliner when you want a bolder look and the brown eyeliner when you want a more natural look. You can even coordinate which eyeliner you wear with your outfit each day. One important thing to know about this type of eyeliner is that it must be applied with a makeup brush, but they include the applicators with the set. If you want another option, check here for our top recommendations for makeup brushes sets.

This waterproof eyeliner stays on for up to 24 hours, so it will last all day long. Whether you want your makeup to last the entire school day, the entire workday, or your entire fun day at the beach, this waterproof mascara has got you covered. It won’t smudge or run down your face. Its colors are intense and they won’t fade throughout the day. This waterproof eyeliner is also extremely easy to remove. A little makeup remover and a cotton ball should do the track. No elbow grease required.

Since this product is applied with a brush, it can be difficult to get those sharp, defined lines necessary for specific looks. This may have to be used in conjunction with a liquid eyeliner in order to produce the winged look, for example. Regardless, I still highly recommend this product; it is one of the best waterproof eyeliners of 2019!

Key Features
  • Two colors in this set
  • Provides intense color
  • Easy to remove
  • Gel eyeliner, needs applicator to use (included)
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 24 hours
  • Product Form: Gel
  • Weight: .7 ounces
Pros
  • You get both brown and black eyeliner in this set
  • It's easy to apply
  • It dries fast
  • Comes with applicator brushes
Cons
  • Precision lines can be difficult

I am so excited to talk about the Neutrogena Liquid Eyeliner, as it is one of my favorite eyeliners and I believe it is one of the best eyeliners of 2019. Two things that make this product stand out are what it is made from and how it is made. While it does have a wide assortment of other ingredients, its main ingredients are honey and coconut. These natural products are great for your skin and they won’t irritate the eyes. That’s probably a huge reason why this eyeliner is hypoallergenic. Neutrogena makes these products without testing them on animals, earning the cruelty free stamp of approval. This is a product you can proudly stand by.

Many liquid eyeliners only come in one color, but this liquid eyeliner actually has three different colors to choose from: jet black, brown, or deep purple. These color choices help you differentiate your look, according to what style you are going for that day! The brown can be used for an everyday look, the jet black can be used for a bolder look, and the deep purple can be used for a sexy look. No matter which color you choose, you can rest assured knowing your eyeliner is quick drying and long lasting.

There is one negative I feel I must bring to your attention though. I have read countless reviews and found a few instances where people with oily skin experienced smudging with this product. While I have not personally had this issue, it is still something you will want to take in consideration when deciding if this is the best waterproof eyeliner for you. In my personal opinion, it is still one of the best, despite this minor flaw.

Key Features
  • Provides an even line in just one stroke
  • Quick drying and long lasting
  • Comes with an easy-to-apply applicator
Specifications
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • Wear Time: 24 hours
  • Product Form: Liquid
  • Weight: 0.48 ounces
Pros
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Made with natural products like honey and coconut
  • It is a cruelty-free product
Cons
  • Smuding possible on oily skin

Eyeliners can be used to bring attention to the eyes and capture a variety of different looks. They are an essential part of everyone’s makeup routine. We recommend using the best waterproof eyeliner you can find, as it is less likely to smudge, run down your face, or create those less than desirable raccoon eyes. High quality waterproof eyeliners can withstand a long swimming session, a sweaty workout, or a good cry. It's just a matter of knowing the right way to remove it at the end of the day, and ensuring that it lasts.

Even once you have established you want a waterproof eyeliner, there are still so much choices available. You can easily get overwhelmed by the selection here, which is exactly why we have developed this guide. Let us break down your different options in more detail, so that you can find the best waterproof eyeliner for you!

Liquid Waterproof Eyeliners

Liquid waterproof eyeliners come with a brush applicator, which often allows for more defined lines. It usually goes on smoothly, but you will have to allow it a few seconds to dry. This type of waterproof eyeliner can be used to capture unique looks like a wing or a cat-eye. It is the optimal tool for any look that requires preciousness and delicacy. Liquid eyeliners are typically only available in brown or black ink.

Pencil Waterproof Eyeliners

This is the original style for waterproof eyeliners. In fact, it wasn’t but a few decades ago that pencil eyeliners were the only option. Pencil eyeliners have evolved over the years and aren’t limited to the standard pencil look anymore. Now, some of the pencils come in a retractable plastic cylinder to eliminate the need for sharpening. Most pencil eyeliners today are thicker, creamier and overall higher quality. There also seems to be a better selection of colors with this type of eyeliner.

Gel Waterproof Eyeliners

This type of waterproof eyeliner is the perfect mix between liquid eyeliners and pencil eyeliners. They have a thicker consistency than liquid liners and are even creamier than pencils. Because of their consistency, they are less likely to smudge than any other type of eyeliner. They are often found in a small tub and must be applied with a brush. Gel eyeliners can come in a variety of colors, but brown and black is most common.

Wrap Up

Now that you have made it to the end of our buyer’s guide, we hope you have a better idea of the various choices for the best waterproof eyeliners are out there. No two waterproof eyeliners are the same. You have to compare and contrast the different options available in order to find the best waterproof eyeliner for you! We wish you the best of luck!

Resources — BeautyGarde, StyleCaster

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