Top 5 Eyeliners for Under Eyes: Your Best Picks

Ever look in the mirror and feel like your eyes need a little something extra to pop? Maybe you’ve tried lining your lower lash line, but it ended up smudging or just didn’t look quite right. You’re not alone! Many of us want to enhance our eyes with eyeliner, but the delicate skin under our eyes can be tricky to work with. It can feel frustrating when your carefully applied liner disappears after a few hours or makes your eyes look smaller instead of bigger.

Choosing the perfect eyeliner for under your eyes is more than just picking a color. You want something that lasts, brightens your gaze, and doesn’t irritate your sensitive skin. This guide is here to help you unlock the secrets to flawless under-eye eyeliner. We’ll explore different types of eyeliners, share tips for application, and show you how to make your eyes truly shine.

By the end of this post, you’ll have the confidence and know-how to select and apply eyeliner under your eyes like a pro. Get ready to discover how to create stunning looks that last all day!

Top Eyeliner For Under Eyes Recommendations

SaleNo. 1
Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, Smudge-Proof, Eye Makeup with Built-In Sharpener, Long-Lasting, Matte Finish, 201 Black, 2 pack
  • LASTING EYELINER: Rich color looks freshly applied all day long; transfer-proof, waterproof, smudge-proof and fade-proof
  • UP TO 24HR WEAR: Creates the look you want and stays on strong
  • EASY APPLICATION: Pencil eyeliner glides on, creating intensely defined lines that can go from subtle to dramatic. Includes built-in sharpener for the perfect pointed tip and a smudger to blend.
  • TWO FINISHES: Available in 12 totally wearable matte and shimmer shades
  • OPHTHALMOLOGIST TESTED: Suitable for use on waterline and comfortable to wear
No. 2
Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, 202 Black Brown, 0.01 oz
  • LASTING EYELINER: Rich color looks freshly applied all day long; transfer-proof, waterproof, smudge-proof and fade-proof
  • UP TO 24HR WEAR: Creates the look you want and stays on strong
  • EASY APPLICATION: Pencil eyeliner glides on, creating intensely defined lines that can go from subtle to dramatic. Includes built-in sharpener for the perfect pointed tip and a smudger to blend.
  • TWO FINISHES: Available in 12 totally wearable matte and shimmer shades
  • OPHTHALMOLOGIST TESTED: Suitable for use on waterline and comfortable to wear
No. 3
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Mechanical Eye Pencil,Vivid Rich Mechanical, Creamy Retractable Eyeliner - Always Onyx, Black Eyeliner
  • Retractable Eye Liner: A line and defined eye is just a twist away with this eyeliner pen; Intense pigment covers like a liquid eyeliner while its creamy formula holds for hours; No need to sharpen just twist up and apply for a winged out eyeliner look
  • Smudge Proof and Smooth: This smudge proof eyeliner glides on effortlessly and lasts all day through heat and humidity no sad bleeding eyeliner here; Available in natural to bright shades, any eyeliner look is possible with our Retractable Eye Pencil
  • All Eyes On Eye Makeup: Complete your look with our full range of eye makeup products ranging from eyeshadow palettes to false eyelashes, eyeliners, concealers, setting sprays, eyebrow makeup, eyeshadow primer and more
  • Cruelty Free Cosmetics: We believe animals belong in our arms, not in a lab; All of our makeup is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty free brand; We don't test any of our products on animals
  • Discover NYX Professional Makeup: Try all of our professional makeup products today from eyeshadow, eyeliner, and false lashes to liquid lipstick, lip gloss, primer, concealer, setting sprays and eyebrow makeup
No. 4
REVLON ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, 201 Black, 0.01 oz
  • LASTING EYELINER: Rich color looks freshly applied all day long; transfer-proof, waterproof, smudge-proof and fade-proof
  • UP TO 24HR WEAR: Creates the look you want and stays on strong
  • EASY APPLICATION: Pencil eyeliner glides on, creating intensely defined lines that can go from subtle to dramatic. Includes built-in sharpener for the perfect pointed tip and a smudger to blend.
  • TWO FINISHES: Available in 12 totally wearable matte and shimmer shades
  • OPHTHALMOLOGIST TESTED: Suitable for use on waterline and comfortable to wear
SaleNo. 5
Rimmel London Exaggerate Waterproof Eye Definer Eyeliner, Highly Pigmented, Long-Wearing, Built-In Smudger, 262, Blackest Black, 0.01oz
  • Built-in smudger and sharpener.
  • Intensely pigmented shades.
  • High-precision lines and subtle blending.
  • Highly pigmented, waterproof eyeliner formula.
  • Up to 10 hours of long-lasting wear.
No. 6
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Mechanical Eye Pencil, Vivid Rich Mechanical, Creamy Retractable Eyeliner - Under the Moonstone, Slate Grey Eyeliner
  • Create A Rich Eyeliner Look: The Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil vault is finally unlocked! Grab the richest matte, shimmer & metallic eyeliner shades! From spicy pearl to amber stunner, these razor-sharp eye liners will create the richest eye look ever
  • 1-Swipe Eye Liner: Our Vivid Rich Eyeliner Pencil comes in 12, 1-swipe vivid shades, each pencil eyeliner loaded with creamy gem-tone pigments for liner looks made easy! Mix & match our precious gem toned eye liner pencils or go monochrome
  • All Eyes On Eye Makeup: Complete your look with our full range of eye makeup products ranging from eyeshadow palettes to false eyelashes, eyeliners, concealers, setting sprays, eyebrow makeup, eyeshadow primer and more
  • Cruelty Free Cosmetics: We believe animals belong in our arms, not in a lab; All of our makeup is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty free brand; We don't test any of our products on animals
  • Remove Maybelline Makeup With Micellar Water: Use Garnier Micellar Water as a gentle makeup remover at night, and as a facial cleanser in the morning to prep skin for Maybelline makeup
SaleNo. 7
MISS ROSE M Gel Eyeliner, Black Eyeliner Pencils, delineador de ojos contra el agua, Easy to Use, Eye Makeup for Women (Black)
  • 🖤【BLACK GEL EYELINER】- The matte black gel eyeliner tool has a smooth and delicate texture,giving your skin a soft touch.Strong adhesion,no halo,thick and thin controllable silky black eye-liners,which can enlarge your eyes and create mysterious and sexy cat eyes.
  • 🖤【RICH COOL BLACK COLOR】- Smooth lines and cool black color, easy to apply and colored, and the natural formula does not irritate eyes.The soft tip of the cream eyeliner stick draws smoothly and evenly without agglomeration,easily shaping different and charming eye liner makeup.
  • 🖤【UNIQUE LIPSTICK SHAPE DESIGN】- This gel eyeliner pencil stick has a stylish lipstick-shaped appearance and a rotating design, easy to carry and use.You can choose to directly control the intensity of the drawing or use the eyeliner brush to draw according to your needs for different makeup such as eye shadow or eyeliner,or for the thick and fine lines.
  • 🖤【SMUDGE PROOF】- This eyeliner gel has natural smudge proof and sweat-proof formula,so you don’t have to worry about losing your makeup easily.Of course, makeup remover can also be used to remove makeup easily without any pigment residues.
  • 🖤【CUSTOMER SERVICE】- Customer Service is our first priority. If you have any questions. Pls feel free to contact us,We will solve your problem in the first time to ensure your best shopping experience.
SaleNo. 8
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Jumbo Eye Pencil, Blendable Eyeshadow Stick & Eyeliner Pencil - Milk (White)
  • Eyeliner Crayon: This blendable radiant eyeliner pencil is a total triple threat; Use Jumbo Eyeshadow Pencil as a creamy eyeshadow, eye liner and highlighter; Apply it to your waterlines, inner corners and entire lid for a pop of intense color
  • Smooth and Versatile: This creamy eye liner pencil glides on effortlessly, no pulling, tugging or fading; Apply it as an eyeshadow, highlighter, or eyeliner and choose from a rainbow of vivid hues in multiple finishes from matte to metallic
  • All Eyes On Eye Makeup: Complete your look with our full range of eye makeup products ranging from eyeshadow palettes to false eyelashes, eyeliners, concealers, setting sprays, eyebrow makeup, eyeshadow primer and more
  • Cruelty Free Cosmetics: We believe animals belong in our arms, not in a lab; All of our makeup is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty free brand; We don't test any of our products on animals
  • Discover NYX Professional Makeup: Try all of our professional makeup products today from eyeshadow, eyeliner, and false lashes to liquid lipstick, lip gloss, primer, concealer, setting sprays and eyebrow makeup

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Eyeliner for Your Under Eyes

Finding the right eyeliner for your under eyes can make a big difference in your makeup look. It can brighten your eyes, make them appear larger, or add a touch of subtle definition. But with so many options, how do you pick the best one? This guide will help you understand what to look for.

Key Features to Look For

When you’re shopping for under-eye eyeliner, keep these important features in mind:

  • Formula: You want a formula that won’t smudge or fade easily. Look for “long-wearing,” “waterproof,” or “smudge-proof” claims.
  • Color: While black is classic, consider other colors. Brown can be softer for everyday wear. White or nude liners can make your eyes look bigger and brighter.
  • Application: A fine tip or a creamy pencil is usually easiest for precise application under the eyes. Some people prefer a brush for a more blended look.
  • Comfort: The eyeliner should feel comfortable on your delicate under-eye skin. It shouldn’t feel dry, tugging, or irritating.
Important Materials

The ingredients in your eyeliner matter. Here are a few things to be aware of:

  • Waxes and Oils: These help the eyeliner glide smoothly and make it last longer.
  • Pigments: These give the eyeliner its color. Good pigments provide rich, true color.
  • Preservatives: These keep the product fresh. Some people prefer to avoid certain preservatives if they have sensitive skin.
  • Emollients: These are ingredients that soften and smooth the skin, making the application more comfortable.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Several things can make an under-eye eyeliner great or not so great.

What Makes it Better:
  • Smooth Application: The eyeliner should glide on easily without skipping or needing to press hard.
  • Staying Power: It should stay put all day without creasing or fading.
  • Pigmentation: Rich, vibrant color makes a noticeable difference.
  • Gentle Formula: It should be kind to your sensitive under-eye area.
What Makes it Worse:
  • Smudging: If it smears easily, it won’t look good for long.
  • Dryness: A dry formula can tug at your skin and be uncomfortable.
  • Irritation: Some ingredients can cause redness or stinging.
  • Fading: Eyeliner that disappears after a few hours is disappointing.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you use your under-eye eyeliner and what you expect from it are very important.

  • Brightening: A white or nude liner in the waterline can instantly make your eyes look more awake and bigger. This is great for tired eyes or when you want a more open look.
  • Definition: A soft brown or grey liner smudged just below the lower lash line can add subtle definition without looking too harsh. This is good for a natural makeup look.
  • Creating a “Pop”: For a more dramatic look, you might use a colored liner. Think blues, purples, or even greens to make your eye color stand out.
  • Everyday Wear: For daily use, you probably want something comfortable and easy to apply that won’t smudge. A creamy pencil is often a good choice.
  • Special Occasions: For events, you might opt for a waterproof formula that will last through photos and dancing.

Choosing the right under-eye eyeliner is all about understanding your needs and what the product offers. With this guide, you’re ready to find a liner that makes your eyes shine!


Frequently Asked Questions About Under-Eye Eyeliner

Q1: What is the best type of eyeliner for under eyes?

A: The best type is usually a creamy pencil or a gel liner. They are gentle and easy to control for the delicate skin under your eyes.

Q2: Can I use regular black eyeliner under my eyes?

A: Yes, you can, but be careful. Some black eyeliners can be too harsh or smudge easily. Look for ones made for sensitive eyes or that are long-wearing.

Q3: How do I stop my under-eye eyeliner from smudging?

A: Use a primer specifically for the under-eye area before applying eyeliner. Also, choose a waterproof or smudge-proof formula. Setting it with a tiny bit of translucent powder can help too.

Q4: What color eyeliner makes eyes look bigger?

A: White or nude colored eyeliners are best for making eyes look bigger. Apply them to your waterline.

Q5: Is it okay to put eyeliner on my waterline?

A: Yes, it’s okay if you use an eyeliner made for the waterline. This area is more sensitive, so choose a product that is safe for internal use and won’t irritate your eyes.

Q6: How long should under-eye eyeliner last?

A: A good quality under-eye eyeliner should last at least 6-8 hours without smudging or fading. Waterproof formulas can last even longer.

Q7: Can eyeliner cause dark circles?

A: Eyeliner itself doesn’t cause dark circles. However, harsh scrubbing to remove it can irritate the skin and make existing dark circles look worse.

Q8: What’s the difference between eyeliner for lash lines and under eyes?

A: Eyeliner for under eyes is usually softer and gentler. It’s designed to not irritate the sensitive skin or waterline. Eyeliner for lash lines can sometimes be more intense or precise.

Q9: Can I use a liquid eyeliner under my eyes?

A: It’s generally not recommended for the waterline. Liquid liners can be too harsh. For the area just below the lower lashes, a very fine-tipped liquid liner might work if you’re careful, but pencils are usually safer.

Q10: How do I choose the right shade of brown eyeliner?

A: For a natural look, choose a brown that is a shade or two lighter than your natural lash color. Darker browns can be more dramatic. Consider your skin tone too; warmer browns suit some people better than cooler ones.