15 Best Eyeliners For Tightlining Your Waterline (2024), Expert-Approved

If you are wondering how to get that most-desired doe-eyed look without using eye makeup and fake eyelashes, then you are in the right place. With the best timeless beauty eyeliner for tightlining, you can stop wondering already. Tightlining is a simple technique to make your eyes pop out. Tightlining is the art of applying the eyeliner close to the upper waterline and roots of the eyelashes to fill the gaps between the lashes. This creates an illusion of thicker, fuller, and more defined lashes and gives you a wide-eyed look with exceptional results.

It is a simple hack and deserves to be included in your eye makeup technique and routine, especially for the no-makeup days. First, however, you need to choose the right type of eyeliner to get the desired effect. In this article, we have made a list of the 15 most effective eyeliners for tightlining. Take a look.

15 Best Tightlining Eyeliners That Will Make Your Eyes Pop

1. Best For Sensitive Eyes:L’Oreal Paris Infallible Lacquer Eyeliner – Blackest Black

4.5

Image: L'oreal Paris

Now 9% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.99

This blackest of black eyeliner comes with a gel eyeliner brush that makes it easy for you to create clean, intense, and precise lines smoothly. This expertly crafted waterline liner has a gel formula and is also celebrity-endorsed. It also gives a high-shine lacquered finish and is dedicated to your service for 24 hours after application. It is tested ophthalmologically and therefore suitable for users who wear contact lenses or have sensitive eyes. Additionally, the fade-free formula of this eyeliner secures its place as one of the best tightline eyeliner of this year. In this YouTube video, you will find a detailed review of this product along with the reviewer’s experience.

Quick Tip

If you find your hand shaking too much while using the liner, try clenching your toes and lower body to steady yourself. To gain more stability, you can prop your elbows up on flat surface.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The overwhelming 1,308 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.

2. Best Waterproof Formula:Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eyeliner – Stingray

4.3

Image: Stilacosmetics

BUY ON AMAZON | $22

The formula of this smudge-proof eyeliner is a mélange of moisturizing components including Vitamin E and therefore gives you a smooth glide while applying. Though we aim to find the best tightline eyeliner, this retractable eyeliner can multitask as a classic pencil liner and a smudgy eye shadow. Stila Smudge Sticks not only come in a variety of shades, but they also come in a variant of hues such as pop, shimmer, and matte. In addition to being moisturizing, the formula is waterproof and transfer-proof, hence less likely to fade on wear. Check out this video on YouTube for a detailed understanding of the product.

Quick Tip

Use a magnifying mirror and position it below your eye level to improve your vision and fine-tune the wingtip.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

Almost 582 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.

3. Best Pigmentation: Lune+Aster Dawn to Dusk Gel Eyeliner

4.1

Image: Lune Aster

BUY ON AMAZON | $22

The Lune+Aster Dawn to Dusk Gel Eyeliner is a long-lasting eyeliner that can be the perfect addition to your makeup collection for creating defined and precise eye looks. This long-wearing eyeliner is smudge-proof and waterproof, ensuring that your eye makeup stays in place all day. The smooth, soft, and creamy gel formula glides on effortlessly and with precision, enhancing your eyes. Whether you’re looking to create a subtle everyday look or a dramatic winged liner, this eyeliner has got you covered.

	L'Oreal Paris Infallible Lacquer Eyeliner - Blackest Black Best For Sensitive Eyes	Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eyeliner - Stingray Best Waterproof Formula	Lune+Aster Dawn to Dusk Gel Eyeliner Best Pigmentation
	Buy Now	Buy Now	Buy Now
Color	Blackest Black	Stingray	Navy
Dimensions	1.87 x 0.97 x 7.04 inches	4 x 5 x 6 inches	-
Weight	1.52 Ounces	0.32 Ounces	-
Rating
Reviews	1,308	582	-
Price	$9.99	$22	$22

4. Best Free Of Harsh Chemicals:Vasanti Kajal Waterline – Intense Black

4.1

Image: Vasanti Cosmetics

BUY ON AMAZON | $19.0

This eyeliner for waterline has a creamy formula, and therefore, smoothly glides on the surface. The kajal has a velvety matte finish and lasts long despite being applied to the watery rims of the eye. Free of harsh chemicals, this dermatologist-tested kajal waterline eyeliner is safe for sensitive eyes in addition to being one of the cheapest eyeliners. To get that dark color in one precise stroke, you can try out Vasanti Kajal Waterline eyeliner.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 3,161 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.

5. Best Quick Drying Eyeliner:Skone Insanely Intense Tattooed Waterproof Eyeliner – Jet Black

4.4

Image: Skone

BUY ON AMAZON | $21.49

As the name suggests, this eyeliner stays all day tattooed to the applied area and therefore works wonders for oily eyelids. In addition to being waterproof and smudge-proof, this eyeliner dries fast after applying. Its liquid-felt tip brush gives tight and crisp strokes, making precise and effortless application on the waterline. The Skone’s richly pigmented formula gives an intense color payoff when applied.

6. Best Long Staying Power:It Tightline Full Lash Length Black Primer With Peptide Enhancing Serum

4.4

Image: It Cosmetics

BUY ON AMAZON | $24.0

Get most of your eye make-up needs sorted with this one black liner. In addition to being an eyeliner, the It Tightline also functions as a lash primer and mascara. Furthermore, the ultra-conditioning formula of this product contains proteins, biotin, collagen, olive, jojoba, and avocado oil that nourishes and enhances the lashes naturally. This waterproof liner formula ensures that the eyeliner stays on even after 12 hours of party time.

7. Best Resistant To Fading:Laura Mercier Tightline Cake Eye Liner – Black Ebony

4.4

Image: Laura Mercier

BUY ON AMAZON | $34.99

This cake eyeliner glides smoothly across your lash line and stays on for as long as you need to stay out. For tightlining, this dermatologist-tested powder formula works better than other eyeliners in terms of water-resistance. There is no smudging, flaking, or smearing with this tightline eyeliner, making it one of the best eyeliner for the waterline. If you want to know more about this product, check out this video on YouTube. for a detailed review and a reviewer’s experience with the product.

8. Best Blendable: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil-Smoke

4.2

Image: Urban Decay

BUY ON AMAZON | $25

The Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil is a must-have for any beauty lover. With 5 unique finishes, including matte, shimmer, glitter, satin, and metallic, you will surely find the perfect look for any occasion. The ultra-creamy and blendable formula glides effortlessly onto your lids, providing vibrant color that does not smudge or wear off for up to 16 hours. It is highly effective in tightlining your waterline and gives your eyes a defined look. It is infused with vitamin E, jojoba oil, and cottonseed oil that help hydrate your lids. Additionally, this liner is cruelty-free.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has received 890 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.

9. Best Creamy Texture:Mally Beauty Eyeliner – Milk Chocolate

4.3

Image: Mally Beauty

BUY ON AMAZON | $13.5

Tired of the same old black for tight lining your lashes? Don’t worry, Mally Beauty Eyeliner brings you a range of shades to choose from. Specifically, the Milk Chocolate color that gives you a nude look to your eyelashes. When you tightline with a color like that, your eyes seem defined and bigger but without the visible traces of an eyeliner. Additionally, this eyeliner is waterproof and smudge-proof, giving the wearer ample time to party with that smooth texture and no-makeup look.

10. Best Sweat-Proof:Clio Sharp, So Simple Waterproof Pencil Liner – Black

No products found.

Define your eyelashes flawlessly with this creamy smooth pencil liner. The liner is of high pigment quality in addition to having a self-sharpening tip that makes it very easy to apply on the waterline. The waterproof, sweat-proof, and smudge-proof features further promotes the perspective of using this liner as tightline eyeliner.

11. Best Tear-Proof:Mireneese – Black

4

Image: Mirenesseusa

BUY ON AMAZON | $22.97

A multitasking eyeliner, this product is perfect to achieve that fuller and thicker lashes look. In addition to being amazing to tight line eyes, this product works as a lash primer and mascara. The unique brush of this liner reaches even the shorter lashes, making sure that they are coated from root to tip. Proper application of it not only defines your lashes but also lifts and extends them. What makes it a prime candidate in the category of best eyeliner for tightlining you ask? Its amazing quality of being both tear and smudge-proof.

12. Best For Waterproof: JOAH Make Her Gel-ous Gel Eyeliner

4

Image: Joah

BUY ON AMAZON | $8.49

The Joah Make Her Gel-ous Gel Eyeliner has a high-quality, long-wearing formula that delivers intense and bold color in a single stroke. This eyeliner is perfect for creating a dramatic and defined look, and it glides on effortlessly. Its self-sharpening pencil ensures a precise and smooth application, making it a convenient and hassle-free product for any makeup routine. It comes in a range of versatile and complementary shades, allowing you to find the perfect shade to match your eye color or to create a dramatic look.

13. Best Smear-Free Eyeliner:NARS Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner – Black

4.1

BUY ON AMAZON | $27.62

This highly pigmented eyeliner is perfect for achieving that dramatic, intense look you desire. The formula is long-lasting and is easy to apply with one smooth glide. In addition to Black, NARS Eyeliner comes in a variety of colors with the claim that it does not cake or smear after application.

14. Best Flawless Silky Finish:NYX Always Keepin’ It Tight Eyeliner – Black

4.1

Image: Nyx

BUY ON AMAZON | $8.22

This slim, retractable eyeliner gives the flawless silky finish to your desired natural look. Made with waterline in mind, this eyeliner is qualified for the serious job of tightlining. NYX Always Keepin’ It Tight Eyeliner is quite a candidate when it comes to securing the look of long and thick lashes for you.

15. Best For Natural Look:Esqido Gel Eyeliner – Black

3.8

Image: Esqido

BUY ON AMAZON | $17.95

This gel liner is perfect for you if you plan to rock a natural look throughout the day without any worries. This liner is rich in color. Its ultra-smooth application takes only one stroke to draw the clean tightline. It seamlessly blends with your fake lashes when applied to the inner eye, and the built-in sharpener ensures that the drawn line is on point.

Now that you have a list of the best eyeliners for tighlighting, here’s a buying guide to help you understand how to pick one.

A Buying Guide To Help You Choose the Best Tightline Eyeliner

What Is Tightlining Eyeliner?

Theoretically, any regular eyeliner can be used for tightlining. However, in practice, the eyeliner you use for your upper waterline should be skin-friendly, waterproof, and smudge-proof. The chosen tightline eyeliner should also be applied evenly and without any blotches. Tightlining can define your eye’s beauty, whilst creating the illusion that you are not wearing any eyeliner at all. In case of doubts, help yourself to the scores of tightline eyeliner tutorials available on the internet before trying it out at home.

What’s The Best Eyeliner For Tightlining?

Typically, there are 3 types of eyeliner that are commonly available: pencil eyeliner, liquid eyeliner, and gel eyeliner. All these categories have their own pros and cons. For instance, a tightlining eyeliner pencil can be resistant to make an even mark on your waterline, while the success rate of a liquid and gel eyeliner is dependent on the makings of the application brush. Tightlining with liquid liner can require more practice than gel or pencil eyeliner. Therefore, it is not enough to narrow down your perfect tightline eyeliner to the kind of eyeliner you are comfortable with. To choose the best eyeliner for tightlining you need to indulge in the minute details. To help you decide on the best tightline eyeliner for you, we present our review of the best 2021 eyeliners for tightlining.

How To Select The Right Tightline Eyeliner?

Though you may have always been a pencil liner girl, it is okay to step out of your comfort zone and try out other bases such as gel and liquid formulas. Explore the textures to find out what suits your requirements the best. Tightlining makeup constitutes putting a foreign substance in the inner lid of your eye, which is quite a sensitive area. Make sure that your chosen tightline eyeliner is safe for your skin. Not to forget the essentials, the selected eyeliner should be waterproof, smudge-proof and long-lasting so that you can flawlessly carry your natural look throughout the day without having to retouch your eye make-up every other hour.

How To Tightline?

Step 1: Curl your lashes and dry your upper lash line with a soft tissue. These easy steps make application easier.

Step 2: Choose your preferred tightline eyeliner— pencil, liquid, or gel. If you don’t have a favorite, decide according to the look you are going for.

Step 3: Lift your eyelids from the brow and apply the tightline eyeliner on the upper waterline. If you are having trouble drawing a straight line, put dots at the roots of your eyelashes, and join them with one single stroke.

Step 4: Set the look with some powder or nude eye-shadow to avoid it from smudging. If you see clumps, you have applied too much of it.

Kerrin Jackson, a 4-time Emmy-nominated film and television makeup artist, says, “Tightlining is a fun way to create a bolder look for your eyes. If you struggle with applying it, or you have a shaky hand, rest a powder puff on your face, underneath your hand when you apply the liner. This will help support your hand and also prevent making a mess as you go. While tightlining is an effective technique to create drama on your eyes, it is important to remember to clean your makeup off at the end of the day as makeup residue can get left behind in your eyes and it’s vital to remove it all to look after your eyes.”

Infographic: Tips For Precise And Long-Lasting Tightlining

The secret to achieving a precise and long-lasting tightline starts with finding a top-notch waterproof eyeliner formula. You also need to follow a few tips and techniques that will help you steady your game and master the art. Check out the infographic below to learn more.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use liquid eyeliner for tightlining?

Yes. Many liquid eyeliners are dermatologically tested and clinically proven to be safe for sensitive skin. You can pick a waterproof eyeliner for tightlining that dries fast for easy wear.

Is tightlining safe?

Too much of anything can have negative effects. Stick to moderation and pick out the days when you think tightlining is essential to your look.

Is this tightlining for everyone?

Tightlining is a make-up choice like any other. If you choose a no-makeup look, but you still want your eyes to look defined and bright you may opt for tightlining.

Is gel eyeliner good for tightlining?

Yes, gel eyeliners are highly pigmented and with the right brush, they can be used to tightline your eyes.

Does tightlining make eyes look bigger?

Yes, tightlining enhances the eyes and makes them look bigger.

How do you get eyeliner to stay on your waterline?

Start by using a cotton q-tip along your waterline to absorb excess moisture. Use a thin brush to rub some eyeshadow along the waterline and then use the gel eyeliner to tightline the eyes. This way it will stay on longer.

How do you tightline without smudging?

Use a waterproof, gel eyeliner to tightline the eyes without smudging. While applying it, curl your toes to prevent shaky hands; eventually your hands will become naturally steadier.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author Srijani Roy Chowdhury is a beauty and lifestyle enthusiast who loves experimenting with different kinds of makeup products. She believes in using the best eyeliner for tightlining your waterline to achieve the desired doe-eyed look. She has thoroughly researched these eyeliners and sifted through online reviews to help her readers pick the best ones. Tightlining fills the gaps between the lashes and creates an illusion of defined lashes even when flaunting a no-makeup look!

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Best Eye Pencils (Eyeliners) For Your Waterline
Best Eyeliners In The World
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Best Eyeliners For Sensitive Eyes

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Kerrin JacksonMakeup Artist

   

Kerrin is a 4-time Emmy-nominated film and television makeup artist. She has worked on TV shows, such as The Walking Dead, The Mandalorian, and Our Flag Means Death, and films, such as Star Wars - Revenge of the Sith, Star Wars - Attack of the Clones, Guardians of the Galaxy 2, The Hobbit Trilogy, and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead...more

Srijani Roy Chowdhury Associate Commerce Editor

 

Srijani is an associate commerce editor with a master's degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal. She is certified in makeup techniques and is also a certified style and image consultant. She began her career as a freelance content writer, has worked as a journalist in several media houses, and has over three years...more

Srijita DeCommerce Writer

Srijita De is a makeup and fashion enthusiast with a passion for empowering readers through practical tips and tricks to present their best selves with confidence. Armed with a postgraduate degree in English and Literature from the University of Calcutta, she has honed her writing skills and developed an in-depth understanding of the beauty and fashion world. Prior to her...more

Krati DarakAssociate Commerce Editor

Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches. She has also worked with a number of high-profile beauty brands on a freelance basis to upscale their businesses. Krati...more