15 Best Gel Eyeliners (Reviews) Of 2024: Expert’s Choice
For eyes that speak louder than words and help you express yourself better.
Do you want to create a precise eyeliner look without creating any fuss? Do you secretly wonder how celebrity makeup artists achieve the perfect winged liner every time? A pot of gel liner will conveniently do the job for you. When it comes to eyeliners, the gel ones are clear winners. The best gel eyeliners are highly pigmented, smudge-proof, long-wearing, and easy to apply. Whether you want to create a winged-eye, cat-eye, or fox-eye look, a good gel eyeliner is all you need. Keep reading to check out the 15 best gel eyeliners!
In This Article
15 Best Gel Eyeliners Of 2024 That You Must Try
1. Best Highly Pigmented Formula:Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
A true original. This award-winning, long-wearing eyeliner offers the precision of a liquid liner with the ease of a gel-based formula – all with 12 hours of waterproof, sweat, and humidity-resistant wear. This eyeliner is available in a wide range of shades that offer exceptional results when applied with precision.
Pros
- Highly pigmented
- Long-wearing
- Does not smudge or fade
- Comes in 14 stunning shades
- Waterproof
- Suitable for sensitive eyes
Cons
- Expensive
- You’ll have to purchase the brush separately
- Slightly difficult to remove
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner Review
The Bobbi Brown Long-wear Gel Eyeliner in ‘Black Ink’ is a cult favorite! It’s creamy, incredibly pigmented and so easy to apply. You can create any look with this eyeliner with much precision and perfection, be it a smokey eye or a subtle daytime look. It comes in a glass pot with a screw cap with 3 grams of product, and you need the smallest amount for application. This pot would last you for a good five months. It does not smudge, or streak, and stays put all day long until you remove it with an oil-based makeup remover. There’s nothing more we could ask for!
2. Best Waterproof Formula:Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel
Makeup artists are always looking for items that provide a significant visual effect in a short amount of time. This highly pigmented Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel is the key to flawless, long-lasting eye makeup. Reviewers on online forums have mentioned that this extreme-wear liner offers complete coverage with only one coat. It delivers a smudge-proof, bright color that lasts longer.eviewers on online forums have mentioned that the extreme-wear liner offers maximum coverage with only one coat. It delivers a smudge-proof, bright color that lasts longer.
Pros
- Long-wearing
- Highly pigmented
- Smooth and easy application
- Long-lasting
- Smudge-proof
- Waterproof
Cons
- The product may dry out if you don’t close it properly
Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel Review
The high-impact pigments in Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel provide maximum coverage and rich colors with a single stroke. It is extremely pigmented and distributes evenly, making it easy to apply. The velvety, beautiful, long-lasting texture is extremely durable and smear-resistant. It delivers a crease-proof finish, making it great for everyday makeup, date nights, and party looks.
3. Best Long-Wearing Formula:MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline
Ultra-smooth, Fluidline’s gel formula provides the precision of a liquid liner with a silkier, softer matte finish. This matte gel eyeliner from the celebrity-endorsed luxury brand, MAC goes on foolproof with an angled brush in an easy dip-and-stroke action. Long-wearing for up to 16 hours and smudge-proof. Lines up in a rich array of colors and finishes. Available in 14 shades.
- Long-wearing
- Highly pigmented
- Very creamy consistency
- Smooth and easy application
- Smudge-proof and waterproof
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Dermatologist tested
- No applicator provided
- You need to seal the cap tightly after each use, or there is a risk of the product in the pot drying out
MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline Review
This gel eyeliner by MAC is a winner for those of you with oily eyelids. Its impressive staying power will make this your go-to eyeliner. It’s extremely pigmented and glides on smoothly, making application so forgiving and easy, unlike a liquid liner! Make sure you use an angled or slanted brush for precision. There are 14 stunning shades to choose from, and at $17, this one’s a steal deal!
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner Best Highly Pigmented Formula | Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel Best Waterproof Formula | MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline Best Long-Wearing Formula | |
---|---|---|---|
Color | 01 Black | 77 | - |
Dimensions | 9.45 x 6.14 x 1.97 inches | 1.54 x 0.91 x 1.54 inches | - |
Weight | 1.06 Ounces | 0.19 Ounces | - |
Number of Items | - | - | 1 |
Rating | |||
Reviews | 167 | 1,108 | 56 |
Price | $24.85 | $12.45 | $25.05 |
4. Best Ophthalmologist-Tested Formula:Julep When Pencil Met Gel Long-Lasting Waterproof Eyeliner
It is an eye pencil with the formula of a gel eyeliner. Made with extra-finely milled pigments, this waterproof formula provides an intense color payoff. The creamy formula glides effortlessly without any tugging or pulling. The intense pigment in the formula is clinically proven to last 10+ hours. Ethically conscious consumers are obsessed with this liner as it is not tested on innocent animals.
Pros
- Long lasting
- Waterproof
- Highly pigmented
- Intense color payoff
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- SLS-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Ophthalmologist-tested
Cons
- Might be difficult to apply after sharpening
"This eyeliner applies very easily on the eyelids and offers a good color pay-off. It stays put throughout the day to enhance the eye look. I love how the formula is completely smudge-free."
Julep When Pencil Met Gel Long-Lasting Waterproof Eyeliner Review
This pencil-like eyeliner comes in a sturdy eye pencil packaging that allows you to draw thin, precise, or bold strokes. The creamy formula goes on the skin smoothly and provides long-lasting vibrant pigmentation without smudging around or pulling. The waterproof formula provides a beautiful shine. It is available in various matte and shimmer shades to match all your moods. The sleek structure of the eyeliner fits your bags easily.
5. Best For Everyday Wear:UCANBE 2 in 1 Black and Brown Gel Eyeliner
The UCANBE 2-in-1 Black and Brown Gel is an incredible gel eyeliner kit that comes in two classic shades, black and brown. This gel is waterproof, long-lasting, and smudge-proof and can be removed using makeup remover. It is simple to use and comes with two small makeup brushes. According to several online reviews, these brushes help design and create your desired look without any mess.
Pros
- Highly pigmented
- Glides smoothly and easily
- Creates lines with precision
- Long-wearing
- Waterproof
- Smudge-proof
- Value for money
- Ease of application
Cons
- None
"This gel eyeliner has a rich pigment. It applies smoothly and gives me precise lines. I like how it glides without irritating my eyelids. It is smudge-proof and stays for a long time."
UCANBE 2 in-1 Black and Brown Gel Eyeliner Review
The creamy gel’s light and flexible texture provides a long-lasting waterproof, non-blooming finish. It is made of a thin formula that enables easy application and a waterproof composition that is not readily destroyed. It has a deep color and glides on gently, allowing you to get it perfect before it dries. It is simple to apply and a must-have eyeliner and eyebrow combo for various events, including party makeup, casual makeup, and wedding makeup.
6. Best Smudge-Proof Formula:Wet N Wild Breakup Proof Retractable Gel Waterproof Eyeliner
The Wet N Wild Breakup Proof Retractable Gel Waterproof Eyeliner has a silky texture that glides on the eyelids without hurting your eyes. It has a highly pigmented, waterproof formula that stays for long periods. This gel eyeliner features retractable pencil packaging that makes it easy to draw wing eyeliner even if you’re a beginner.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Long wear
- Smudge-proof
- Fade-proof
- Paraben-free
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Affordable
- Easy application
Cons
- Slightly difficult to remove
"This grey gel liner has decent pigmentation. I like it because it can help achieve both crispy lines and a smokey-eye look. The best part is that it is easy to apply and stays for a long time."
Wet N Wild Breakup Proof Retractable Gel Waterproof Eyeliner Review
This Wet N Wild liner is the ideal pick for those looking for affordable and effective eyeliner for daily use. It has a wear time of up to 16 hours and is very silky, smooth, and pigmented. It has a retractable tip for easy application on busy days. This gel eyeliner, which has pigments in vivid colors, can assist you in achieving dramatic as well as simple looks.
7. Best Value For Money: Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner
This waterproof eyeliner has a long-lasting gel formula that achieves dramatic eye looks. Achieve winged drama with this smudge-free formula that sets instantly and glides on easily to deliver intense color for up to 24 hours. This drugstore eyeliner is available in 4 shades.
Pros
- Long-wearing
- Intensely pigmented
- Smudge-proof and waterproof
- Glides like velvet
- Comes with a brush
- Value for money
Cons
- The cap needs to be closed tightly after application, or else the formula will dry out.
- Tested on animals
Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner Review
This gel liner comes in a jar with a very professional eyeliner brush, which works with precision and ease. The bristles of the precision brush are soft and make the formula glide smoothly. The color is highly pigmented and has a creamy texture that does not irritate the eyes. It stays on all day without smudging or smearing. This is a great option to create any kind of look – from a cat-eye to a wing – with much ease. For $9, this one’s super reasonable and efficient for a gel liner.
8. Best Fade-Resistant Option: Anastasia Beverly Hills Darkside Waterproof Gel Liner
Ultra-pigmented gel-cream pencil with a slim, retractable tip. The waterproof formula is long-wearing and provides intense, liquid-like results.
- Long wearing
- Glides on smoothly
- Very pigmented
- Doesn’t fade or run
- Smudge-proof and waterproof
- Available in one shade
- Feels a little heavy
- Pricey
Anastasia Beverly Hills Darkside Waterproof Gel Liner Review
This one’s popular among YouTube beauty vloggers. The Anastasia Beverly Hills Darkside Waterproof Gel Liner comes in retractable pencil packaging, which is classy and convenient. It goes on smoothly and provides a bold color payoff. The staying power is impressive, and it lasts all day long without fading, smudging, or moving. This one’s great even for hot summer days as its formula is very durable.
9. Best Cruelty-Free Option: Hourglass 1.5 MM Mechanical Gel Eyeliner
The unique formula poured into a slim mechanical component has the malleability, intensity, and staying power of a traditional gel eyeliner. No pot, no brush, no clean-up required. The waterproof, transfer-proof, and long-lasting formula delivers extended wear. The precision 1.5 MM tip ensures effortless control and allows for tightlining in between lashes. It is available in 3 shades.
- Applies with precision
- Pigmented
- Long-wearing
- Waterproof and smudge-proof
- Perfect for tightening
- Formulated without harmful ingredients
- Not tested on animals
- Pricey
- Limited shades
- Less amount of product for the price
- Non-retractable pencil
Hourglass 1.5 MM Mechanical Gel Eyeliner Review
This gel eyeliner by Hourglass comes in a mechanical pencil packaging that does not retract. Only dispense the product as needed and replace the cap after use to prevent drying. Its skinny 1.5 MM twist-up tip allows for utmost precision. If you are looking for eyeliner for all-day wear, this one is a holy grail for you. The formula is incredibly pigmented, and it does not wear off all day until you make an effort to get it off with a makeup remover!
10. Best In Budget-Friendly: MUA Professional Intense Color Gel Eyeliner
Use this expert-tested shade for eye definition that lasts. The vibrant, intense color payoff is delivered in a velvety-soft glide-on formula that sets to prevent smudging and smearing. Many online reviews have suggested sharpening the product with an MUA Double-Ended Sharpener for the best results. It comes in 6 shades.
- Attractive packaging and comes with a sharpener
- Pigmented
- The soft texture makes for easy application
- Produces well-defined and precise lines
- Long-wearing
- Budget-friendly
- Does not smudge or bleed until you rub your eyes
- Contains parabens
- Its cap does not close tightly
- Its tip breaks easily due to its creamy texture
MUA Professional Intense Color Gel Eyeliner Review
This eyeliner pencil by Makeup Academy comes in a regular pencil packaging with a cap that includes an in-built sharpener, making it convenient and handy. It’s very soft and creamy in texture, and one swipe delivers a decent color payoff, making the application really simple. It does not sting or irritate the eyes and is also waterproof. The longevity of this liner is a good 5-6 hours on the upper lash line, and eventually, it fades evenly. You need to sharpen each time you go in with this liner to achieve crisp and precise lines. Overall, if you are on the lookout for the best gel crayon eyeliners, this budget-friendly gel eyeliner is worth a try.
[ Also Read – Lakme Instaliner Eyeliner Pros and Cons ]
11. Best In Easy To Apply:NYX Cosmetics Gel Eyeliner and Smudger
NYX’s Gel Liner and Smudger deliver a bold color that won’t quit. Whether you’re after a perfectly defined line or a smokey eye, these silky shades are easily blendable and don’t crease or fade. This gel liner is not tested on animals, which makes it ideal for people seeking cruelty-free choices. The pigmented formula is now available in 7 shades.
- Very pigmented
- Glides on smoothly
- Easy to apply
- Long-wearing
- Bold color
- Doesn’t smudge or move
- Hard to remove
- Fades as the day goes on
NYX Cosmetics Gel Eyeliner and Smudger Review
This eyeliner from the celebrity-favorite brand NYX comes in a clear glass pot jar with a black screw on the lid with the NYX logo on it. You need to store this upside down to prevent the product from drying out quickly. The packaging is heavy-duty and looks great. This crease-resistant liner has a smooth texture and feels gel-like. The color payoff is rich and dark, just like in the pot. The wear time is decent too, giving you an average of 8 hours. It’s similar to MAC’s Fluidline eyeliner, but for $9, this is a more economical option.
12. Best Sturdy Formula:L’Oreal Infallible Gel Lacquer Liner
High-shine lacquer finish. Smooth application. It lasts up to 24 hours. A glossy, lacquered eye is now easier than ever to create. Infallible Gel Lacquer Liner from the celebrity-endorsed brand L’Oreal glides on smoothly for a clean, precise line that provides an intense, high-shine finish from dawn to dusk. This highly recommended eyeliner is available in 5 rich, luminous shades that have a glossy finish.
- Great pigmentation
- Creamy gel-like texture which makes it easy to apply
- Long-wearing
- Sturdy and convenient packaging
- Comes with a brush
- Budget-friendly
- Takes a little time for quick-drying
- Slightly smudges on the lower lashline
L’Oreal Infallible Gel Lacquer Liner Review
L’Oreal Infallible Gel Lacquer Liner comes in a thick glass pot with a golden cap. It is accompanied by a thin applicator brush with a cap. It is decent for creating thick or winged lines, but it’s difficult to get a thin line with the brush. It features an exclusive formula that is smooth, creamy, and glides on like butter. It’s incredibly pigmented in one swipe, and you don’t need to worry about building the color by layering it. It takes a little time to dry, but this gives you a window to work with it and correct any mistakes that you made. The staying power is great – it stays on for a good 12-14 hours with a primer underneath. Do give this a shot!
13. Best Lightweight Texture: Revlon Colorstay Creme Gel Eyeliner
Love a soft look for the day or a dramatically bold line for an opulent evening out? Colorstay Creme Gel Eyeliner has you covered. Always giving bold definition and completely smudge-proof, it’s your go-to liner no matter what your look. It is available in two colors.
- Bold and smudge-proof
- Waterproof
- Glides smoothly to create delicate to dramatic lines
- Decently pigmented
- Affordable
- A single swipe doesn’t do a great job, so you need to build up the color
- Slightly fades through the day
Revlon Colorstay Creme Gel Eyeliner Review
This gel eyeliner by Revlon comes in really convenient packaging. The brush is placed strategically in the upper half of the cap, which makes it very handy to use. Its texture is soft and creamy and is completely opaque, but swiping twice helps you build the color for a bolder look. This one’s completely user-friendly and is great for beginners because you just can’t go overboard with this product. Give this a shot if you’re new to eyeliners and want to go in for a natural look.
14. Best For Vibrant Look:Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Gel Eyeliner
Draw the line with Scandalous eye-looks! Up to 24 hours of rich, intense color that doesn’t flake, smudge, smear, or run. This jet-black liner is easy to apply and glides smoothly. It comes with a professional brush for complete control to draw the lines you want.
- Long-wearing
- Convenient packaging
- Smudge-proof
- Nonfading color
- Budget-friendly
- Isn’t quite waterproof but it needs a makeup remover to take off
- The applicator brush does not work very efficiently
Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Review
The Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Gel Eyeliner comes in a regular plastic tube packaging accompanied by a brush. Its texture is slightly dry and gritty, and it’s difficult to pick the amount of product required due to this texture. Its pigmentation is medium and can be built up with a minimum of two swipes required to get a full, vibrant look. Its long-staying power makes up for a lot of its cons, and for $5, this one’s a great deal!
15. Best Transfer-Resistant Formula: Ulta Gel Eyeliner Pencil
Ulta’s Gel Eyeliner Pencil is a super creamy, pigmented gel eyeliner pencil that provides effortless, smooth application, and lasting pigmented coverage. Available in 20 shades.
- Easy to apply
- Long-wearing
- Glides on smoothly
- Bold and pigmented color
- Easy removal
- Slightly tends to smudge on hot days
- Evenly fades through the day
Ulta Gel Eyeliner Pencil Review
At $8, this gel eyeliner by Ulta is a great option. It is super creamy, smooth, pigmented, and all you need to make a bold statement. It doesn’t transfer and gives you decent staying power, even in the waterline. Also, you have a variety of shades to choose from, which is a bonus. Give this a try; you won’t be sorry!
(*Product prices may vary)
Flaunting perfectly lined eyes, be it a smokey eye, a subtle wing, or a sassy cat’s-eye, the key to perfecting any eye makeup look is to choose a good quality eyeliner. Gel eyeliner is exceptionally durable and pigmented, giving you jaw dropping results. In order to ace your eyeliner look with the right gel liner, we have curated a list of features to consider before you go ahead and buy one.
How To Choose The Best Gel Eyeliners
1. Ingredients
Always check the product packaging or description to avoid harmful chemicals like DMDM hydantoin, formaldehyde, and parabens, especially if you are a contact lens wearer or have sensitive eyes. Look for smoothening ingredients like carnauba wax which helps the eyeliner glide on easily. Ingredients like vitamin E and oils like jojoba, argan, and grapeseed deeply condition the skin so that it’s well-nourished.
2. Applicator
Gel pot eyeliners usually come with a built-in brush applicator. Choose an applicator that is thick at the bottom and has a pointed end, so you can draw precise lines, as thick or thin as you want. When it comes to gel eye pencils, make sure the tip applicator is made with a sturdy yet bendable felt material, as hard ones can be tough to work with. For a sharpenable pencil, look for a sharpener in the packaging or you might have to purchase one separately. Retractable pencils usually lose their shape so look for pencils that retain their shape over time. Tamara Delbridge, makeup artist, says, “High-quality makeup brushes like the MAC Cosmetics 210 Synthetic Precise Eyeliner Brush will help you achieve clean and precise lines with ease.”
3. Type
There are two main types of gel liners in the market, Gel pot liners and gel eye pencils. Each of them has its own benefits in terms of usability, and results.
- Gel Pot Liners
A Gel pot liner comes in a small container with a brush. It has a creamy texture and gives an intense color payoff and the formula is highly pigmented. You can also use your own set of brushes, to create your desired look if needed. The only drawback of gel pot liners is that they can dry up quickly if you do not seal them properly.
- Pencil Liners
The expertly crafted gel pencil liners are perfect for daily use and are very budget-friendly. They are long-lasting and come with retractable packaging making it perfect for on-the-go application. They are also handy when it comes to creating a sharp and well-defined look.
4. Color
When it comes to the color of the gel liner, solid black and white colors are a must-have in your vanity. Gel eyeliner also comes in a range of colors, from statement-making bright royal tones, mint, and cobalt to glittery and neon colors. A classic black or brown shade is a versatile color for your eye makeup. Choose the right one that matches the natural color of your eyes, or you can take a risk and make a statement with a pop of color. For example, gold, copper, and champagne colors suit blue eyes whereas silver, blue, olive, and teal shades suit brown eyes beautifully.
5. Durability
You must also take into consideration the durability of the gel liner. Some stay for just 6 to 7 hours, but some can last for up to 24 hours. Also, check for additional features like being waterproof, smudge-proof, water-resistant, and fade-proof. You can also check whether the liner has a long-staying power. For mature skin, it’s advisable to use a smudge-resistant eyeliner to enhance the eyes without emphasizing fine lines or wrinkles.
Gel eyeliners may seem intimidating as they are not the usual liquid eyeliner that we’re so accustomed to. But, if you tend to do a lot of cat eyes, these are worth trying as you can quickly get a clean, precise line owing to the thicker formula. Once you’ve mastered the techniques, gel eyeliner is a cakewalk and you do not have to worry about messing up your eyeshadow every time you use it! Besides this, to choose the right eyeliner color for you, you have to factor in things like your eye color, your skin tone, and your age. There are so many eyeliner colors that would work amazingly for your features, so don’t be afraid to try different shades. However, conduct a patch test on your lids before committing to an eyeliner for regular use.
Infographic: Tips To Use A Gel Eyeliner Like A Pro
Whether you are an expert or a beginner, we all sometimes struggle to apply eyeliner evenly and accurately, especially with gel formulas that, if not applied correctly, will end up giving you raccoon eyes. Check out the infographic below for tips on applying gel eyeliner correctly. Scroll down.
The Bottom Line
Eyeliners are a must-have in every girl’s vanity. They can complement any eye shape but precise application of eyeliners is and will always be an ordeal. However, you can ease this pain with the best gel eyeliners mentioned in our list. The Bobbi Brown Long – Wear Gel Eyeliner is a great choice for a flawless and long-lasting eye makeup. If you prefer bold and intense lines, we recommend the Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel. If you are looking for a variety of shades with a soft, smudge-proof finish, try the MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline. They are easy to use and glide smoothly without creating a mess. Investing in smudge-resistant and waterproof gel eyeliners would be of great help as they will not fade away and last longer. In addition, gel eyeliners with high pigmentation help you create an intense, dramatic eye makeup look. However, consider paraben-free gel eyeliners as they do not irritate the skin. And restrain from buying eyeliners that are not comfortable to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gel eyeliner good for?
A gel eyeliner can be used to get bold and precisely defined eye lines in any shape you desire. You can correct mistakes made by gel liners much more easily and quickly. They usually offer mess-free applications.
How long can you use gel eyeliner?
A good gel eyeliner is long-lasting and smudge-proof and last between 12 to 36 hours after application.
How do you maintain gel eyeliner?
Gel eyeliners can dry out quickly. To maintain gel eyeliners and prevent them from drying out, you can use a drop of castor oil to give the formula a good texture and cooling effect.
Are gel eyeliners better than liquid eyeliners?
When it comes to thickness and texture, gel eyeliners are definitely better. They are ideal for beginners who struggle with creating wings and cat eye. They show solid colors instantly without having to layer on.
Is gel eyeliner easy to apply?
Unlike pencil and liquid eyeliners, gel eyeliners are easy to apply and won’t slide off easily. They are foolproof and do not smudge easily.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Esha Saxena, who penned this article, has a vast knowledge of makeup. She recommends these gel eyeliners after going through many product reviews. These products are selected based on their pigmentation, lasting ability, ease of application, precision, and many more. You can get the perfect eye line without any fuss or mess with these eyeliners.
Read full bio of Tamara Delbridge
Read full bio of Krati Darak
Read full bio of Shatabdi Bhattacharya