18 Best Kajals And Kohl Pencils In India

Redefining and accentuating your graceful eyes has never been easier.

Written by Esha Saxena, MA (Mass Communication & Media Studies) Esha Saxena MA (Mass Communication & Media Studies) linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Last Updated on

Kajal instantly enhances a woman’s beauty. We girls have been in a committed relationship with it ever since we first used it and we’re never breaking off this sacred bond. Does its magical sweep transform your eyes? YES! And isn’t your kajal the most versatile makeup element that can be used for so many different looks – be it simple, smokey or just a dramatic, bold look? Of course, it is!

We bet you are loyal to your favorites, but there are so many new kinds of kajals and liners out there in the market at this moment – it’s become rather difficult to keep track of them. We’ve listed the best kajals and kohl pencils available in India so you can be updated on what’s latest!

Top PicksCheck Price
L’Oreal Paris Kajal MagiquePrice On Amazon
Elle 18 Eye Drama Bold Black
Price On Amazon
Plum Natur Studio All-Day-Wear Kohl KajalPrice On Amazon
Lakme Eyeconic KajalPrice On Amazon
Maybelline New York Colossal Kajal Super BlackPrice On Amazon
Lotus Makeup Natural Herbals
Price On Amazon
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Eye PencilPrice On Amazon
Inglot Kohl PencilPrice On Amazon
Faces Ultimate Pro Intense Gel KajalPrice On Amazon
Sugar Twist and Shout Fadeproof KajalPrice On Amazon

18 Best Kajals And Kohl Pencils in India

1. L’Oreal Paris Kajal Magique

The L’Oreal Paris Kajal Magique is infused with the goodness of vitamin E, cocoa butter, and olive oil esters. The mineral pigments deliver a deep black color in a single stroke, and it glides like butter. Adds a bold and instant definition to your eyes. Also available in another variant called ‘Bold’.

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Pros
  • Waterproof and smudge proof
  • Intensely pigmented black
  • Suitable for contact lens wearers
  • Does not irritate the eyes
  • Easily available and affordable

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Cons
  • It does not stand up to its ‘12 hour stay’ claim

L’Oreal Paris Kajal Magique Review

This kajal by L’Oreal comes in two variants. This comes in a retractable pencil packaging and it will last you for at least a month or more depending on usage. The pigmentation is great, but if you want to achieve a more intense and bold look, you will need more than one swipe to get the desired result (you can also opt for its other variant called “Bold”). It’s easy to apply and glides smoothly without the need of tugging or rubbing the product on. The staying power is between 7-8 hours which is satisfactory. I like how the product is comfortable to wear and light-weight. Also, it’s priced so affordably for the quantity provided. It’s a must-try!

For more details, read L’Oreal Paris Kajal Magique Review.

2. Elle 18 Eye Drama Bold Black

Stay trendy with the Elle 18 Eye Drama Bold Black. The twist-up design offers easy application and storage. You can use this kajal as an eyeliner and kohl. Its rich black color makes your eyes look dramatic and glamorous. In addition, the product claims that it stays up to 12 long hours without smudging.

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Pros
  •  Long-lasting
  •  Intense pigmentation
  •  Easy to apply
  •  Travel-friendly
  •  Smudge-proof

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Cons
  •  Not water-proof

Elle 18 Eye Drama Bold Black Review

This ‘blackest of black’ kajal has a smooth texture that makes your eyes more attractive. It stays for 6-7 hours without smudging. It is dermatologically tested and can be applied to your waterline, but does not have a strong water-resistant formula. You can obtain the desired darkness with a single stroke as it is highly pigmented.

3. Plum Natur Studio All-Day-Wear Kohl Kajal

This kajal by Plum is 100% smudge-proof and preservative-free. An ophthalmologically approved kajal pencil with a gel-liner like performance. It’s easy to use and filled with the goodness of ingredients like vitamin E. The vegan product contains natural ingredients like castor oil, rice bran wax and vitamin E.

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Pros
  • Easy to apply as it glides on smoothly
  • Creamy, seamless texture
  • Waterproof and smudge-resistant
  • Preservative-free and 100% vegan
  • Long-staying (10 hours)

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Cons
  • For a bold look, you need more than one stroke

Plum Natur Studio All-Day-Wear Kohl Kajal Review

This kajal by Plum is one of India’s most popular drugstore kajals. It has a very impressive staying power. The kajal is dark and pigmented and the application is simple. No need to tug or struggle – it just glides through. It has an attractive purple packaging and comes in the form of a sharpenable pencil. You will also get a free sharpener along with it. The product does not irritate eyes and is also suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

4. Lakme Eyeconic Kajal

The Lakme Eyeconic Kajal accentuates the beauty of your eyes to give you the most iconic look! Just one stroke of the Eyeconic Kajal enhances your simple look to a more stylish avatar. It beats all your timelines, be it meetings, traveling or just a day out and lasts for up to 10 hours.

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Pros
  • Smudge-proof and waterproof
  • Convenient twist-up packaging
  • Intense matte texture
  • Long-staying power
  • Easy to apply and gives a great finish
  • Dermatologically tested

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Cons
  • You will need more than one stroke for an intense black color payoff
  • It does not last for very long on the waterline

Lakme Eyeconic Kajal Review

This kajal by Lakme comes in different shade variations such as black, intense black, brown, blue and white. The kajal glides smoothly across my eyes without any tugging or pulling while applying. It stays put for long but needs to be re-touched when it comes to the waterline area. You can create a variety of eyeliner looks using this kajal pencil with ease. Overall, it’s a great product at an affordable price.

5. Maybelline New York Colossal Kajal Super Black

The Maybelline New York Colossal Kajal is super black with light absorbing pigments. It delivers two times more blackness for double the intensity. The super lasting formula stays intense for 16 hours.

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Pros
  • Smudge-proof and waterproof
  • Smooth application
  • Ophthalmologically tested
  • Suitable for contact lens wearers and sensitive eyes
  • Very pigmented

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Cons
  • 16-hour claim is not true

Maybelline New York Colossal Kajal Super Black Review

The new Colossal kajal by Maybelline is my new favorite. It has a very soft and smooth texture that glides easily on application (including on the waterline). It doesn’t look patchy or dry because this kajal is enriched with the goodness of oils. It stays on for a good 12 hours and can only be taken off with a makeup remover. In just two strokes, you get the boldest color which instantly adds a beautiful definition to your eyes. In just 300 bucks, you get all the benefits of a high-end kajal pencil and it lasts you for a good two months. I highly recommend this to even those with sensitive eyes as it’s really comfortable to wear.

6. Lotus Makeup Natural Herbals

Enhance your eye makeup with the Lotus Makeup Natural Herbals. This kajal has a creamy texture. You can use this kajal on the waterline or lash line. It includes camphor that keeps your eyes cool, whereas almond oil infused in the kajal promotes lash growth. In addition, this kohl claims to last 24 hours without smudging.

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Pros
  •  Long-lasting
  •  Smudge-proof
  •  Water-proof
  •  Convenient application
  •  Vegan

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Cons
  •  None

Lotus Makeup Natural Herbals Review

This kajal more or less looks similar to lipstick and comes with a pointed tip for smooth application. However, with use, the tip becomes flat and is unable to offer a thin stroke. It provides medium coverage and feels soothing to the eyes. It lasts for 5-6 hours and glides smoothly without any tugging.

7. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Eye Pencil

This specially formulated eye pencil by Bobbi Brown stays put for 12 hours – it’s smudge-proof, waterproof and transfer-resistant. If you want an intense definition, this richly pigmented pencil is just what you need. It includes a sharpener to give you pencil-point precision. Comes in 6 different shades.

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Pros
  • Extremely pigmented
  • One stroke gives a great color payoff
  • Rich and creamy gel-like texture
  • Easy to apply
  • High-quality and long-staying
  • Suitable for sensitive eyes

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Cons
  • Expensive
  • Does not last for 12 hours as per claims

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Eye Pencil Review

This kohl liner by Bobbi Brown is one of the best kajals out there but if you are on a budget, then this will burn a hole in your pockets. However, if you do happen to buy this then there’s nothing like it – it gives you the most dreamy finish! The texture is smooth and creamy and it gives you this beautiful gel-like finish that stays put all day without fading. The shade ‘Jet’ is their deepest black, and ‘Mahogany’ is a deep chocolate brown which is also a very pretty shade. It comes in a pencil form that can be sharpened and it’s very convenient to use. The staying power is great – it lasts for a good 10 hours. Works beautifully even on the waterline. Overall, this is an amazing eye pencil and is a definite must-try!

8. Inglot Kohl Pencil

A highly-pigmented eyeliner formulated to gently define the eyes while leaving a soft, velvety finish. The active ingredients provide a moisturizing effect. Apply on the waterline for an eye-popping effect.

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Pros
  • Smudge-proof and waterproof
  • Transfer-resistant
  • Highly pigmented and buttery finish
  • Blends beautifully and easy to apply
  • Long-staying
  • Paraben-free

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Cons
  • Slightly pricey

Inglot Kohl Pencil Review

Inglot is known for its high-quality products, and this pencil does not fail to impress. Let’s talk about its texture –  it’s got a creamy texture that gives a nice silky finish. The application is easy and quick without having the need to tug or press. The pigmentation is super impressive – it’s the deepest black, and it does not fade away even at the end of the day (it does fade a little on the waterline). Overall, a good product but with the competition, I think there are better and more affordable alternatives to this pencil.

9. Faces Ultimate Pro Intense Gel Kajal

With the Faces Ultimate Pro Intense Gel Kajal, let your eyes do the talking. This kajal gives you a super-creamy application. The intense pigments give you the most defined eyes with lasting coverage.

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Pros
  • Comes with a smudger which helps you create a beautiful smokey eye
  • Highly pigmented
  • Smooth texture that glides easily on application
  • Comes with a sharpener
  • Not tested on animals

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Cons
  • It sometimes smudges at the under-eye area
  • Pricey

Faces Ultimate Pro Intense Gel Kajal Review

This is a super black and richly pigmented kajal which gives an amazing color payoff even in one stroke. I like how it comes with a smudger so you can create a variety of looks using this product. It gives you a smooth gel-like finish that looks great throughout the day. The staying power is impressive, and it stays put for a good 6-7 hours. It’s comfortable to wear and in no way irritates the eyes – shout-out to those of you all with sensitive eyes!

10. Sugar Twist and Shout Fadeproof Kajal

The Sugar Twist and Shout Kajal is a single product with the power of two! This power-packed kajal helps you create the look you desire whether you want to keep it simple or smokey. Twist the easy applicator and rim your eyes with its intense black formula and let your eyes do the talking. This high-performing multi-use product is made in Germany and available in two shades.

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Pros
  • Great packaging
  • Long-lasting and fade proof
  • Cream texture and glides smoothly during application
  • Super pigmented rich black
  • Free of mineral oil, preservatives, and paraffin
  • Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers

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Cons
  • A little expensive
  • Starts fading from the waterline in about 3-4 hours
  • Does not live up to its 10-hour claim

Sugar Twist and Shout Fadeproof Kajal Review

This kajal by Sugar cosmetics comes in an attractive, sleek box with a mosaic design. The shade ‘Black Velvet’ is true to its name and is a deep, pigmented black color. Its creamy consistency makes it easier to apply as the liner just glides through your eyes and you get an amazing color payoff in two swipes. The staying power is great (except if your eyes are too watery, then it starts fading from the waterline within a few hours). It’s a great kajal but nothing very exceptional. There are various drugstore brands that offer their liners for way cheaper. However, if you want to avoid re-touching your kajal, this is a good option!

11. Faces Magnet Eyes Kajal

The Faces Magnet Eyes kajal does not smudge or melt and stays on for a long time. This specially formulated liner pencil helps you achieve a flawless smokey or a simple everyday look!

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Pros
  • Very pigmented
  • Enriched with the goodness of vitamin E
  • Creamy texture and easy to apply
  • Twist up packaging so no hassle of sharpening
  • Waterproof
  • Affordable

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Cons
  • Smudges easily
  • There is no full ingredient list provided

Faces Magnet Eyes Kajal Review

This kajal by the Canadian brand ‘Faces’ comes up in a twist-up red plastic packaging. The pigmentation is jet black, and one swipe gives you an amazing color payoff. It’s a great kajal liner to create a smokey eye as it does not dry quickly so you can work well with the semi-dry product. Once dry, it stays put, and if you have watery eyes, it will only fade a little from the waterline. The staying power is decent – about 6-7 hours.

12. Maybelline New York Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner

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4.3
Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner Image: Maybelline

Get the precision of a liquid liner with this gel-based formula by Maybelline New York. This adds drama with its super-concentrated oil-free gel base. Whether you go for thick, thin, smudged, or smoky, your look will last, from day to night.

Color: 950 BLACKEST BLACK | Product Dimensions: 2.76 x 1.1 x 5.67 inches | Weight: 1.45 Ounces

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Pros
  • Waterproof and smudge-free formula
  • Intensely pigmented
  • Long-wearing
  • Smooth texture that glides on easily
  • Beautiful gel finish
  • Ophthalmologist tested

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Cons
  • You need to have a steady hand to use the brush
  • Can only be removed with a proper eye makeup remover

Maybelline New York Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner Review

This Maybelline eye studio lasting drama gel eyeliner is a winner when it comes to its staying power on the waterline. It actually stays put all day long without having to touch it up. The texture is smooth, and once it sets, it really brightens up your eyes because of its intense black and gel-like finish. It looks very neat indeed. The staying power is great – it stays on for a whole 10 hours. This gel eyeliner can be used even on hot Summer days as it just does not smudge!

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Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 3,787 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.

13. Lotus Herbals Colorkick Kajal

Bring out the ‘rock chick’ in you with the new Lotus Colorkick kajal. It’s an extreme, deep-black pigmented smudge-free formula enriched with the botanical extracts of almond oil. You can create trendy looks every day with this long-stay kajal without worrying about touch-ups.

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Pros
  • Extremely pigmented jet black
  • Creamy texture
  • Good staying power
  • Affordable
  • Does not irritate eyes
  • Paraben-free, vegan product

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Cons
  • It can smudge on oily eyelids
  • Takes some time to set fully

Lotus Herbals Colorkick Kajal Review

Overall, this kajal by Lotus is a total value for money, keeping in mind its staying power which is a good 6-7 hours and its color payoff which is highly-pigmented. It leaves a very pretty satin finish that stays put without much fading or smearing. It’s a great kajal for people with normal to dry eyelids, but if you have oily lids or watery eyes, this will fade away to some extent. I do recommend giving this a try though. It also suits sensitive eyes.

14. Iba All Day Kohl Kajal

The Iba All Day Kohl Kajal is formulated to stay long and offer 24 hours of smudge-proof. You can use this waterproof kajal daily. It is enriched with jojoba oil and is free from harmful chemicals. This kajal is safely formulated to suit even sensitive eyes. The intense black makes your eyes look bold and dynamic.

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Pros
  •  Smudge-proof
  •  Long-lasting
  •  Highly pigmented
  •  Dermatologist-tested
  •  Halal certified
  •  Suitable for contact lens wearers
  •  Vegan
  •  Cruelty-free

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Cons
  • None

Iba All Day Kohl Kajal Review

This kajal offers intense black color, and you can get the dark shade with a single stroke of application. You can also use it as an eyeliner. The soft texture glides smoothly to provide you opaque coverage and lasts for about 5-6 hours. The twist-up design of this pencil helps in convenient application and storage.

15. Colorbar I-Glide Eye Pencil

Glide a stroke of glamour and shine with the Colorbar I-Glide eye pencil. An easy to use pencil which will draw all the attention to your eyes! This waterproof liner feels like a gel-textured eyeliner packed in a sleek retractable pen! Available in 6 different shades.

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Pros
  • Very pigmented
  • Dark strokes in just a single swipe
  • No need for touch-ups
  • Waterproof and smudge-proof
  • Long-staying

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Cons
  • Sharpening leads to wastage of product
  • Takes a while to remove even with makeup remover
  • Slightly pricey

Colorbar I-Glide Eye Pencil Review

This gel eyeliner by Colorbar comes in a variety of 6 shades including their popular blue, brown, green, silver and black. All the shades are extremely pigmented and easy to use. There’s no need to tug or press the liner, one simple stroke leaves an intense color. It is totally smudge-proof and even stays put on oily eyelids. The shade ‘Blackout’ is their classic and deepest black! The staying power is also decent (up to 7-8 hours).

16. Colorbar Just Smokey Eye Pencil

This kajal gets you glam-ready in about 50 seconds. The long-lasting, multi-tasking pencil gives you the 3-in-1 benefits of eyeliner, kajal and eyeshadow! It helps you achieve the perfect smokey eye and make it last for up to 12 hours. It also comes with a built-in smudger. Available in 7 shades.

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Pros
  • Waterproof, smudge-proof and transfer-resistant
  • Pigmented with a rich color payoff
  • Long-staying
  • No need of touch-ups
  • Very comfortable to wear

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Cons
  • Pricey
  • Sharpening leads to wastage of product

Colorbar Just Smokey Eye Pencil Review

This is another great kajal by Colorbar, and it indeed is a multi-purpose pencil. It glides on smoothly on your lashline and waterline without any need of tugging or pulling. The staying power is impressive, and the texture is so creamy and comfortable to wear. It does not look worn out or faded even at the end of the day. The smudger provided with the pencil is of great quality and can be used to create some really cool looks. One stroke actually goes a long way. The only issue is removal which is rather difficult to do.

17. Revlon Eye Liner Pencil

This Revlon wooden pencil gives you a smooth, powdery finish. It’s easy to blend and contour. Adds precise definition to eyes leaving a smooth matte finish!

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Pros
  • Very pigmented
  • Easy to use
  • Does not irritate eyes
  • Waterproof
  • It lives up to its claims

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Cons
  • No ingredient list mentioned
  • Smudges and may transfer after about 4 hours of application

Revlon Eye Liner Pencil Review

This is one of the old school sharpenable pencil kajals by Revlon! It has a soft texture that is easy to apply. You will need a couple of strokes for a good color payoff. The staying power is decent, but it needs to be retouched. If you have oily eyelids or watery eyes, this will slowly fade and it also tends to slightly smudge. However, this is a good kajal that can be used as a base for your smokey eyes look!

18. Himalaya Herbals Kajal

This herbal eye definer cools eyes while adding luster and beauty to your eyes! Enriched with Damask Rose and Triphala, this kajal combines traditional ingredients like almond oil and castor oil to cool and nourish the eyes.

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Pros
  • Contains the goodness of natural ingredients
  • Has anti-aging properties for eyelids
  • Safe for sensitive eyes
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable and easily available
  • Decent pigmentation and doesn’t smudge
  • Not tested on animals

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Cons
  • Low staying-power (2 hours)
  • Not meant for oily eyelids
  • Smudges if you rub

Himalaya Herbals Kajal Review

This is a good option if you want to use something that is enriched with the goodness of natural ingredients known for their beneficial properties like almond oil and castor oil. But if you are going to be running around all day, you will regret using this as its staying power is really low and it also tends to transfer. If you have really sensitive eyes, this will work for you as it does not include any sort of chemicals and is completely safe to use! But as a cosmetic makeup tool, this kajal isn’t something I would recommend.

[ Also Try – Elle 18 Kajal ]

Ladies, whatever your trend-of-style or go-to-look maybe, your eye makeup speaks volumes about your style – so don’t be afraid to experiment and personalize!

*Subject to Availability

Now that you have had a look at some of the best kajal and kohl pencils, let us check some essential points to consider before buying one.

Things To Consider When Buying Kajals Or Kohl Pencils

  • Easy Of Application

Always look for a kajal that has moisturizing properties. The kajal or kohl pencil with creamy or moisturizing texture is easy to apply as it glides smoothly and keeps the eyes hydrated.

  • Waterproof And Smudge-Proof

Invest in a kajal that is water and smudge-proof. Such kajals and kohl pencils stay put all day long without giving you panda eyes!

  • Easy To Remove

An ideal kajal is one that is easy to apply and remove as well. You should not be scrubbing or rubbing your eyes too much to remove your kajal! Therefore, look for a kajal that comes off easily with makeup remover.

  • Safety

Make it a point to invest in a kajal that is clinically tested or ophthalmologist-approved to keep your eyes safe. Always read the labels and ingredients carefully to ensure full safety. A kajal made with herbal or natural ingredients like almond oil or argan oil is safe and keep your eyes healthy.

  • Pigmentation

A kajal or kohl pencil should be highly pigmented to offer a jet black finish in a single stroke. Therefore, follow the label check to get an idea about the finish.

  • Tools

If you are buying a kohl pencil, you will need a sharpener. Check if the pencil comes with a sharpener. In that case, you do not have to buy it separately.

  • User Reviews

If you have sensitive eyes, consider checking user reviews before buying any product. It will give you a better picture of the product, and you will get an idea about what to expect.

That was our list of 18 best kajals and kohl pencils available in India at this moment! Each one of them has got at least one attractive feature attributed to it! We hope this list helped you narrow down your choice of your next kajal purchase. Do you have a favorite? If you do, feel free to let us know in the comments section below!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any cultural or symbolic meanings associated with kajal and kohl?

Yes, kajal and kohl have cultural and symbolic meanings in various traditions, often associated with beauty, protection against the evil eye, and enhancing the eyes’ appearance.

How do kajal and kohl differ in terms of application and texture?

Kajal usually comes in a softer pencil or crayon form, while kohl is a powder or cream applied with a brush or stick.

Are there any specific techniques or tips for applying kajal and kohl?

When applying kajal or kohl, start with a clean, dry lash line, and use short, gentle strokes. Smudge the product for a smoky effect or create precise lines for a defined look.

What are the benefits of using kajal and kohl for eye health?

Kajal and kohl formulations may contain ingredients like almond oil or castor oil, which can have moisturizing properties and potentially benefit eye health by reducing dryness and irritation.

Can you explain the significance of kajal and kohl in enhancing eye makeup looks?

Kajal and kohl enhance eye makeup by defining and accentuating the eyes, giving them a bold and captivating appearance. They can be used to create various looks, from subtle to dramatic, depending on the application technique.

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Esha Saxena
Esha SaxenaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Esha Saxena is a writer and journalist with over 3 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in media and mass communication from St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad, and firmly believes that makeup is nothing less than art.

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