15 Best Kohl Eyeliners, According To A Makeup Artist – 2025
Let your eyes do all the talking with these long-lasting, alluring eye makeup products.
Cha Cha is a certified professional makeup artist, airbrush makeup artist, and beauty educator with over 20 years in the beauty industry. She is also the owner of Cha Cha Beauty Bar and has done extensive work in the bridal and special event categories.
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Experience: 2 yearsSrijita 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.
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Experience: 3 yearsRajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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Experience: 3 yearsSrijani 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.
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If you have been looking for the best kohl eyeliners to create the best winged liner effects, we have something you can’t resist. Honestly, life is too short to be happy with dull eyes. We need the perfect makeup to make them look bold yet elegant. Eye makeup plays a huge role in transforming your looks completely. No matter how simple your hair and lips are, a simple pull of liner on your eyes can make all the difference. Something about kohl eyeliners gives you just the right amount of smudge needed to make your eyes look beautiful. So are you ready to sweep kohl on your eyelids and make them look gorgeous in an instant? Here is a list of 15 kohl eyeliners that make sure each time you apply eye makeup, you get a smooth, flawless look that makes heads turn!
In This Article
15 Best Kohl Eyeliners For Stunning Smokey Eyes!
1. Best Smudge-Proof:Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Liner – Black
Eyeliner, but make it scandalous! Coat your eyes with the highly intense formula of the statement-making Rimmel Kohl Kajal Liner that claims to last for 24 hours. Waterproof, so it can stand sweat, tears, and rain, watch a single run of the eyeliner transform your eyes and make them pop instantly. A must-try for those who like a dose of drama and mystery with their evening and party looks, you can give it a miss if being in the spotlight is not your cup of tea. This video will take you through a tester’s experience with the product. Watch it before making a purchasing decision.
Pros
- Ophthalmologist-tested
- Intense impact pigment
- Formulated with kohl britannia
- Ultra-creamy and smooth texture
- Sweat-proof, smudge-proof, and humidity-proof
- Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
Cons
- Fragile tip
- Sharpening would be a hassle
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 24,491 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
2. Best Waterproof:Annabelle Waterline Matte Kohl Eyeliner – Blackest Black
Not the Annabelle that’ll spook, but the one that’ll make you the star of the party! Watch your eyes look bigger, sharper, and more defined with a coat of Annabelle’s creamy gel formula. And given it is the blackest black color, prep up for some high intensity with every use. Reviewers on online forums have suggested running it on the waterline to enjoy its matte effect on the eyes and lashes. Promising to illuminate your gaze and give you a fresh and confident look, this gel eyeliner by Annabelle is worth a try.
Pros
- Has a smooth finish
- Delivers bold and defined lines
- Glides smoothly on the waterline
- Ensures fuller lashes and enhanced look
- Waterproof, smudge-proof, and non-flaking
Cons
- Not recommended for sensitive eyes
- It may require touchups.
3. Best Highly Pigmented:COVERGIRL Exhibitionist 24-Hour Kohl Eyeliner – Black
Are you obsessed with cat-eye, winged-, or smoky-eye makeup? Well, so is this kohl eyeliner by Covergirl! A great option to give your eyes an enviable definition, make a statement every time you blink with this glam formula on your eyes. A versatile stick for those who are obsessed with eye makeup, there’s no look that this ultra-creamy stick cannot handle! Whether you need a subtle and refreshed look during the day or want to go all-out and dramatic for the evening look, this eyeliner ensures a smooth glide only. For a more detailed review of this product, here’s a video that details a reviewer’s experience with it.
Pros
- Cruelty-free product
- Richly pigmented formula
- Long-lasting and waterproof
- Transfer-proof and smudge-free
- Smooth and glide-on application
- Easy-to-sharpen and easy-to-remove
Cons
- It may flake.
"I am in love with the color options of this eyeliner. What I like best is that the eyeliner stays on all day without smudging. It is gentle even on sensitive eyes and it glides smoothly during application."
| Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Liner - Black Best Smudge-Proof | Annabelle Waterline Matte Kohl Eyeliner - Blackest Black Best Waterproof | COVERGIRL Exhibitionist 24-Hour Kohl Eyeliner - Black Best Highly Pigmented | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Black | Blackest Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 5.47 x 0.31 x 0.31 inches | 0.31 x 0.31 x 5.31 inches | 1.88 x 0.42 x 5.63 inches |
| Weight | 0.32 Ounces | 0.04 Ounces | 0.35 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 24,491 | 2,758 | 353 |
| Price | $3.99 | $9.95 | $7.94 |
4. Best Long-Lasting:Neutrogena Smokey Kohl Eyeliner – Dark Brown
Not a fan of black eyeliners? Try this dark brown by Neutrogena for a natural look with a blending brush! Ideal to wear on no-makeup days or to create intense smokey eyes, this eyeliner will make a great addition to your daily makeup routine. Also, the formula contains vitamin E that’ll condition and moisturize the eyes with every use. Promising an instant and rich pigment in one swipe, the coat is smudgeable within the first 30 seconds of applying to get that desired smokey look! Still, want to skip it?
Pros
- Soft, creamy, and smooth texture
- Glides effortlessly on the waterline or eyelids
- Delivers a smoldering effect on the eyes
- Long-lasting, non-irritating, and water-resistant
- Fade-proof and smudge-proof (after 30 seconds)
Cons
- Not ideal to make a thin line
"This khol eyeliner is very easy to apply and the self-sharpening feature is a huge relief. The eyeliner is smudge-free and the color palette is also quite impressive."
5. Best For Smokey Eye:Lancome Le Crayon Eyeliner Pencil – Black Ebony
The only kind of darkness you need in your life! With this eyeliner, you can not only enhance and define the shape of your eyes but contour and color too. A perfect tool for eye makeup-obsessed junkies, it lets your eyes flaunt a new trend daily, especially focused on your upper lashes. Make cat eyes if you like or add some drama or smokiness as per the occasion; this eyeliner will not disappoint. It is easy to use and you can switch between thin and thick line options easily! There’s no reason why you should miss out on this black ebony.
Pros
- Creamy texture
- Glides on smoothly and effortlessly
- Blendable formulas
- Smudges easily for a smokey look
- Perfect kohl for all eye shapes
- Suitable to create smoldering and soft effects.
Cons
- Expensive
- It may not last long.
"This eyeliner is quite easy to apply. If you are a beginner or d o not have steady hands, this will be a revelation in your makeup game. You can create sharp lines with it. You can also smudge it if you want to get the look. The shade is highly pigmented."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Almost 498 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
6. Best Non-Flaky:Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl Liner – Raven
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That annoying moment when your eyeliner pencil won’t sharpen accurately! You either end up wasting time or worse, the pencil lead— bummer. Hence, you need this eyeliner by Smashbox in your collection because it sharpens on its own. No, seriously, you close the cap, twist it, and with the sound of a click, you know it is sharp and ready to use. As for its role as eyeliner, prepare your eyes for a luxurious glide that is waterproof and will last all day long! A must-try for workaholics, would you still miss it? Know more about this product in this video.
Pros
- Highly-pigmented formula
- Blends easily to create various makeup looks
- Non-flaky and glides smoothly
- Easy to apply and remove
Cons
- Expensive
- Fragile tip
7. Best Hypoallergenic:Marcelle Forever Sharp Eyeliner – Spruce Green
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Here’s another eyeliner that’ll self-sharpen automatically to offer sharp lines. But what makes this one different from others is that it is dermatologist and ophthalmologist-tested. So, if you wear contact lenses or have sensitive eyes, Marcelle Forever Sharp Eyeliner will be ideal for you. Quit missing out on the eyeliner in fear of irritation or allergic reactions now. Grab this spruce green eyeliner for a pop of color on your eyes. It’ll amp up the glam quotient for your eyes instantly.
Pros
- Delivers high coverage and intensity
- Adds definition and enhances the shape
- Ready-to-use with built-in sharpener
- Long-lasting and waterproof
- Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
Cons
- Expensive
"This eyeliner is very easy to use. It has a built-in sharper so you can make a perfect winged eyeliner. With a bit of practice, you can draw neat, thin lines or bold patters to customize your looks. It doesn’t irritate your eyes even if you have sensitive skin."
8. Best Gentle:Lord & Berry Eyeliner Pencil – Black
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Do you prefer a traditional kohl pencil? Lord & Berry has a classic option with modern ease and smoothness for you. Quick and easy to apply, the pigment in this type of eyeliner is so deep and intense that in one sweep, your tired eyes will look refreshed instantly. Plus, the formula contains enriching vegetable oils, thus making them ideal for sensitive eyes too. So, whether you wish to go subtle or for an exotic and sultry look, this kohl pencil promises to be your glam stick always.
Pros
- Delivers a semi-matte finish
- Smudgeable to get a smokey look
- Enhances the color of the iris
- Gentle and ophthalmologist-tested
- Safe to use on the inner rim of the eyes
Cons
- Expensive
- It may smear and is not waterproof.
"This eyeliner has a very creamy finish. It glides perfectly without pulling the skin. It doesn’t irritate sensitive skin even when I wear it all day. It smudges a bit, but overall it’s a great eyeliner."
Pro Tip9. Best Sweat-Proof:Estee Lauder Double Wear Eyeliner – Kohl Noir
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Don’t mind a luxurious liner for your eyes? Try Estee Lauder Double Wear Eyeliner. The queen of all eyeliners, this black-lacquered stick screams premium with its ultra-rich formula. Sweep it on and watch your eyes turn into scene-stealers instantly. An ideal weapon for those who believe in the power of eye makeup to make a show-stopping entry, transform your eyes anywhere, anytime with this luxurious stick by Estee Lauder.
Pros
- Lasts for up to 24 hours
- Stays true to color and intense
- Ultra-creamy and glides effortlessly
- Includes built-in sharpener and smudge tip
- Water-resistant, smudge-free, heat-free, and humidity-free
Cons
- Pricey
- Fragile tip
"This eyeliner glides super smoothly and draws neat lines. You can apply it on the go and it will frame your eyes perfectly. It stays on all day, barely needing touchups or smearing. The gentleness of the formula is a blessing for those with sensitive eyes."
10. Best Cruelty-Free:Jillian Dempsey Natural Kôhl Eyeliner
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Craving for jealous stares? Here’s an eyeliner that’ll make you, your friends, and frenemies fall in love with your eyes! Created by celebrity makeup artist Jillian Dempsey, this luxurious eyeliner is worth flaunting in your makeup kit and on your eyes. And since it contains natural ingredients such as jojoba oil, marula oil, and shea butter, it is no less than an indulgence for your waterline too. And are you obsessed with smokey eye makeup looks? Then consider this as a jackpot as it comes with a built-in smudge tip for all your party evenings. Give it a glide this season!
Pros
- Clean formula
- Cruelty-free product
- Delivers a soft and smoldering effect
- Provides intense and luxurious color payoff
- Waterproof and long-lasting
- Easy and quick to blend
Cons
- Expensive
- Sharpening might be a hassle
"This eyeliner has earned it's place in my makeup arsenal! It is easy to apply, even for beginners. The color range is very impressive too. It blends well to create a smudgy look. I highly recommend this."
11. Best Mess-Free:SUGAR Stroke Of Genius Heavy-Duty Kohl Eyeliner – Peacock Green
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Staying true to its color, here’s an eyeliner that’ll make your eyes look every bit majestic! Ideal to use daily or with evening looks, it guarantees an intense color payoff in a single stroke. Yep, no more darkening or need for re-applying for this heavy-duty kohl eyeliner will have your eyes photo-ready instantly. Reviews have indicated that this kohl stick by Sugar Cosmetics is a great option for those who are looking for hassle-free and mess-free eyeliner with a fun color.
Pros
- Glides effortlessly on the eyelids
- Enhances and defines the eyes flawlessly
- Ultra-creamy and wax-based formula
- Long-lasting up to 8 hours
- Waterproof and spreads evenly
- Maximum color payoff
- Free sharpener included with the eyeliner
Cons
- Expensive
"I really like how smooth and dark this khol is. It glides very smoothly on my eye line and it doesn’t smudge for a long time. The color goes perfectly with a wide range of looks. It’s a staple in my purse now."
12. Best Smooth Texture:Milani Supreme Kohl Kajal Eyeliner – Blackest Black
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If eyes could kill, it would be with this eyeliner. Claiming to be the blackest black, call it cliché all you want, but when it comes to defining and making a head-turning entry, this intense black color will be your secret weapon. Also, Milani Supreme Kohl Kajal Eyeliner is made for the spotlights. Wear it sensual, smokey, or subtle, it ensures high impact and intensity only. So, if you want your eyes on fleek for all your party looks, you might as well give this eyeliner by Milani a try.
Pros
- Smooth and creamy texture
- Easy-to-apply and long-lasting
- Waterproof and easy-to-blend
- Safe to use on the waterline and eyelids
Cons
- May not be easy to remove
"This eyeliner is super gentle. You can glide it over your waterline and you will feel no irritation. It is perfect for everyday wear. It smudges a bit so it works more if you are into a smudged eye makeup look."
13. Best For Daily Wear:MAC Eye Kohl Eyeliner – Intense Bronze
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Break free from the blacks and browns this season with this intense bronze hue by the celebrity-favorite brand MAC. A great choice for those who are looking for a subtle color for daily wear or no-makeup days, this stunning bronze will not disappoint. Wear it to work and amplify it later, for the night look, the stick ensures a glam touch instantly. Easy to use and apply, it glides on like a dream on the eyelids, thus making the whole experience fun for you and flawless for your eyes.
Pros
- Goes on smoothly
- Does not clog or shed
- Waterproof and enhances the eyes
- Ideal for subtle makeup looks and daily wear
Cons
- Light pigment
- May require touchups
14. Best For Subtle Look:Laura Geller New York Kajal Longwear Eyeliner – Antique Bronze
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On days when black looks boring, you can switch to this antique bronze for an instant glow-up! We mean, who needs a spotlight when you can have your own with this sparkling delight? One sweep over your eyes and you can let go of the rest of the eye makeup, as the coat is that impactful and stunning. Wear it alone or mix-match, it guarantees to make your eyes grab all the attention wherever you go! Not a fan of shimmer eyeliner? Well, give this one a try, and you might rethink your favorites again.
Pros
- Soft and smooth kohl formula
- Lasts long and richly-pigmented
- Enhances and defines the eyes effortlessly
- Included sharpener ensures the tip is always ready-to-use
- Ideal to create subtle to smokey eye makeup looks
Cons
- Pricey
"This eyeliner is exceptionally long-lasting. I love that it is so easy to glide on the eye line, and it stays on all day. It doesn’t irritate the eyes and even strenuous activities don’t make it wear away. I love the color. It is also easy to remove with a makeup remover."
15. Best Gel Formula:e.l.f. Cosmetics Kohl Eyeliner
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Lastly, this drugstore eyeliner from the celebrity-endorsed brand e.l.f will make all your dramatic and smoky eyes dreams come true. Being one of the most versatile eyeliners with a built-in smudger and a sharpener on the cap, this pencil is nothing but affordable luxury. And that’s not all; the formula has conditioning properties too! With jojoba, coconut oil, mango, cocoa butter, sandalwood oil, and shea butter all packed in together, consider your waterline pampered and nourished with every use. Yep, an eyeliner with salving qualities, try it to witness the difference.
Pros
- Easy-glide and gel formula
- Provides amazing smoky eye effect
- Blends and builds quickly
- Soft texture and long-lasting
- Defines and shades flawlessly
- Vegan and cruelty-free product
Cons
- It may smudge.
- The tip is fragile and may break if you’re not gentle with it.
Buying Guide:
What Are The Things To Consider When Choosing An Eyeliner?
Choosing an eyeliner is no rocket science because there are endless options on the market, but there are some basic things you must keep in mind before settling for the right eyeliner:
Eye-friendly: The waterline and eyelids are the most sensitive areas on your face, so naturally, you do not want to expose it to an irritating formula. Also, if you have sensitive eyes, you must opt for a dermatologist or ophthalmologist-tested eyeliner only to prevent an allergic reaction or redness.
Ease To Apply: The formula should be easy to apply without the need for pulling, tugging, or reapplying, even on oily eyelids. It should go on smoothly and should be easy to blend as well to get that perfect smokey eye look. Hence, the best thing would be to opt for a creamy texture or formula.
Ease To Use: When it comes to eyeliner, sharpening the tip or pencil can be a task. Many users end up wasting the pencil lead to get that accurate tip for precise application. So, to save time and quantity, pick an eyeliner that is a popular choice to provide easy and quick usability.
Long-lasting: Choose an expertly crafted formula that’ll last long, so you don’t have to worry about re-touches during the day. Also, a fading eyeliner is not a good sight.
Waterproof: Unless you are a fan of raccoon eyes, waterproof eyeliner is a must to stand the heat, rain, sweat, humidity, etc. Also, some people tend to tear up while sneezing or yawning, and if you are one of those, then a waterproof eyeliner is a must for you.
Benefits of A Kohl Eyeliner:
There are several benefits and uses of a statement-making black-lacquered glam stick:
- It defines the shape of the eyes, making them appear bigger and sharper.
- Instantly makes tired eyes look refreshed and alive.
- From cat eyes to smokey eyes, you can create multiple celebrity-inspired looks with kohl eyeliner.
- Colored eyeliners enhance the color of the iris and make them appear more prominent.
- An enriching formula can act as a protective coat for the waterline, shielding it from pollution damage too.
How Do I Wear A Kohl Eyeliner?
It is simple. All you have to do is glide it over your eyelids, be it the upper eyelid or lower eyelid. You can also glide it across your waterline gently. You can reapply if you need a darker and more intense look.
That’s all folks; choosing the best kohl eyeliner should now be a breeze!
Doll up your eyes, the kohl way this 2025! Whether you like the cliché black eyeliner or want to break free and try a new color, our list of 15 best kohl eyeliners has options for one and all. Wear it smokey or feline if you like, and let your eyes be the talk of the town in one sweet glide! Go, pick the best kohl eyeliner now, and make the world notice your gorgeous eyes this season.
Infographic: What To Remember While Shopping For Kohl Eyeliners
Kohl eyeliners can easily help you create dramatic eye makeup. You need to select a shade that goes with your skin tone and enhances eye color and a product that is created with ingredients like almond or coconut oil. For all-day wear, take the formula’s consistency into account and choose a smudge-proof option. Check out the below infographic for more such tips.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
If you want to create beautiful smokey eyes, Kohl eyeliners that offer fade-resistant wear are the way to go! The Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Liner – Black is a great option for sensitive eyes, while the Annabelle Waterline Matte Kohl Eyeliner – Blackest Black is a good transfer-proof option. But if you are looking for an ultra-blendable formula, add the Lancome Le Crayon Eyeliner Pencil – Black Ebony to your enhanced beauty routine. These eyeliners can help you achieve the best smokey eyes and offer the right amount of smudge needed for your eyes to look fabulous. Kohl eyeliners are best for smooth makeup looks that can make your eyes pop and steal the show! If you want to give your outfit some dramatic appeal, kohl eyeliners can work wonders. However, it is better to steer clear of kohl eyeliners that aren’t waterproof or smudge-proof. You can also conduct a patch test on your eyes before using a kohl eyeliner on a regular basis. This will help you steer clear of allergic reactions or side-effects, especially if you have sensitive eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best kohl eyeliner?
Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Liner, Annabelle Waterline Matte Kohl Eyeliner, and Marcelle Forever Sharp Eyeliner are some of the best kohl eyeliners.
What’s the difference between kohl and regular eyeliner?
Regular eyeliners deliver a tight and precise line and may not be intense. Kohl eyeliners, on the other hand, are creamier, easy-to-smudge, and provide a more natural and intense look.
Does kohl eyeliner smudge?
Yes, in fact, kohl eyeliners are mostly preferred to get the smudged or smokey look. However, they are smudgeable only for a few seconds after applying.
Does kohl eyeliner contain lead?
No. The kohl eyeliners mentioned above do not contain lead and are safe to use on the waterline and eyelids. However, to be on the safer side, it is advisable to check the ingredients before buying products outside our list.
Can you use kohl eyeliner on your eyebrows?
Ideally, you should not because kohl eyeliners are highly impactful and intense and may make the eyebrows appear cartoonish or too dark.
Is kohl eyeliner safe?
Absolutely! Most of the kohl eyeliners are made of enriching ingredients, and some of them are even ophthalmologist-tested for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Does kohl eyeliner actually protect you from the sun’s rays?
Galena, a black and shiny pigment found in kohl, protects the eyes against UV radiation by shielding them from glare and reflection from the sun.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Srijita De is a makeup enthusiast and loves experimenting with eye makeup products. This list of the best kohl eyeliners has been curated after thorough research. She has gone through several reviews and user feedback to shortlist the products. These eyeliners are long-lasting and help frame the eyes. All the products in the list are highly pigmented and smudge in the right way to give the perfect eye look.
Read full bio of Cha Cha Woska
Read full bio of Srijita De
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Read full bio of Srijani Roy Chowdhury
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