11 Best Selling Oil-Free Eyeliners Of 2023

A dramatic flick at the end of a gorgeous cat eye, these eyeliners can do it all.

Reviewed by Jill Turnbull, Hairstylist
Written by Baishali Bhattacharya, Certified Image Consultant, Certified In Makeup Artistry
Edited by Srijita De, Certified Style & Image Consultant
Fact-checked by Madhumati Chowdhury  • 
All products recommended on StyleCraze are independently selected by our editorial team. If you make a purchase through any of these links, we may receive a commission. Learn more about our product selection process here.

Frequently using eyeliners and false lashes can cause issues to your skin and lashes. To avoid that, switch it out for the best oil-free eyeliner. Oil-free eyeliners are a God-send to all us ladies. Since the oil in the eyeliner can break down the glue in the lashes, oil-free eyeliners are a quick-stop solution to your lash disaster. These eyeliners are smudge-proof and provide you with a wide range of looks from simple to glamorous. Here is a curated list of oil-free eyeliners that can help you achieve your perfect look!

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Quick-Drying:Maybelline New York Lasting Drama Gel Eye LinerPrice on Amazon
Best Pigmented:Kat Von D Tattoo LinerPrice on Amazon
Best Hypoallergenic:Honest Beauty Liquid LinerPrice on Amazon
Best Long-Wearing:Almay Intense i-Color Price on Amazon
Best Flake-Proof:Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl LinerPrice on Amazon
Best Smudge-Proof:Too Faced Better Than Sex Liquid Eyeliner Price on Amazon
Best For Bold Looks:LLBA Liquid EyelinerPrice on Amazon
Best For Easy Application:bareMinerals Lash Domination Ink Liner Price on Amazon
Best Dermatologist-Approved:Vasanti Kajal Extreme Intense Eyeliner Price on Amazon
Best For Sensitive Skin:Beauty Garde Oil-Free Liquid Eyeliner Price on Amazon

11 Bestselling Oil-Free Eyeliners Of 2023

1. Best Quick-Drying:Maybelline New York Lasting Drama Gel Eye Liner

4.3
Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner Image: Maybelline

The Maybelline New York Lasting Drama Gel Eye Liner has a long-lasting, oil-free, and gel-based formula, which is resistant to sebum, tears, sweat, and water. This intense color formula lasts up to 36 hours. It is ophthalmologist-tested, safe to wear with contact lenses, and gentle for daily application. The exclusive liner brush is shaped precisely to give an expert finish and bold pigmentation. The smooth and creamy texture of this gel formula glides along your eyelids with ease and stays intact for long hours. Here’s an honest review of the product.

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

Pros

  • Quick-drying formula
  • Sweat-proof
  • Waterproof
  • Long-lasting
  • Smooth application
  • Easy removal
  • Ophthalmologist-tested

Cons

  • Too thick
Quick Tip: To avoid mishaps, apply a thin line of eyeliner on your lids and make it thicker around the edges. Build on it to achieve desired results!
Why It’s Worth Buying: More than 13,289 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
Price at the time of publication: $6.52

2. Best Pigmented:Kat Von D Tattoo Liner

4.3
Kat Von D Tattoo Liner Image: Kat Von D Beauty

This award-winning eyeliner by Kat Von D is a must-have in your vanity. It comes with a thin felt tip applicator that gives you utmost precision and razor-sharp lines.This liner delivers impeccable pigmentation and stays put for a long time. The richly pigmented formula glides on easily, is smudge-proof, and does not fade throughout the day. Here’s a video featuring a detailed review of the product.

Color: Trooper Black | Product Dimensions: 5 x 0.7 x 0.5 inches | Weight: 0.32 Ounces

Pros

  • Richly pigmented
  • All-day wear
  • Smudge-proof
  • Water-resistant
  • Fine tip
  • Long-lasting
  • Easy to apply and remove
  • Fade-resistant
  • Non-irritating
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $23.0

3. Best Hypoallergenic:Honest Beauty Liquid Liner

4.1
Honest Beauty Liquid Eyeliner Vegan Smudge Flake Transfer Proof Carbon Free Silicone Free Cruelty Free Ophthalmologist Tested 0.058 fl. oz, Black, 0.06 Fl Oz Image: Honest Beauty

This premium eyeliner by Honest Beauty is fortified with essential plant-derived ingredients. The oil-free formula is super smooth and glides seamlessly onto your eyelids, and gives a satin-smooth finish. The liquid liner comes with a flexible wand that gives you precise control over the application. Its jet-black color stays put for up to 8 long hours without flaking and transferring. It has no flaking and no transferring formula that is hypoallergenic formula is suitable for all skin types to give professional quality results. This video will help you understand the product better.

Color: Black | Product Dimensions: 0.6 x 0.5 x 4.6 inches | Weight: 0.32 Ounces.

Pros

  • Natural ingredients
  • Longwear formula
  • Flake-free
  • Transfer-resistant
  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Flexible tip
  • PEG-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Petrochemicals-free
  • Carbon-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Smears easily
Quick Tip: If you have hooded eyes, line half or a third of your eyelid to avoid smearing.
Why It’s Worth Buying: Almost 3,017 happy users have mentioned the value and quality of this product.
Price at the time of publication: $12.99

4. Best Long-Wearing:Almay Intense i-Color 

Add intensity and drama to your eyes with the Almay Intense i-Colour. The easy-to-apply hypoallergenic liquid eyeliner contains vitamin E, which is a natural antioxidant. It helps condition and nourish the delicate skin around the eyelids. The smooth formula glides easily, and the mess-free applicator ensures that your eyeliner gives precise lines and you’re on point! The oil-free formula is smudge-proof and water-resistant. This eyeliner is available in four different colors – black amethyst, the black pearl, black lesson, and black topaz.

Color: Black Raisin

Pros

  • Longwear formula
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Water-resistant
  • Easy application
  • Fragrance-free
  • Value for money
  • Ophthalmologist-tested
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Not richly-pigmented
Quick Tip: For best definition, trace along and keep a line wedged into your lower lashes to create a fuller effect.
Price at the time of publication: $39.99

5. Best Flake-Proof:Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl Liner

4.3
Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl Liner – Raven Image: Smashbox
 

This oil-free kohl liner by Smashbox is richly pigmented and gives an intense black matte finish on application. It has a unique cap that sharpens the tip automatically with every twist to maintain the precise tip. This helps create well-defined strokes that accentuate your eyes. The creamy formula dries up instantly and is waterproof and smudge-proof.

Color: Plain | Product Dimensions: 4 x 5 x 4 inches | Weight: 0.01 Ounces

Pros

  • Water-resistant
  • Longwear formula
  • Flake-proof
  • Richly pigmented
  • Easy application
  • Value for money
  • Smudge-proof
  • Easy to remove

Cons

  • Expensive
Quick Tip: Before using this eyeliner, prep your eyes with concealer and apply brown eyeshadow for enhanced effect.
Price at the time of publication: $18.3

6. Best Smudge-Proof:Too Faced Better Than Sex Liquid Eyeliner 

4.6
Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Eyeliner Image: Too Faced

The Too Faced Better Than Sex Liquid Eyeliner comes with a dual-fiber brush that creates a fluid, sharp, and smudge-proof line with every stroke. The water-resistant formula is infused with ultra-rich deep, black pigments for a bold look and stays put for up to 24 hours.

Color: Black

Pros

  • Smooth application
  • Longwear formula
  • Quick-drying
  • Flake-proof
  • Waterproof
  • Smudge-proof
  • Smooth texture
  • Easy removal

Cons

  • Expensive
Price at the time of publication: $24.0

7. Best For Bold Looks:LLBA Liquid Eyeliner

4
LLBA Liquid Eyeliner Image: Llba Professional

Get your hands on the ultimate liquid liner – the LLBA Liquid Liner! The high-performance eyeliner stays on for up to 12 hours. Its pen-shaped ultra-thin tip lets you draw those precise strokes effortlessly. Its gel-based formula dries quickly which is ideal for bold, dramatic, and artistic looks. The waterproof formula is highly pigmented but is also easy to remove using a makeup remover. It is vegan and doesn’t budge!

Pros

  • Super long-lasting formula
  • Ultra-thin tip for precise application
  • Vegan
  • Waterproof
  • Easy to remove
  • Cruelty-free
  • Paraben-free

Cons

  • Not for sensitive skin
Price at the time of publication: $12.99

8. Best For Easy Application:bareMinerals Lash Domination Ink Liner 

Be it a dramatic winged look, a classic cat-eye, or a subtle eyeliner look-the bareMinerals Lash Domination Ink Liner gives you utmost precision with just a single sweep. The well-designed felt tip allows you to create a thin, medium, or thick line with ease. The formula is smudge-free, waterproof, non-feathering, and transfer-proof. The non-drying formula accentuates the eye and is easy to apply and remove.

Pros

  • Non-drying formula
  • Longwear
  • Smooth texture
  • Easy-glide
  • Easy removal
  • Smudge-free
  • Waterproof
  • Transfer-resistant
  • Value for money

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $49.99

9. Best Dermatologist-Approved:Vasanti Kajal Extreme Intense Eyeliner 

4
Vasanti Kajal Extreme Intense Eyeliner Image: Vasanti Cosmetics

The Vasanti Kajal Extreme Intense Eyeliner has a creamy formula, and has a built-in sharpener and smudger to help you create different eye makeup looks. This defining liner is waterproof, fast-drying, and stays for up to 8 hours. The formula offers high-definition color in a single swipe and dries into a velvety, matte finish. The color sets after 30 seconds allowing you ample time to smudge it and create a smokey effect. This kajal is available in two different shades – charcoal brown and intense black.

Color: Charcoal Brown | Product Dimensions: 0.75 x 0.75 x 7.01 inches | Weight: 0.71 Ounces

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Waterproof
  • Smudge-proof
  • Creamy formula
  • Matte-finish
  • Dermatologist approved
  • Vegan
  • GMO-free
  • Triclosan-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Mineral oil-free

Cons

  • May irritate sensitive eyes
Price at the time of publication: $19

10. Best For Sensitive Skin:Beauty Garde Oil-Free Liquid Eyeliner

This Beauty Garde Oil-Free Liquid Eyeliner has a unique flocked tip applicator that gives you professional precision. The eyeliner is smudge-proof, water-resistant, delivers a richly pigmented color, and stays put all day. The easy-to-apply formula lets you nail different eyeliner looks in a jiffy. It is non-irritating, safe for sensitive eyes and skin, and easy to remove.

Product Dimensions: 0.55 x 0.55 x 3.98 inches | Weight: 0.64 Ounces

Pros

  • Richly-pigmented
  • Long-lasting
  • Waterproof
  • Smudge-proof
  • Easy to apply
  • Non-irritating
  • Paraben-free
  • Carmine-free
  • Carbonate-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Feels sticky on extensions
Price at the time of publication: $22

11. Best Cruelty-Free:Essence Long-Lasting Eye Pencil

4.4
Essence Long-Lasting Eye Pencil Image: Essence Cosmetics

Let your eyes speak with the Essence Long-lasting Eye Pencil. It is a smudge-proof formula that glides effortlessly to give a glamorous look. The eye pencil can be used to create versatile looks, from casual to dramatic smokey eyes. It has an ultra-slim tip that allows precise application and creates subtle lines to give you a classy look. Plus, it is waterproof and dermatologically tested, so you can enjoy long-lasting wear without worrying about irritation.

Color: Black | Product Dimensions: 2 x 0.3 x 5.9 inches | Weight: 0.85 Ounces.

Pros

  • Long-lasting
  • Waterproof
  • Idea for daily use
  • Skin-friendly
  • Vegan and cruelty-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Acetone-free
  • Perfume-free

Cons

None

Price at the time of publication: $14.95

Oil-free eyeliners are good for nailing that perfect eye makeup every time, especially if you’re wearing lash extensions. But, before getting your hands on any of the eyeliners mentioned in the above list, read the section given below to make the correct choice.

The Things To Consider Before Buying An Oil-Free Eyeliner

Here are a few factors to consider when investing in an oil-free eyeliner:

1. Texture

Whether you choose a liquid, gel, or pencil eyeliner, make sure your oil-free formulation goes on smoothly and does not tug on your lashes or eyelids. If they do, your eyelashes can end up falling out!

2. Ingredients

The skin around your eyes is more sensitive than any other part of your body. Thus, when choosing an oil-free eyeliner, always look for a gentle formula that doesn’t irritate your eyes. Avoid products with synthetic preservatives, essential oils, and alcohol. They may irritate the skin around the eyes. Instead, go for products with natural extracts.

3. Longevity

If the eyeliner does not stay for long and smudges, it will ruin your whole look. So always check if the products are smudge-proof, waterproof, flake-proof, and stay for at least 8-hours.

4. Type Of Applicator

All eyeliners come with felt-tip applicators, except the kohl eyeliner pencils. The applicators that come with gel eyeliners are usually a bit thick, while the ones with liquid eyeliners are thin and are meant for high precision application. You may also buy pen-like eyeliners for better grip and easy application. Choose any of these depending on your ease of use.

Hairstylist Jill Turnbull says, “For those taking their first enchanting steps into the world of eyeliners, selecting the right applicator is of utmost importance. Pencils or felt-tip pens shall be your companions, offering ease of use and that coveted control over your creation.”

5. Price

Make sure you select a product that is of premium quality and justifies the price. If you end up going for cheaper options, you might be stuck with an ineffective formula.

6. Color

The final yet most important thing that you want to decide is the color of eyeliner you want. You can choose the good ol’ black liner for everyday use. But, if you want your eyes to stand out, especially on special occasions, go for different colors.

Infographic: Tips To Make Your Eyeliner Smudge-Proof

Smudged eye makeup can make you look like a raccoon. If you have been facing this issue for quite some time, we suggest switching to an oil-free eyeliner that has longer staying power than ordinary eyeliner and does not budge a bit. If you have been wondering how to use these oil-free eyeliners, check out the infographic below for tips.

Tips To Make Your Eyeliner Smudge-Proof (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.

Download Infographic in PDF version Download Infographic
Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

When your skin type is oily, you must opt for makeup products that can control excess oil while looking non-cakey. The oil-free eyeliners in the market are smudge-free and resistant to sweat, oil, and tears. The Maybelline New York Lasting Drama Gel Eye Liner offers a smooth application and is ideal for creating various eyeliner looks, while the Kat Von D Tattoo Liner comes with a fine brush tip that allows you to achieve the perfect winged eyeliner look. The Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl Liner has a precise tip and is perfect for tightlining and waterlining. You can opt for these eyeliners during important events, especially during the summer season. The highly-pigmented formula keeps your eyeliners intact for long hours. However, while choosing an oil-free eyeliner, you should check out whether they are too drying, or prone to forming cracks and creases on the skin surrounding your eyes.

Why Trust Stylecraze?

The author of this article, Baishali Bhattacharya, is certified in makeup artistry. She knows that some products, like eyeliners, are made with oil bases that can ruin your fake lashes. She went online and studied many products, their ingredients, and reviews on different forums to bring you this exclusive list of oil-free eyeliners. These come with benefits such as smooth application, easy removal, high color payoff, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you know if an eyeliner is oil-free?

Most eyeliners mention it on the packaging if their formulas are oil-free. But always check if your eyeliner is easy to remove with a little warm water. If yes, your eyeliner has an oil-free formula.

Why are oil-free eyeliners great to use with false lashes?

Oil-free eyeliners are great to use with false lashes and extensions as they have no oil to break down the glue in the falsies. This helps your extensions and falsies stay in place for longer hours.

Which type of oil-free eyeliner is the best choice for beginners?

Look for easy-to-use, beginner-friendly formulas that glide effortlessly on the lids. For example, the bareMinerals Lash Domination Ink Liner.

How do you apply an oil-free eyeliner?

Follow the given steps to get that perfect eyeliner looks every time.
Step 1: Get close to a mirror with enough light and position yourself to get steady.
Step 2: Draw out the outer edges of the eyes to match them in length and width.
Step 3: Trace a line from the outer corner of your eyes to the inner corners to complete the look. Stay as close to the root as possible. You can thicken the line with successive layering.
Pro Tip: Curl your toes to prevent your hands from getting shaky.

Can we put eyeliner on the bottom lid?

Yes, you can put eyeliner on the bottom lid, but ensure to keep it thin as a thick liner on the bottom lids makes your eyes look smaller and heavy set.

Can I use oil-free eyeliner everyday?

Yes, you can use an oil-free eyeliner every day. Make sure that the product is lightweight, non-toxic, and easy to remove.

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