10 Best Smudge Proof Eyeliners 2025 in the United States

The NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil in Smokin Topaz offers a creamy, retractable formula that eliminates the need for sharpening, making it convenient and easy to use. Its pigmentation is intense, comparable to liquid eyeliners, ensuring bold and defined eye looks.

One of its standout features is its smudge-proof nature, which helps the eyeliner stay put throughout the day, even in hot and humid conditions. This makes it a great choice for long wear without worrying about smudging or bleeding.

The eyeliner is also waterproof, adding to its long-lasting qualities, but this might make it slightly more challenging to remove without a good makeup remover. The retractable design adds convenience, but it can sometimes be prone to breaking if too much pressure is applied. Cruelty-free certification is a bonus for those who prioritize ethical beauty products.

The Julep When Pencil Met Gel Sharpenable Multi-Use Longwear Eyeliner Pencil in Ocean Blue is designed to meet the needs of those seeking a durable, high-performance liner. Its gel-like formula ensures a smooth application without tugging, suitable for both lash lines and waterlines, making it versatile. The intense pigmentation provides a bold blue matte color payoff in one swipe, which can be great for those looking for vibrant, standout eye makeup.

The product claims to be transfer-proof and offers over 10 hours of wear, thanks to its special wax blend and high-performance polymers, which is excellent for long-lasting makeup needs. While it promises water-resistant properties, actual user experience might vary depending on individual skin types and activities, so it may require some testing to see if it holds up in all conditions.

The pencil format requires sharpening, which might be less convenient for some users compared to twist-up liners. Additionally, while it boasts easy glide-on properties, removal might require a bit more effort with a good makeup remover due to its long-lasting formula. This eyeliner is suitable for users who want intense color and long wear, with a bit of maintenance involved in sharpening the pencil. It's a solid choice for those who prioritize pigmentation and longevity in their makeup routine.

The NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Epic Ink Liner stands out in several key areas for smudge-proof eyeliners. Its waterproof formula ensures that the eyeliner remains intact even under wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting wear. The pigmentation is impressive, delivering a rich, matte black finish that enhances any eye look.

The precise tip is another strong point, offering flexibility and ease of use, which allows for both fine and bold lines depending on the pressure applied. This is particularly beneficial for those who want versatility in their eyeliner application. However, while its longevity is commendable, it might pose a challenge when it comes to removal. Users may find it requires a bit more effort and a good makeup remover to completely clean off.

Additionally, as it is a liquid eyeliner, it may not be as beginner-friendly compared to pencil eyeliners. The vegan formula and cruelty-free certification add to its appeal, especially for ethically conscious consumers. This eyeliner suits those seeking a high-performance, long-lasting product with intense pigmentation and a flexible application tip, though it may require extra care during removal.