I’ll admit it, I can be fickle when it comes to eyeliners. I am always on the lookout for the best - liquid, cream, space-age material, whatever! But if you’re going for a cat-eye or even just a sleek, lash-defining line, it’s got to go on perfectly.
…Oh, and also stay there once it’s on.
Here are my favorites of this moment for staying power, quality of color and usability:
They’re Real! Push-Up Liner: $24
PRO’s:
-This soft and flexible rubbery tip makes a precise line (thick or thin!) with a bevel at the end… purrfect for a cat-eye.
-This liner goes NO. WHERE. once it’s on. Ever feel like spontaneously running through a sprinkler or hanging by the pool in your perfectly placed cat-eye liner? This one is for you.
CONS:
-Once it sets, this creamy, stay-put formula doesn’t have the most color saturation I’ve seen. It would be A+ in a very very dark blackest Black kind of shade.
-Once the product has lived in your makeup bag for a while, it can dry out.
ELF Essential Expert Liquid Liner: $1
PRO’s:
-Super budget-friendly buy (no... you didn't hallucinate. This is $1)
-It’s staying power outweighs many more expensive versions
-The applicator brush is user-friendly for most 'A-typer's' (not too too long or floppy), but take your time to prevent wayward brush action.
CONS: It dries very quickly, so fix any botched spots ASAP or you’re stuck with a look you likely weren’t going for. :/.
-If you're used to a foam applicator or a shorter brush, this may not be a good fit.
PRO’s:
-The handle’s ergonomic design (hence the name) makes this liner easy to hold and guide while applying. The shape also makes for an easy application on someone else, if you happen to be helping a friend. **
- This formula is less wet going on than the ELF, but delivers almost the same depth of black. LOVE the saturation.
-The foam tip seems to hold the right amount of product, perfect for a thick OR skinny line.
CON:
-Well, I can't think of one. There it is.
MAC Fluidline $16.50
PRO’s:
-Is it a gel? Is it a cream? NO! It's Fluidline!! This awesome foolproof, waterproof winner is SUPER easy to use if you're comfortable with using a brush.
-Doesn't flake, crumble, or smudge. If it HAS to be perfect, this is your liner.
CON:
-You must be comfy with using a brush. Sometimes (especially if you get stuck doing your makeup in rush hour on the grid-locked Eisenhower like I do sometimes...) you just need convenience, too. A brush might be a home- application-only thing. In case you are in the market, however, This is the brush I suggest and personally use. (welcome to your next fave brush if you've never tried!)
I don't always review makeup... but eyeliner advice may prevent others from showing up late to dinners, events, and dates. It's almost a public service, right?? Until next time, stay fabulous, my friends!
**Product Credit: They're Real and The Curve were both donated by my best friend Kel, so I could experiment and yes: help the greater good (Those who need eyeliner reviews). Thanks, Kelly! xoxox
