Best Eyeliner For Under Eyes – Top Picks & Guide

Ever wish your eyes could pop with a little extra definition, but you’re unsure how to apply eyeliner underneath them without looking like a raccoon? You’re not alone! Many people find lining their lower lash line tricky, and it’s easy to end up with smudges or a harsh look.

Choosing the right eyeliner for your under-eyes can feel overwhelming. There are so many kinds – pencils, gels, liquids – and different colors and finishes. Plus, the skin under your eyes is delicate, so you need something that’s gentle and stays put. Getting it wrong can make your eyes look smaller or tired, which is the opposite of what you want!

But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly which eyeliners work best for the under-eye area. We’ll explore the types of liners that give you a beautiful, defined look that lasts all day. Get ready to master the art of under-eye eyeliner and make your eyes shine!

Top Eyeliner For Under Eyes Recommendations

SaleNo. 1
Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, Smudge-Proof, Eye Makeup with Built-In Sharpener, Long-Lasting, Matte Finish, 201 Black, 2 pack
  • LASTING EYELINER: Rich color looks freshly applied all day long; transfer-proof, waterproof, smudge-proof and fade-proof
  • UP TO 24HR WEAR: Creates the look you want and stays on strong
  • EASY APPLICATION: Pencil eyeliner glides on, creating intensely defined lines that can go from subtle to dramatic. Includes built-in sharpener for the perfect pointed tip and a smudger to blend.
  • TWO FINISHES: Available in 12 totally wearable matte and shimmer shades
  • OPHTHALMOLOGIST TESTED: Suitable for use on waterline and comfortable to wear
No. 2
Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, Smudge-Proof, Eye Makeup with Built-In Sharpener, Long-Lasting, Matte Finish, 202 Black Brown, 0.01 oz
  • LASTING EYELINER: Rich color looks freshly applied all day long; transfer-proof, waterproof, smudge-proof and fade-proof
  • UP TO 24HR WEAR: Creates the look you want and stays on strong
  • EASY APPLICATION: Pencil eyeliner glides on, creating intensely defined lines that can go from subtle to dramatic. Includes built-in sharpener for the perfect pointed tip and a smudger to blend.
  • TWO FINISHES: Available in 12 totally wearable matte and shimmer shades
  • OPHTHALMOLOGIST TESTED: Suitable for use on waterline and comfortable to wear
No. 3
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Mechanical Eye Pencil,Vivid Rich Mechanical, Creamy Retractable Eyeliner - Always Onyx, Black Eyeliner
  • Retractable Eye Liner: A line and defined eye is just a twist away with this eyeliner pen; Intense pigment covers like a liquid eyeliner while its creamy formula holds for hours; No need to sharpen just twist up and apply for a winged out eyeliner look
  • Smudge Proof and Smooth: This smudge proof eyeliner glides on effortlessly and lasts all day through heat and humidity no sad bleeding eyeliner here; Available in natural to bright shades, any eyeliner look is possible with our Retractable Eye Pencil
  • All Eyes On Eye Makeup: Complete your look with our full range of eye makeup products ranging from eyeshadow palettes to false eyelashes, eyeliners, concealers, setting sprays, eyebrow makeup, eyeshadow primer and more
  • Cruelty Free Cosmetics: We believe animals belong in our arms, not in a lab; All of our makeup is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty free brand; We don't test any of our products on animals
  • Discover NYX Professional Makeup: Try all of our professional makeup products today from eyeshadow, eyeliner, and false lashes to liquid lipstick, lip gloss, primer, concealer, setting sprays and eyebrow makeup
SaleNo. 4
REVLON ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, Smudge-Proof, Eye Makeup with Built-In Sharpener, Long-Lasting, Matte Finish, 201 Black, 0.01 oz
  • LASTING EYELINER: Rich color looks freshly applied all day long; transfer-proof, waterproof, smudge-proof and fade-proof
  • UP TO 24HR WEAR: Creates the look you want and stays on strong
  • EASY APPLICATION: Pencil eyeliner glides on, creating intensely defined lines that can go from subtle to dramatic. Includes built-in sharpener for the perfect pointed tip and a smudger to blend.
  • TWO FINISHES: Available in 12 totally wearable matte and shimmer shades
  • OPHTHALMOLOGIST TESTED: Suitable for use on waterline and comfortable to wear
SaleNo. 5
Rimmel London Exaggerate Waterproof Eye Definer Eyeliner, Highly Pigmented, Long-Wearing, Built-In Smudger, 262, Blackest Black, 0.01oz
  • Built-in smudger and sharpener.
  • Intensely pigmented shades.
  • High-precision lines and subtle blending.
  • Highly pigmented, waterproof eyeliner formula.
  • Up to 10 hours of long-lasting wear.
No. 6
Almay All-Day Eyeliner Pencil, Smudge Proof, Waterproof Eye Makeup, Hypoallergenic, Built-In Sharpener, 205 Black, 0.01 oz
  • Define your eyes with beautiful color that lasts up to 16 hours
  • Oil free, water-resistant, long-lasting, and smudge-proof formula won't run, smear, or rub off
  • Built-in sharpener keeps point sharp for precise definition
  • Formulated with vitamin E to nourish and protect your delicate eye area
  • As always, hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist tested, fragrance free, clean, and cruelty free
No. 7
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Mechanical Eye Pencil, Vivid Rich Mechanical, Creamy Retractable Eyeliner - Under the Moonstone, Slate Grey Eyeliner
  • Create A Rich Eyeliner Look: The Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil vault is finally unlocked! Grab the richest matte, shimmer & metallic eyeliner shades! From spicy pearl to amber stunner, these razor-sharp eye liners will create the richest eye look ever
  • 1-Swipe Eye Liner: Our Vivid Rich Eyeliner Pencil comes in 12, 1-swipe vivid shades, each pencil eyeliner loaded with creamy gem-tone pigments for liner looks made easy! Mix & match our precious gem toned eye liner pencils or go monochrome
  • All Eyes On Eye Makeup: Complete your look with our full range of eye makeup products ranging from eyeshadow palettes to false eyelashes, eyeliners, concealers, setting sprays, eyebrow makeup, eyeshadow primer and more
  • Cruelty Free Cosmetics: We believe animals belong in our arms, not in a lab; All of our makeup is certified and acknowledged by PETA as a cruelty free brand; We don't test any of our products on animals
  • Remove Maybelline Makeup With Micellar Water: Use Garnier Micellar Water as a gentle makeup remover at night, and as a facial cleanser in the morning to prep skin for Maybelline makeup
SaleNo. 8
MISS ROSE M Gel Eyeliner, Black Eyeliner Pencils, delineador de ojos contra el agua, Easy to Use, Eye Makeup for Women (Black)
  • 🖤【BLACK GEL EYELINER】- The matte black gel eyeliner tool has a smooth and delicate texture,giving your skin a soft touch.Strong adhesion,no halo,thick and thin controllable silky black eye-liners,which can enlarge your eyes and create mysterious and sexy cat eyes.
  • 🖤【RICH COOL BLACK COLOR】- Smooth lines and cool black color, easy to apply and colored, and the natural formula does not irritate eyes.The soft tip of the cream eyeliner stick draws smoothly and evenly without agglomeration,easily shaping different and charming eye liner makeup.
  • 🖤【UNIQUE LIPSTICK SHAPE DESIGN】- This gel eyeliner pencil stick has a stylish lipstick-shaped appearance and a rotating design, easy to carry and use.You can choose to directly control the intensity of the drawing or use the eyeliner brush to draw according to your needs for different makeup such as eye shadow or eyeliner,or for the thick and fine lines.
  • 🖤【SMUDGE PROOF】- This eyeliner gel has natural smudge proof and sweat-proof formula,so you don’t have to worry about losing your makeup easily.Of course, makeup remover can also be used to remove makeup easily without any pigment residues.
  • 🖤【CUSTOMER SERVICE】- Customer Service is our first priority. If you have any questions. Pls feel free to contact us,We will solve your problem in the first time to ensure your best shopping experience.

Choosing the Best Eyeliner for Your Under Eyes

Want to make your eyes pop or hide those tired-looking shadows? Eyeliner for under your eyes can do wonders! But with so many options, picking the right one can feel tricky. This guide will help you find the perfect liner to brighten your gaze and boost your confidence.

What to Look For in Under-Eye Eyeliner

Key Features to Consider
  • Color: Light colors like white, cream, or nude are great for making eyes look bigger and more awake. Darker colors can define your eyes, but use them carefully to avoid looking tired.
  • Formula: You want a formula that won’t smudge or fade. Look for long-lasting or waterproof options.
  • Tip Type: A fine tip is best for precise application. A thicker tip can be good for a softer look.
  • Ease of Use: It should be easy to glide on without pulling or tugging at your delicate under-eye skin.
Important Ingredients to Know
  • Waxes (like Carnauba or Beeswax): These help the eyeliner stay put and give it a smooth texture.
  • Oils (like Jojoba or Castor Oil): These make the liner glide easily and can be moisturizing.
  • Pigments: These give the eyeliner its color.
  • Polymers: These help the liner dry down and become smudge-proof.
What Makes Eyeliner Great (or Not So Great)
Factors That Improve Quality:
  • Smooth Application: The liner should go on without skipping or dragging.
  • Long-Lasting Wear: It stays on all day without creasing or fading.
  • Smudge-Proof: It doesn’t transfer to your upper lid or under your eye throughout the day.
  • Gentle Formula: It doesn’t irritate your eyes or the sensitive skin around them.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
  • Dry Formula: It tugs at the skin, making it hard to apply.
  • Quick Smudging: It transfers easily, making your eyes look messy.
  • Irritating Ingredients: It causes redness or stinging.
  • Poor Pigmentation: The color is faint and needs many layers to show up.
User Experience and When to Use It

Using eyeliner under your eyes is simple. Most people apply it directly to the lower lash line or in the inner corner of the eye. A nude or white liner in the waterline (the wet part of your lower eyelid) can make your eyes look instantly brighter and more open. For a more dramatic look, a dark liner smudged softly along the lower lash line can add definition.

Use Cases:

  • Brightening Eyes: Use a nude or white liner to make tired eyes look more awake.
  • Defining Eyes: A soft brown or grey liner can add subtle definition.
  • Creating a Smoky Look: Smudge a black or deep brown liner for a sultry effect.
  • Correcting Eye Shape: A touch of liner can balance out your eye shape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What color eyeliner is best for under my eyes?

A: Light colors like nude, white, or cream are great for brightening and making eyes look bigger. Darker colors can add definition but use them lightly.

Q: Can I use any eyeliner on my waterline?

A: No, only eyeliners labeled “waterproof” or “for waterline” are safe for the inner rim of your eye. Other liners can irritate your eyes.

Q: How do I stop my under-eye eyeliner from smudging?

A: Use a long-lasting or waterproof formula. You can also set it with a bit of eyeshadow powder using a fine brush.

Q: Is it bad to put eyeliner under your eyes?

A: It’s not bad if you use the right product and apply it gently. Avoid harsh tugging on the delicate skin.

Q: What’s the difference between eyeliner for upper and lower lids?

A: Liners for the upper lid are often more pigmented and designed for precise lines. Under-eye liners should be gentler and often come in lighter shades for brightening.

Q: How do I apply eyeliner to my lower lash line without it looking harsh?

A: Use a soft pencil or a brush with eyeshadow. Apply lightly and then smudge it with a clean brush or your finger for a softer look.

Q: Can I use a liquid eyeliner under my eyes?

A: Yes, but it’s trickier. A fine-tipped liquid liner can work for a precise line, but pencil or gel liners are usually easier for under-eye application.

Q: What if I have dark circles? What eyeliner helps?

A: A nude or peach-toned eyeliner applied to the waterline can help cancel out the blue or purple tones of dark circles.

Q: How often should I replace my eyeliner?

A: Pencils can last 1-2 years, while liquid or gel liners should be replaced after 6-12 months to prevent bacteria growth.

Q: Can I use eyeliner if I wear glasses?

A: Absolutely! Eyeliner can help define your eyes and make them stand out even when wearing glasses.