15 Best Gel Eyeliners Of 2022 That You Must Try
1. Best Highly Pigmented Formula: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
A true original. This award-winning, long-wearing eyeliner offers the precision of a liquid liner with the ease of a gel-based formula – all with 12 hours of waterproof, sweat, and humidity-resistant wear. This is available in a range of 14 shades. Pros
Highly pigmented Long-wearing Does not smudge or fade Comes in 14 stunning shades Waterproof Suitable for sensitive eyes
Cons
Expensive You’ll have to purchase the brush separately Slightly difficult to remove
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner Review
The Bobbi Brown Long-wear Gel Eyeliner in ‘Black Ink’ is a cult favorite! It’s creamy, incredibly pigmented and so easy to apply. You can create any look with this eyeliner with much precision and perfection, be it a smokey eye or a subtle daytime look. It comes in a glass pot with a screw cap with 3 grams of product, and you need the smallest amount for application. This pot would last you for a good five months. It does not smudge, streak, and stays put all day long until you remove it with an oil-based makeup remover. There’s nothing more we could ask for!
2. Best Waterproof Formula: Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel
Makeup artists are always looking for items that provide a significant visual effect in a short amount of time. This highly pigmented Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel is the key to flawless, long-lasting eye makeup. With only one coat, it gives maximum coverage while delivering smudge-proof, bright color that lasts longer. Pros
Long-wearing Highly pigmented Smooth and easy application Long-lasting Smudge-proof Waterproof
Cons
The product may dry out if you don’t close it properly
Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel Review
The high-impact pigments in Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel provide maximum coverage and rich colors with a single stroke. It is extremely pigmented and distributes evenly, making it easy to apply. The velvety, beautiful, long-lasting texture is extremely durable and smear-resistant. It delivers a crease-proof finish, making it great for everyday makeup, date nights, and party looks.
3. Best Long-Wearing Formula: MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline
Ultra-smooth, Fluidline’s gel formula provides the precision of a liquid liner with a silkier, softer finish. Goes on foolproof with a brush in an easy dip-and-stroke action. Long-wearing up to 16 hours and smudge-proof. Lines up in a rich array of colors and finishes. Available in 14 shades.
Long-wearing Highly pigmented Very creamy consistency Smooth and easy application Smudge-proof and waterproof Ophthalmologist-tested Dermatologist tested
No applicator provided You need to seal the cap tightly after each use, or there is a risk of the product in the pot drying out
MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline Review
This gel eyeliner by MAC is a winner for those of you with oily eyelids. Its impressive staying power will make this your go-to eyeliner. It’s extremely pigmented and glides on smoothly, making application so forgiving and easy, unlike a liquid liner! Make sure you use an angled or slanted brush for precision. There are 14 stunning shades to choose from, and at $17, this one’s a steal deal!
4. Best Ophthalmologist-Tested Formula: Julep When Pencil Met Gel Long-Lasting Waterproof Eyeliner
It is an eye pencil with the formula of a gel eyeliner. Made with extra-finely milled pigments, this waterproof formula provides an intense color payoff. The creamy formula glides effortlessly without any tugging or pulling. The highly pigmented formula is clinically proven to last 10+ hours.It is cruelty-free and ophthalmologist-tested. Pros
Long lasting Waterproof Highly pigmented Intense color payoff Ophthalmologist-tested SLS-free Paraben-free Cruelty-free
Cons
Might be difficult to apply after sharpening
Julep When Pencil Met Gel Long-Lasting Waterproof Eyeliner Review
This pencil-like eyeliner comes in a sturdy eye pencil packaging that allows you to draw thin, precise, or bold strokes. The creamy formula goes on the skin smoothly and provides long-lasting vibrant pigmentation without smudging or pulling. The waterproof formula provides a beautiful shine. It is available in various matte and shimmer shades to match all your moods. The sleek structure of the eyeliner fits your bags easily.
5. Best For Everyday Wear: UCANBE 2 in 1 Black and Brown Gel Eyeliner
The UCANBE 2-in-1 Black and Brown Gel is an incredible gel eyeliner kit that comes in two classic shades, black and brown. This gel is waterproof, long-lasting, and smudge-proof and can be removed using makeup remover. It is simple to use and comes with two small makeup brushes that can help to design and create the desired look. Pros
Highly pigmented Glides smoothly and easily Creates lines with precision Long-wearing Waterproof Smudge-proof Value for money Ease of application
Cons None
UCANBE 2 in-1 Black and Brown Gel Eyeliner Review
The creamy gel’s light and flexible texture provides a long-lasting waterproof, non-blooming finish. It is made of a thin formula that enables easy application and a waterproof composition that is not readily destroyed. It has a deep color and glides on gently, allowing you to get it perfect before it dries. It is simple to apply and a must-have eyeliner and eyebrow combo for various events, including party makeup, casual makeup, and wedding makeup.
6. Best Smudge-Proof Formula: Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner Gel Eye Crayon Eyeliner
Make a bold statement with this extreme-wear, waterproof eyeliner. Like a gel pot eyeliner encase within a crayon, this breakthrough formula is exclusive to Marc Jacobs Beauty. It gives you a flawless, precise application and sets in place for all-day wear. Available in 26 shades.
Beautifully pigmented shades Extremely long-wearing Waterproof, smudge-proof and rub-proof Stunning packaging with built-in sharpener Easy application No harmful chemicals
Expensive Very hard to remove
Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner Gel Eye Crayon Eyeliner Review
This gel eyeliner comes in a silver, metallic retractable pencil packaging with an in-built sharpener; so, packaging wise, this one’s super convenient. Its texture is smooth, velvety, and gel-like, and it so effortlessly glides onto your lids without pulling or tugging. It has a wide range of 26 shades to choose from, and each shade is intensely pigmented. This sure is one of the best gel crayon eyeliners out there!
7. Best Value For Money: Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner
This waterproof eyeliner has a long-lasting gel formula that achieves dramatic eye looks. Achieve winged drama with this smudge-free formula that sets instantly and glides on easily to deliver intense color for up to 24 hours. Available in 4 shades. Pros
Long-wearing Intensely pigmented Smudge-proof and waterproof Glides like velvet Comes with a brush Value for money
Cons
The cap needs to be closed tightly after application, or else the formula will dry out. Tested on animals
Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner Review
This gel liner comes in a jar with a very professional eyeliner brush, which works with precision and ease. The bristles of the brush are soft and make the formula glide smoothly. The color is highly pigmented and has a creamy texture that does not irritate the eyes. It stays on all day without smudging or smearing. This is a great option to create any kind of look – from a cat-eye to a wing – with much ease. For $9, this one’s super reasonable and efficient for a gel liner.
8. Best Fade-Resistant Option: Anastasia Beverly Hills Darkside Waterproof Gel Liner
Ultra-pigmented gel-cream pencil with a slim, retractable tip. The waterproof formula is long-wearing and provides intense, liquid-like results.
Long wearing Glides on smoothly Very pigmented Doesn’t fade or run Smudge-proof and waterproof
Available in one shade Feels a little heavy Pricey
Anastasia Beverly Hills Darkside Waterproof Gel Liner Review
This one’s popular among YouTube beauty vloggers. The Anastasia Beverly Hills Darkside Waterproof Gel Liner comes in a retractable pencil packaging, which is classy and convenient. It goes on smooth and provides a bold color payoff. The staying power is impressive, and it lasts all day long without smudging or fading. This one’s great even for hot summer days as its formula is very durable.
9. Best Cruelty-Free Option: Hourglass 1.5 MM Mechanical Gel Eyeliner
The unique formula poured into a slim mechanical component has the malleability, intensity, and staying power of a traditional gel eyeliner. No pot, no brush, no clean-up required. The waterproof, transfer-proof, and long-lasting formula delivers extended wear. The precision 1.5 MM tip ensures effortless control and allows for tightlining in between lashes. Available in 3 shades.
Applies with precision Pigmented Long-wearing Waterproof and smudge-proof Perfect for tightening Formulated without harmful ingredients Not tested on animals
Pricey Limited shades Less amount of product for the price Non-retractable pencil
Hourglass 1.5 MM Mechanical Gel Eyeliner Review
This gel eyeliner by Hourglass comes in a mechanical pencil packaging that does not retract. Only dispense the product as needed and replace the cap after use to prevent drying. Its skinny 1.5 MM twist-up tip allows for utmost precision. The formula is incredibly pigmented, and it does not wear off all day until you make an effort to get it off with a makeup remover!
10. Best In Budget-Friendly: MUA Professional Intense Color Gel Eyeliner
Use this expert-tested shade for eye definition that lasts. The vibrant, intense color payoff is delivered in a velvety-soft glide-on formula that sets to prevent smudging and smearing. For best results, sharpen with an MUA Double-Ended Sharpener. It comes in 6 shades.
Attractive packaging and comes with a sharpener Pigmented The soft texture makes for easy application Produces well-defined and precise lines Long-wearing Budget-friendly Does not smudge or bleed until you rub your eyes
Contains parabens Its cap does not close tightly Its tip breaks easily due to its creamy texture
MUA Professional Intense Color Gel Eyeliner Review
This eyeliner pencil by Makeup Academy comes in a regular pencil packaging with a cap that includes a sharpener, making it convenient and handy. It’s very soft and creamy in texture, and one swipe delivers a decent color payoff, making the application really simple. It does not sting or irritate the eyes and is also waterproof. The longevity of this liner is a good 5-6 hours on the upper lash line, and eventually, it fades evenly. You need to sharpen each time you go in with this liner to achieve crisp and precise lines. Overall, this is worth a try for a budget-friendly gel eyeliner. [ Also Read – Lakme Instaliner Eyeliner Pros and Cons ]
11. Best In Easy To Apply: NYX Cosmetics Gel Eyeliner and Smudger
NYX’s Gel Liner and Smudger deliver a bold color that won’t quit. Whether you’re after a perfectly defined line or a smokey eye, these silky shades blend easily and don’t crease or fade. This pigmented formula is now available in 7 shades.
Very pigmented Glides on smoothly Easy to apply Long-wearing Bold color Doesn’t smudge or move
Hard to remove Fades as the day goes on
NYX Cosmetics Gel Eyeliner and Smudger Review
This eyeliner by NYX comes in a clear glass pot with a black screw on the lid with the NYX logo on it. You need to store this upside down to prevent the product from drying out quickly. The packaging is heavy duty and looks great. It has a smooth texture and feels gel-like. The color payoff is rich and dark, just like in the pot. The wear-time is decent too, giving you an average of 8 hours. It’s similar to MAC’s Fluidline eyeliner, but for $9, this is a more economical option.
12. Best Sturdy Formula: L’Oreal Infallible Gel Lacquer Liner
High-shine lacquer finish. Smooth application. It lasts up to 24 hours. A glossy, lacquered eye is now easier than ever to create. Infallible Gel Lacquer Liner glides on smoothly for a clean, precise line that provides an intense, high-shine finish from dawn to dusk. Available in 5 rich, luminous shades.
Great pigmentation Creamy gel-like texture which makes it easy to apply Long-wearing Sturdy and convenient packaging Comes with a brush Budget-friendly
Takes a little time to fully dry Slightly smudges on the lower lashline
L’Oreal Infallible Gel Lacquer Liner Review
L’Oreal Infallible Gel Lacquer Liner comes in a thick glass pot with a golden cap. It is accompanied with a thin applicator brush with a cap. It is decent for creating thick or winged lines, but it’s difficult to get a thin line with the brush. Its formula is smooth and creamy, and it glides on like butter. It’s incredibly pigmented in one swipe, and you don’t need to build the color by layering it. It takes a little time to dry, but this gives you a window to work with it and correct any mistakes that you made. The staying power is great – it stays on for a good 12-14 hours with a primer underneath. Do give this a shot!
13. Best Lightweight Texture: Revlon Colorstay Creme Gel Eyeliner
Love a soft look for the day or a dramatically bold line for an opulent evening out? Colorstay Creme Gel Eyeliner has you covered. Always bold and completely smudge-proof, it’s your go-to liner no matter what your look. Available in two colors.
Bold and smudge-proof Waterproof Glides smoothly to create delicate to dramatic lines Decently pigmented Affordable
A single swipe doesn’t do a great job, so you need to build up the color Slightly fades through the day
Revlon Colorstay Creme Gel Eyeliner Review
This gel eyeliner by Revlon comes in really convenient packaging. The brush is placed strategically in the upper half of the cap, which makes it very handy to use. Its texture is soft and creamy and is completely opaque, but swiping twice helps you build the color for a bolder look. This one’s completely user-friendly and is great for beginners because you just can’t go overboard with this product. Give this a shot if you’re new to eyeliners and want to go in for a natural look.
14. Best For Vibrant Look: Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Gel Eyeliner
Draw the line with Scandalous eye-looks! Up to 24 hours of rich, intense color that doesn’t flake, smudge, smear, or run. It’s easy to apply and glides smoothly. It comes with a professional brush for complete control to draw the lines you want.
Long-wearing Convenient packaging Smudge-proof Nonfading color Budget-friendly
Isn’t quite waterproof but it needs a makeup remover to take off The applicator brush does not work very efficiently
Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Review
The Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Gel Eyeliner comes in a regular plastic tube packaging accompanied by a brush. Its texture is slightly dry and gritty, and it’s difficult to pick the amount of product required due to this texture. Its pigmentation is medium and can be built up with a minimum of two swipes required to get a full, vibrant look. Its long staying power makes up for a lot of its cons, and for $5, this one’s a great deal!
15. Best Transfer-Resistant Formula: Ulta Gel Eyeliner Pencil
Ulta’s Gel Eyeliner Pencil is a super creamy, pigmented gel eyeliner pencil that provides effortless, smooth application, and lasting pigmented coverage. Available in 20 shades.
Easy to apply Long-wearing Glides on smoothly Bold and pigmented color Easy removal
Slightly tends to smudge on hot days Evenly fades through the day
Ulta Gel Eyeliner Pencil Review
At $8, this gel eyeliner by Ulta is a great option. It is super creamy, smooth, and pigmented. It doesn’t transfer and gives you decent staying power, even in the waterline. Also, you have a variety of shades to choose from, which is a bonus. Give this a try; you won’t be sorry!
Flaunting perfectly lined eyes, be it a smokey eye, a subtle wing, or a sassy cat’s-eye, the key to perfecting any eye makeup look is to choose a good quality eyeliner. Gel eyeliner is exceptionally durable and pigmented, giving you jaw dropping results. In order to ace your eyeliner look with the right gel liner, we have curated a list of features to consider before you go ahead and buy one.
How To Choose The Best Gel Eyeliners
1. Ingredients
Always check the product packaging or description to avoid harmful chemicals like DMDM hydantoin, formaldehydes, and parabens. Look for smoothening ingredients like carnauba wax which helps the eyeliner glide on easily. Ingredients like vitamin E and oils like jojoba, argan, and grapeseed deeply condition the skin so that it’s well-nourished.
2. Applicator
Gel pot eyeliners usually come with a brush applicator. Choose an applicator that is thick at the bottom and has a pointed end, so you can draw precise lines, as thick or thin as you want. When it comes to gel eye pencils, make sure the tip applicator is made with a sturdy yet bendable felt material, as hard ones can be tough to work with. For a sharpenable pencil, look for a sharpener in the packaging or you might have to purchase one separately. Retractable pencils usually lose their shape so look for pencils that retain their shape over time.
3. Type
There are two main types of gel liners in the market, Gel pot liners and gel eye pencils. Each of them has their own benefits in terms of usability, and results.
Gel Pot Liners
A Gel pot liner comes in a small container with a brush. It has a creamy texture, and gives intense color payoff and the formula is highly pigmented. You can also use your own set of brushes, to create your desired look if needed. The only drawback of gel pot liners is that it can dry up quickly, if you do not seal it properly.
Pencil Liners
The gel pencil liners are perfect for daily use, and are very budget-friendly. They are very long-lasting, and come with retractable packaging making it perfect for on-the-go application. They are also handy, when it comes to creating a sharp and well-defined look.
4. Color
When it comes to the color of the gel liner, solid black and white colors are a must have in your vanity. Gel eyeliner also comes in a variety of different colors, from bright royal tones to glittery and neon colors. Choose the right one that matches the natural color of your eyes, or you can take a risk and make a statement with a pop of color. For example, gold, copper, and champagne colors suit blue eyes beautifully.
5. Durability
You must also take into consideration the durability of the gel liner. Some stay for just 6 to 7 hours, but some can last for up to 24 hours. Also, check for additional features like waterproof, smudge-proof, water-resistant and fade-proof for long stay power. Gel eyeliners may seem intimidating as they are not the usual liquid eyeliner that we’re so accustomed to. But, if you tend to do a lot of cat eyes, these are worth trying as you can quickly get a clean, precise line owing to the thicker formula. Once you’ve mastered the techniques, gel eyeliner is a cakewalk! Besides this, to choose the right eyeliner color for you, you have to factor in things like your eye color, your skin tone, and your age. There are so many eyeliner colors that would work amazingly for your features, so don’t be afraid to try different shades. *Subject to Availability
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Esha Saxena, who penned this article, has a vast knowledge of makeup. She recommends these gel eyeliners after going through many product reviews. These products are selected based on their pigmentation, lasting ability, ease of application, precision, and many more. You can get the perfect eye line without any fuss or mess with these eyeliners. What is gel eyeliner good for? A gel eyeliner can be used to get defined and bold eye lines in any shape you desire. You can correct mistakes made by gel liners much more easily and quickly. They usually offer mess-free applications. How long can you use gel eyeliner? A good gel eyeliner is long-lasting and smudge-proof and last between 12 to 36 hours after application. How do you maintain gel eyeliner? Gel eyeliners can dry out quickly. To maintain gel eyeliners and prevent them from drying out, you can use a drop of castor oil to give the formula a good texture and cooling effect. Are gel eyeliners better than liquid eyeliners? When it comes to thickness and texture, gel eyeliners are definitely better. They are ideal for beginners who struggle with creating wings and cat eye. They show solid colors instantly without having to layer on. Is gel eyeliner easy to apply? Unlike pencil and liquid eyeliners, gel eyeliners are easy to apply and won’t slide off easily. They are foolproof and do not smudge easily.
Recommended Articles
Top Worthy Drugstore Liquid Eyeliners Add Dramatic Look To Your Eye Makeup These Best Magical Eyeliners Turn Your Small Eyes Into BIGGER Ones With This Simple Eyeliner Tutorial Best Lakme Eyeliner Reviews