How to Apply Liquid Liner Like a Makeup Artist (Yes, It's Simpler Than You Think)

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Fact: I have always been (and always will be) passionate about liquid eyeliners. To me, no makeup look is truly complete without it. For as long as I can remember, I've received countless compliments on my steady hand and sharp wings from friends, coworkers, and a stranger every once in a while. For me, achieving the perfect liquid eyeliner look has always been a combination of practice, skill, and the best eyeliner formulas money can buy.

So, where did I start? I'll admit it's taken me years of trial and error, accompanied by too many makeup-remover wipes than I can count. Sure, the YouTube and TikTok tutorials helped me see how it was done, but it took practice in my spare time to perfect it. Now that I've been at this for a while, I think it's about time that I share some of the liquid eyeliners I swear by, along with some tips and tricks from a makeup artist I have on speed dial. Trust me—you'll want to reserve a spot in your makeup bag for these before everyone catches on.

What Should I Look for in Liquid Eyeliner?

According to professional makeup artist Brenda Orduno, there are a few ways to determine if an eyeliner is the perfect fit for you. While the formula is important to pay attention to, she also highlights the importance of preference. "I like a liquid liner with a felt tip because I find it easier to apply and achieve a winged liner," she says. "Some callouts to look for in liquid liners are smudge-proof, long wear, and quick dry. When these criteria are met, the application for liquid liners gets easier."

As a beauty editor, one of the other determining factors that go into my hunt for liquid eyeliner is comfort. Can I move the product around in my hand to achieve the angles and defined lines I desire? Is there any pulling or tugging of the skin as the brush moves against it? Taking note of how well a liquid eyeliner's formulation is distributed by its applicator can make a difference in what you end up paying for. Because I love a snatched wing that's sharp yet natural-looking, I tend to choose liquid eyeliners using a slim marker applicator.

A flexible, easy-to-use applicator tip allows for maximum manipulation, lending to eye-catching, defined lines that can be as minimal or bold as my heart desires on any given day. When shopping in-store, I'll quickly swipe the product on the back of my hand and allow it to dry, taking note of the way the formula feels on my skin, how the eyeliner looks right after application, the product's average wear time, and the ease of using its applicator tip.

How Should Liquid Eyeliner Be Applied?

One of the best things makeup beginners can do to level up their makeup skills is to simplify their method of application. A flawless freehanded wing comes with time and experience. For clean-looking results, hold the liner gently, allowing the brush applicator to glide naturally across the skin to avoid shaky application or rogue pen marks. If you've ever had the experience of attempting anything in a time crunch, then you know how complicated simple tasks can feel.

Orduno's biggest tip for using liquid eyeliner for the first time is to continue to breathe and focus on creating small strokes. "You can also apply your liner before your foundation, just in case your eyeliner needs to be cleaned up. This way, you can clean up your eye makeup without harming your face makeup!" If you can't get that perfect flick on the end of your wing, simply dip a flat makeup brush into some oil-based makeup remover to remove any mistakes.

Ready to give liquid eyeliner a try? With the help of Orduno, I've rounded up 15 of the best liquid eyeliners on the market everyone should have in their collection to level up their makeup game.

The Best Liquid Eyeliners, Listed

• Best Overall: Clinique High Impact Easy Liquid Eyeliner

• Best Formula for Beginners: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

• Best Waterproof Formula: KVD Tattoo Liner Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

• Best for a Smooth Application: Sigma Beauty Wicked Liquid Pen Eyeliner

• Best Drugstore Option: Wet n Wild Breakup Proof Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Best Overall Liquid Eyeliner: Clinique High Impact Easy Liquid Eyeliner

Clinique's best-selling mistake-proof liquid eyeliner creates defined, clean lines in one steady sweep with an ultrafine, precise brush, so I add it to my shopping cart whenever I have the chance. Not only is this one's unique tip extremely helpful for creating the cat eyes of my dreams, but the liner itself is resistant to smudging and flaking with up to 24 hours of wear.

Customer Review:"I searched and searched for an eyeliner that would apply easily and smoothly to my mature eyes and this is it! This is my 3rd purchase of this eyeliner and I still love it. A true black with little shine. Please don't ever change it."

Product Size:0.02-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:Two (Black, Brown)

Pros:Features a tapered, ultrafine precision brush for flawless application

Cons:Offered in a very limited amount of shades

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Best Formula for Beginners: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

Stila's best-selling and long-lasting liquid eyeliner uses a thin, marker-like tip for easy and precise application without skipping, smudging, or pulling the skin. I've had the Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner as part of my daily makeup routine for years, and can say with certainty that it's helped me majorly level up my eye liner game (and has earned a few memorable compliments along the way).

Customer Review:"My absolute favorite liquid eyeliner! The thin tip makes it easier to get crisp lines and the color is really deep and stunning. Even if you accidentally rub your eye, the eyeliner doesn't smudge. At the same time, it is not incredibly difficult to remove either."

Product Size:0.01-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:10 (Midnight, Cosmic Pink, Marine, Violet Haze, and more)

Pros:Formula is long-wearing and does not smudge, feather, or run

Cons:There's not much eyeliner provided in the pen, so it goes quickly

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Best Brown Liquid Eyeliner: Dior Diorshow Waterproof Liquid Liner

If your goal is to achieve a natural-looking liner look that creates definition for the eyes without taking away from their natural shape, consider adding a brown liquid eyeliner like this eyeliner to your makeup bag. The Diorshow On Stage Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner stands out to me because it has up to 24-hours of transfer-proof wear, has a fine, flexible tip for easy application, and comes in a number of intense colors with satin and pearly finishes, or subtler shades in a shimmer finish.

Customer Review:"This eyeliner glides smoothly for perfect lines every time and its smudge-proof formula is long-lasting. I have made it an essential addition to my daily makeup routine for a dramatic eye."

Product Size:0.01-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:Nine (Satin Black, Shimmer Green, Pearly Emerald, Satin Burgundy, and more)

Pros:Features an ultra-precise tip that allows liner to glide on smoothly

Cons:Offered at a high price point

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Best Black Liquid Eyeliner: Lancôme Artliner Precision Point Liquid Liner

Pull off an eye-catching cat eye with the help of this ultra-precise eyeliner by Lancôme that offers major color pigment and control. Its formula uses two film-forming polymers that make every look last even longer, which works beautifully with the liners uniquely shaped foam tip to line, shape, and define the eyes to perfection. This is the eyeliner I reach for when I'm after a bolder look, and I'm always happy with the stunning results.

Customer Review:"There is no better Liquid eyeliner on the market. The pigment is dark and rich. It shapes my eyes wonderfully. It's easy to apply and if you make a mistake It's easily removable. It provides that dramatic look I'm looking for."

Product Size:0.50-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:Five (Smoke, Chocolate, Black Satin, Blue Metallic, and more)

Pros:Does not scratch, tug or skip on the skin for a precise, professional look

Cons:None

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Best White Liquid Eyeliner: Milani Stay Put Tank Liquid Eyeliner

One of my best eye makeup tips for beginners to is using white eyeliner to brighten and bring attention to the eyes. The Stay Put Tank Liquid Eyeliner in White by Milani is one of my go-to's when I'd like to add a hint of color to my otherwise black and brown-based makeup looks. The liner is stored in a unique storage tank that locks all air out of the product and helps keep the formula fresh and ready for use.

Customer Review:"This is a great eyeliner! It goes on very smoothly and stays on all day. No smudging or getting wiped off throughout the day! I would definitely recommend this."

Product Size:0.02-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:Three (Black, Brown, White)

Pros:Has a formula that glides onto the skin without skipping or tugging skin

Cons:Requires light reapplication during wear for the liner to last up to its suggested 12 hours

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Best Waterproof Formula: KVD Tattoo Liner Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

I swear by KVD's Tattoo Liner to deliver defined eyeliner looks that last all day—rain or shine—without fading or feathering. The best-selling product was redesigned recently to combat dry-out between uses, but uses the same bold pigments and precise brush tip for fine line work, lash fills, and more. It's the answer to all of your artistic eye makeup look prayers (and does so without skipping or tugging on the skin).

Customer Review:"The title says it all! This weekend I went to the lake and decided to test just how waterproof this product really is. I was not disappointed! After many hours in the sun, being splashed while tubing, and jumping in the water multiple times, my eyeliner stayed perfect."

Product Size:0.02-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:Two (Trooper Black, Mad Max Brown)

Pros:Designed with a 0.01 mm-tip for ultra-precise application with little-to-no effort

Cons:The formula has a tendency to smudge and flake lightly once its dried

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Best for a Smooth Application: Sigma Beauty Wicked Liquid Pen Eyeliner

Whether you're new to the world of makeup or a beauty industry veteran, an easy-to-use and trustworthy eyeliner pen like this one by Sigma Beauty belongs in your makeup collection. With up to eight hours of wear, this felt-tip eyeliner offers maximum control and delivers a smooth satin finish that will make you wonder how you could have done your eyeliner without it. The only downside? This gem is currently only offered in one inky, black shade.

Customer Review:"I once had an amazing felt-tip eyeliner that I loved but haven't been able to find again. I read some reviews and decided to try this one. I was not disappointed. Definitely plan on buying again when I need to replace!"

Product Size:0.01-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:One (Wicked Black)

Pros:Formula applies smoothly and evenly with each saturated swipe

Cons:There was some slight tugging on the skin upon first application, but then never again

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Best Drugstore Liquid Eyeliner: Wet n Wild Breakup Proof Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Wet n Wild's liquid eyeliner offers a major color payoff, precise application, and a flake-proof formula without breaking the bank or disappearing throughout the day. I can always depend on this one to help me create an intense, strong line every time without having to worry about reapplication with up to 16 hours of wear. This one is also gentle on my lids, which makes wearing this one all the more comfortable.

Customer Review:"I really liked this liquid eyeliner, it lasts a long time because I cried when I used it and it still stayed there hehehe. The packaging is perfect, very eye-catching and illustrative. As for its ingredients, they are fine for me, the application was easy and it has excellent pigmentation."

Product Size:0.03-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:Six (Black, Ultra Black, Brown, Charcoal, and more)

Pros:Eyeliner is long-wearing as well as smudge, fake, and transfer-proof

Cons:Some light smudging is to be expected without allowing it to dry for a few minutes

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Best for Sensitive Eyes: Beauty Creations Overachiever Draw The Line Infinity Wear Liquid Liner

Orduno always stocks up on Beauty Creation's Overachiever Draw The Line Infinity Wear Liquid Liner. "It's a non-negotiable because it is pigmented, doesn't stain, and doesn't irritate my eyes when it's removed. I've used it on all occasions: traveling, playing water sports, and long work days—it doesn't break," she says. It's a formula Orduno trusts, and has a felt-tip applicator for detailed work on eyes of all shapes and sizes.

Customer Review:"This liner is everything! I have a liquid liner obsession and I must say this is to die for, especially at this price point. Pigment is great, guides on nice and easy with no tugging on the eyes. I have allergies and my eyes are super sensitive, I have absolutely no problems with this liner."

Product Size:0.32-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:One (Black)

Pros:Product applies smoothly and evenly to skin, then dries down quickly

Cons:None

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Best for Supporting Lash Health: Sisley-Paris Ligne Noire Eyeliner

Did you know that using some eyeliners can help support the overall look and health of your lashes with continued use? The Ligne Noir Eyeliner, for example, protects them with a coat of a vitamin-peptide powered formula that promotes look fuller, longer, revitalized lashes. The eyeliner also offers an intense black line in one stroke, dries quickly, and is long wearing thanks to its waterproof formula. It's also a huge plus that this eyeliner is housed in a chic tube that looks especially nice peeking out of any makeup drawer.

Customer Review:"This eyeliner is just amazing. It is not only a high-intensity eyeliner but it also cares for lashes so you get double the benefits. The tip is soft yet firm and glides smoothly over the eyelid for an easy application. It is long lasting, waterproof and the lashes appear improved after few weeks of application."

Product Size:0.01-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:One (Black)

Pros:Highly pigmented formula glides smoothly over the eyelid with a soft yet firm tip

Cons:Is currently only offered in one shade

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Best for a Matte Finish: Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Matte Liquid Liner

I was recommended this one by another eyeliner-obsessed beauty editor as an introduction into the benefits of incorporating a matte liner into my beauty routine, and it's become one of my top picks for a product that has the bold pigment I'm after without any pesky shine. Rare Beauty's Perfect Stroke Matte Liquid Liner has also recently been updated with a new brush, and it now features 800 fine bristles for fuss-free application.

Customer Review:"Rare Beauty's Perfect Strokes Matte Liquid Liner delivers rich, jet-black pigment with a smooth, precise application. The flexible brush tip glides effortlessly, making it easy to create both thin and bold lines. It dries quickly to a matte finish and is long-lasting, resisting smudging throughout the day. While it's not completely waterproof, it holds up well for everyday wear. The sleek packaging and ease of use make it a great choice for beginners and pros alike."

Product Size:0.03-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:One (Black)

Pros:Has a rich, long-lasting formula that doesn't fade, flake, or bleed onto the skin

Cons:It does have a tendency to dry between uses, so it's best to store upside down for continued use

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Best for Everyday Looks: Isamaya Eyeliner

I've been in love with Isamaya products for a year, but have just discovered their eyeliner. Now, I can't remember what I was doing to create my ultra-sleek lines before adding this product to my makeup routine. It has a super fine applicator brush that glides onto the skin easily without skipping and tugging, which delivers a stunning line ever time. It's perfect for the more subtle eyeliner looks I create on the daily, but can also deliver a great amount of drama. In other words, it's not leaving my makeup bag anytime soon.

Customer Review:"I do winged eyeliner nearly every day and have done so for years. This is my new favorite! The brush is skinny enough to do thin lines and fill them in for a bigger wing. It wears well but also removes incredibly easily, so I can clean up my lines without smudges."

Product Size:0.30-ounce liquid eyeliner pen

Shades Available:One (Black)

Pros:Designed with an intense black pigment for striking, eye-catching definition

Cons:The formula has a tendency to fade with all-day wear, requiring reapplication for the best results

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Best for Creating Bold Looks: Make Up For Ever Aqua Resist Color Ink

I'm not usually one for bold eye makeup looks, but this is another eyeliner I trust to help me bring them to life whenever I'm in the mood to play with shape and color. Make Up For Ever's Aqua Resist Color Ink uses a high-intensity, waterproof, and smudge-proof formula that's comes in a number of different shades and three finishes. Plus, it's crafted with sensitive eyes like mine in mind (which definitely earn it a few more points).

Customer Review:"I wore this eyeliner alone without any other eye makeup while I worked (and sweated) in my garden, so if there was any smudging, I'd know it was this eye liner. No smudging at all! The brush is easy to control, whether you want a fine line or a thicker one. Also very important to me is that it is hypoallergenic. It did not bother my sensitive eyes at all. I will buy this."

Product Size:0.07-ounce liquid eyeliner

Shades Available:14 (Matte Wood, Striking Chameleon, Gold Winner, Silver Storm, and more)

Pros:Offers maximum precision and payoff in one stroke and comes in three finishes

Cons:Has slightly patchy application that requires going over more than once

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Best for All-Day Wear: Lancôme Idôle Ultra Precise Waterproof Liner

I'm partial to creating more natural-looking eye looks, and have loved the results of this waterproof liner. It lasts all day without flaking, smudging, or bleeding into the rest of my makeup, and comes off easily with the help of micellar water (A.K.A. I don't have to tug on my skin to chip away at it). This liner also comes in an number of gorgeous shades to match your makeup needs, making this one of the most versatile eyeliners on the list.

Customer Review:"At first, I didn't have high hopes for this liner because I thought the brown would blend into my complexion. However, I quickly realized that this eye liner is perfect for everyday make up looks. The dark brown color gives a perfect effortless wing and is less dramatic than pure black. The felt tip is also very user friendly, precise, and is also really thin for those who prefer a skinnier wing. Overall, I would definitely purchase this item again and would recommend it to others."

Product Size:0.41-ounce eyeliner pen

Shades Available:Four (Glossy Black, Syrup Brown,Emerald Green, Shadowy Green, and More)

Pros:Offers up to 24 hours of waterproof wear that lasts all day without fading or smudging

Cons:Formula dries out quickly between uses

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Best Multipurpose Formula: Violette_FR Yeux Paint Liquid Eyeshadow and Eyeliner

Your search for the perfect multi-use eye makeup product to level up your makeup is over. Violette_FR's Yeux Paint has long dominated my makeup bag as one of the best products for creating the best natural-looking and bold eyeshadow and liner looks without spending too much time thinking about it. While there was a bit of a learning curve for it (I had to play a little with the applicator to see what each side of the brush was capable of), I've now gotten it down to a 't'.

Customer Review:"I bought Tout Doux the day it first launched and have loved it ever since. These shadows are pigmented! A little goes a long way, and they stay on all day. The applicator is beautifully shaped, with one side thinner than the other. It makes it super easy to use even as a liner. They're the best; can't wait to get more colors!"

Product Size:0.10-ounce liquid eyeshadow and eyeliner

Shades Available:17 (Dieu Bleu, Violette Sauvage, Caramel Chaud, Ciel du Nuit, and more)

Pros:This multipurpose formula is offered in a number of different shades and finishes

Cons:Applicator is somewhat wide and tricky to use when a fine line is desired

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How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best liquid eyeliners, we leaned heavily on firsthand testing and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including shade range, product size, and customer reviews. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details.

Why Trust Who What Wear?

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.