Best Waterproof Eyeliner | CBS 42

Which waterproof eyeliner is the best?

We’ve all been there: you take the time to get your makeup perfect for a special occasion, and about an hour later you catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror and discover your eyeliner has smeared puddles on the outer edges corner of the eye.

Whether you’re preparing for an important event or a hot day, waterproof eyeliner is a must-have for certain occasions. If you’re looking for one that will last and won’t break the bank, Charity Cosmetics Badgal Bang! 24 hour waterproof eyeliner is the first choice.

What you should know before buying a waterproof eyeliner

The look you want to achieve

Liquid eyeliner comes in stick and liquid forms. Liquid creates sharp lines that are great for cat eyes and other dramatic looks, while Pencil is more blendable and suitable for smoky eye looks.

Shimmer vs Matte

Waterproof eyeliners, especially liquid ones, come in both varieties, each achieving its own unique look. A shimmery eyeliner will add some whimsy and flair to your eye makeup, while a matte eyeliner can serve as a base for a more subtle, blended look. Whatever you choose, remember that by choosing a waterproof eyeliner, you’re creating a look that lasts.

The condition of your eyelashes

Although waterproof eyeliner is applied to your lids, not your lashes, it still comes close enough that regular wear could affect the condition of your lashes. The chemical used to waterproof eyeliner is often dimethicone, which can have a drying effect on lashes. If you tend to have brittle lashes that fall out or break easily, use waterproof eyeliner sparingly and gently remove at the end of the day.

applicator types

Liquid eyeliner wands can draw a precise line if you have a steady hand. But most of us have found our hand to twitch during application, creating a squiggle of liquid liner that seems impossible to correct.

  • If you don’t want to start over, Consider an eyeliner stencil when applying liquid (even a piece of dampened clear tape will do).
  • If you want to control the consistency of the liquid and its saturation on the applicator, choose a gel pot that you can apply with a brush.
  • If you find that liquid opens up too much room for error, opt for a pencil applicator instead.

What you should look for in a high-quality waterproof eyeliner

color saturation

Waterproof eyeliners tend to be solid and opaque, but not all. If you want a softer look, you may want to find a liner with some transparency for ultimate blendability. On the other hand, if you want a dramatic look, you should definitely find a highly color-saturated liner.

dry season

Waterproof eyeliner gives you a window after application to correct blemishes and smooth out lines.

  • If you want to apply it and go, Look for a quick-drying liner.
  • If you prefer more mixability and the ability to fix stains, look for a liner that takes longer to dry.
  • If you get the slow drying variety, Note that you must avoid touching the area any longer, or blot it when you’re done.

The ability to keep up with your lifestyle

Not all waterproof eyeliners are created equal. Some stand up to natural use, like the heat and grease that builds up near your eyes on a hot day. Some are truly waterproof, the kind you can wear while swimming. These are more durable but also harder on the eyes, so find out how much staying power you need to keep your look fresh.

How much you can spend on waterproof eyeliner

There is a wide range of waterproof eyeliners to choose from. You can pay as little as $8 for a drugstore brand. A premium department store variety with moisturizing ingredients can cost $20 to $30.

Frequently asked questions about waterproof eyeliner

How do I remove waterproof eyeliner?

A Removing waterproof eyeliner is key to keeping the skin around the eyes and lashes healthy. Since its waterproof consistency is achieved with strong chemicals, you don’t want to fall asleep with waterproof eyeliner on. And because it’s waterproof, it takes more than a simple face wash to get it off.

The key to removal is an oil-based product. Choose a special makeup remover or micellar water and a cotton pad. You may have to rub the area to get all of the eyeliner off, but be careful. After removing all of the liner and makeup around it, wash the area to remove any residue of the remover.

My waterproof eyeliner keeps smudging. How do I stop this?

A Since the only thing that will remove waterproof eyeliner is an oil-based product, any oil it comes in contact with can cause it to run. It is waterproof, not oil proof. To prevent this, apply to clean, freshly washed skin without an oil-based foundation. Dry thoroughly after application. If you’re going to take it really long, consider a fixing spray that will seal in the color.

What is the best waterproof eyeliner to buy?

Top waterproof eyeliner

Charity Cosmetics Badgal Bang! 24 hour waterproof eyeliner

What you need to know: This full coverage, truly waterproof eyeliner glides on smoothly and stays put.

What you will love: The deep color saturation lets you achieve the look you want. It comes in four color options (jet black, dark brown, dark purple and midnight blue) and offers versatility for the looks you want.

What you should consider: Since this isn’t a liquid, it can take a steady hand to create a really sharp line for a cat’s eye.

Where to buy: Sold by Sephora

Great waterproof eyeliner for the money

Elf Cosmetics Intense H20 Proof Eyeliner Pencil

Elf Cosmetics Intense H20 Proof Eyeliner Pencil

What you need to know: This truly waterproof option puts you in control of a liquid eyeliner.

What you will love: This deep, matte color applies thickly and dries relatively quickly for the perfect cat eye.

What you should consider: This waterproof eyeliner takes its job seriously and is difficult to remove. If you decide to do this, make sure you have a good makeup remover.

Where to buy: Sold by Ultimate beauty

It’s worth trying

Mac Pro Longwear Fluidline

Mac Pro Longwear Fluidline

What you need to know: This prestige brand creates beautiful shades and quality products and this eye color gel pot lives up to the brand’s standards.

What you will love: This gel is a pot of paint that you apply with a brush. It gives you the long wear of a waterproof eyeliner with a softer, silkier feel that doesn’t feel wet like a liquid eyeliner.

What you should consider: These colors can also be used as eyebrow gels, although the range of shades makes this only possible for those with darker brows (or who want a dramatic dark brow look).

Where to buy: Sold by Ultimate beauty

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Maria Andre writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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