Summer means hotter days, humidity, and the constant risk of makeup smudging or fading. One product that often lets us down during this season is eyeliner. Whether it’s from sweat, tears, or a simple long day, smudged eyeliner is a common issue that many of us face. Thankfully, waterproof eyeliners are a game-changer. These products allow you to create bold, beautiful eyes that stay in place, no matter what.
I’ll walk you through 10 of the best waterproof eyeliners that you can rely on to keep your eyes looking fresh throughout the day—whether you’re lounging by the pool or enduring a summer heatwave. Along with recommendations for specific products, I’ll share which skin types and eye shapes they’re best for, how to apply them, and where to buy them.
1. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
Why We Love It:
Urban Decay’s 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil is one of the most famous waterproof eyeliners in the beauty world. With its creamy, smooth texture, it’s super easy to apply, and it stays put for hours. Available in a variety of shades, from matte black to vibrant pops of color, this eyeliner can be worn on both the upper lash line and the waterline.
Best For:
- Skin Types: Works well for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
- Eye Shapes: Suitable for all eye shapes, especially those with smaller or hooded eyes due to its precise application.
- Application Tip: Glide the pencil along the lash line for a bold look, or smudge it with a brush for a smoky effect.
Where to Buy:
Available at Sephora and Ulta Beauty.
2. Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
Why We Love It:
Stila’s Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner has a precision tip that allows for incredibly sharp, defined lines that won’t budge. The formula is smudge-proof and perfect for creating cat eyes or graphic liners. It dries quickly, ensuring it won’t transfer or fade throughout the day.
Best For:
- Skin Types: Ideal for oily and combination skin types as it won’t smudge or transfer.
- Eye Shapes: Great for those with hooded eyes, as the fine tip allows for detailed application that won’t transfer to the crease.
- Application Tip: Use the ultra-fine tip for a thin, precise line or layer it for a more dramatic look.
Where to Buy:
Available at Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and Stila’s Official Website.
3. Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner
Why We Love It:
Maybelline’s Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner is one of the best gel eyeliners for long-lasting wear. The creamy gel glides on smoothly, and it stays in place all day without smudging or fading. It comes with a brush, making it perfect for creating both bold and fine lines.
Best For:
- Skin Types: Works great for all skin types, particularly dry and sensitive skin, due to its creamy texture.
- Eye Shapes: Perfect for those with larger eyes or deep-set eyes who want a bold, defined line.
- Application Tip: Use the included brush to apply the gel directly to the lash line and smudge it for a smoky look if desired.
Where to Buy:
Available at Target, Walmart, and Ulta Beauty.
4. Kat Von D Tattoo Liner
Why We Love It:
Kat Von D’s Tattoo Liner is a cult favorite for a reason. With its ultra-fine tip and waterproof formula, this eyeliner gives you precise lines that stay in place all day. Whether you want a soft wing or a bold cat eye, this product delivers long-lasting results.
Best For:
- Skin Types: Suitable for all skin types, particularly oily skin due to its matte finish.
- Eye Shapes: Excellent for those with almond-shaped eyes, as it allows for precision and control.
- Application Tip: For a clean and sharp wing, lightly trace along the upper lash line and extend outward.
Where to Buy:
Available at Sephora, Kat Von D Beauty, and Ulta Beauty.
5. NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner
Why We Love It:
The NYX Epic Ink Liner offers the precision of a liquid liner with the durability of a waterproof formula. It features a flexible brush tip that glides across the lash line easily, making it perfect for creating bold or thin lines. This budget-friendly option is one of the best waterproof eyeliners for staying in place through long, hot days.
Best For:
- Skin Types: Works well for oily skin, as it resists smudging and transferring.
- Eye Shapes: Best for larger eyes or anyone who loves to create dramatic eyeliner looks.
- Application Tip: Start from the inner corner and apply a thin line, gradually building up the thickness as you go.
Where to Buy:
Available at Ulta Beauty, Target, and NYX Cosmetics.
6. Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Eyeliner
Why We Love It:
Too Faced’s Better Than Sex Waterproof Eyeliner is perfect for those who want volume and definition. The pencil is richly pigmented and glides smoothly without tugging. It’s also resistant to humidity, tears, and sweat, making it ideal for summer.
Best For:
- Skin Types: Works best for dry and normal skin types.
- Eye Shapes: Ideal for those with hooded or monolid eyes, as the pencil glides on without skipping.
- Application Tip: Apply a thick line along the top lashes for a bold, voluminous look or use it on the waterline for a dramatic effect.
Where to Buy:
Available at Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and Too Faced’s Official Website.
7. L’Oréal Paris Infallible The Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner
Why We Love It:
L’Oréal’s Infallible Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner is known for its long-wearing formula and ultra-fine tip that helps you create a precise line without any smudging or fading. The slim design makes it easy to handle and perfect for beginners.
Best For:
- Skin Types: Suitable for all skin types, especially those with oily eyelids.
- Eye Shapes: Ideal for those with smaller eyes who want a defined look without overloading the lash line.
- Application Tip: For a precise line, lightly tap the tip along the lash line and avoid pulling the skin.
Where to Buy:
Available at Target, Walmart, and Ulta Beauty.
8. Lancome Le Stylo Waterproof Eyeliner
Why We Love It:
Lancome’s Le Stylo Waterproof Eyeliner is a creamy, retractable pencil that delivers intense color and stays in place all day. It’s smudge-resistant, fade-proof, and waterproof, making it perfect for any weather or occasion.
Best For:
- Skin Types: Ideal for all skin types, including sensitive eyes.
- Eye Shapes: Great for all eye shapes, especially those with smaller eyes.
- Application Tip: Use short strokes to apply along the upper and lower lash lines for a natural yet defined look.
Where to Buy:
Available at Sephora, Nordstrom, and Lancome’s Official Website.
9. Tarte Sex Kitten Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
Why We Love It:
Tarte’s Sex Kitten Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner comes with a flexible felt-tip applicator that makes it easy to create sharp, clean lines. The formula is designed to resist smudging, so it’s perfect for hot summer days or special occasions.
Best For:
- Skin Types: Works well for oily to combination skin, as it resists smudging.
- Eye Shapes: Perfect for those with almond-shaped eyes who want a dramatic, elongated look.
- Application Tip: Apply in short strokes to avoid any skipping or uneven lines.
Where to Buy:
Available at Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and Tarte Cosmetics.
10. Fenty Beauty Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner
Why We Love It:
Rihanna’s Flyliner from Fenty Beauty is a long-wear, waterproof liquid eyeliner that provides deep, rich pigment with just one swipe. The precision tip makes it easy to create any look, from a thin line to a bold wing, and it won’t budge throughout the day.
Best For:
- Skin Types: Works well for all skin types, especially oily and combination.
- Eye Shapes: Suitable for all eye shapes, including hooded and monolid eyes.
- Application Tip: For a dramatic wing, use the precision tip to draw a straight line from the outer corner and flick it upward.
Where to Buy:
Available at Sephora, Fenty Beauty’s Official Website, and Harvey Nichols.
Say Goodbye to Smudged Eyeliner!
With the summer heat upon us, there’s no need to worry about your eyeliner smudging or fading. The 10 best waterproof eyeliners listed here are all formulated to stay put, ensuring that you can enjoy long-lasting, smudge-free eye makeup no matter what the day (or weather) throws your way. Whether you prefer a pencil, gel, or liquid formula, there’s a perfect option for every skin type, eye shape, and makeup look.
Which waterproof eyeliner are you excited to try? Let me know in the comments below!
