Elevate Your Look with the Best Gel Eyeliners

Ready to lift your eye game? This quick guide shows how top picks bridge the gap between liquid precision and pencil ease.

These formulas offer a creamy glide, a short blend window, and lock-down wear that can last up to 12 hours. Editors and makeup artists praise choices like Kulfi Underlined Kajal, Urban Decay 24/7, Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel, and waterproof standouts such as Stila Stay All Day Smudge & Set.

Expect a roundup that helps you find the best fit for your eyes, routine, and preferred finish—from matte black liners to metallic pops. We’ll judge each product on pigment saturation, comfort, precision along the lash line, and transfer resistance.

Whether you want crisp wings, smoky lines, tightlining, or a defined lower lash line, this guide covers pots, pencils, and mechanical formats across a wide range of shades and finishes.

Key Takeaways

• Top products blend control and blendability for long wear.
• Look for creamy glide, a forgiving set time, and strong pigment.
• Options include luxury splurges and budget standouts that overdeliver.
• Use cases: wings, smoky lids, tightlining, and lower lash definition.
• Shade range and finish variety help match your desired color story.

Why Gel Eyeliners Are the Sweet Spot Between Liquid and Pencil

Think of this formula as the best of both worlds: easy blending at first, then a clean, lasting line. The texture gives the smooth glide of a cream and the control of a pencil for sharp work.

Blend, blur, then set: creamy control with hours of wear

A gel eyeliner opens with a short smudge window—just a few seconds—to blur or smoke the edge before it sets. That brief time makes smoky looks and soft fades easy without a messy liquid liner routine.

The formula firms quickly and stays put through a workday. You get creamy application that resists migrating and refuses to fade for many hours.

Who they’re for: precise wings, smoky lines, and tightlining

These liners suit tight, lash-hugging definition, graphic wings, and diffused lower-line looks. They’re more forgiving than a liquid but deliver crisper results than a classic pencil once set.

• Pairs well with angled or fine liner brushes for pots.
• Sharpened tips on a pencil give precise control.
• Finish options—from matte to shimmer—let you build intensity or keep soft focus.

Editors’ Top Picks Right Now

Editors narrowed down three standouts that combine control, color, and long wear for every routine. Each pick balances payoff, comfort, and ease of use so you can choose by application style or finish preference.

Best Overall Pot: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner — stays put for hours

Bobbi Brown is the precision pick. This cult potted product gives crisp lines when used with a brush and truly stays put from morning to night.

Perfect for brush lovers who want pro-level control and sharp wings.

Best Overall Pencil: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner — 38 shades

24/7 Glide-On by decay 24/7 is the shade leader. It offers 38 waterproof shades across matte, satin, glitter, metallic, and shimmer finishes.

Ideal for color enthusiasts who want grab-and-go convenience and creative looks.

Best Formula Feel: Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide — liquid-like finish

PermaGel lays down rich pigment and dries to a liquid-like finish in soft matte or metallic. Editors note about eight-hour wear and no drag during application.

This suits high-pigment devotees seeking dramatic depth with smooth laydown.

“These editor picks balance payoff, control, and comfort for varied application styles.”

• Tip: Choose a matte black for maximum intensity or a soft brown for daily definition.
• Pro-level control (pot) versus grab-and-go convenience (pencils).
• All three are reported to stay put for hours in editor testing and review rounds.

The Best Gel Eyeliners for Waterproof, No-Smudge Wear

Waterproof picks mean worry-free definition that rides out sweat, rain, and long commutes.

Stila Stay All Day Smudge & Set stands out for a tiny, precise tip that reaches every lash crevice. It feels lightweight and resists irritation while delivering color that stays put through a busy day.

Other top waterproof performers

Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes gives a blendable, waterproof formula that layers to opaque wings or sheers into a smoked edge.

ONE/SIZE Point Made is kohl-like and intensely pigmented—ideal for smoky looks that lock in over long days and late nights.

Kosas Soulgazer is cited as a best waterproof gel pick for intensity and durability against sweat and tears.

• These products offer true no-smudge performance through humid commutes and long hours.
• Shade flexibility (Stila includes greens, purples, blues, and oranges) expands waterproof looks beyond neutrals.
• Pair waterproof picks with an oil-based remover to cleanse without tugging the skin.
• Use short strokes along the lash line and build pigment gradually for control with smudge-resistant formulas.

Pot vs. Pencil vs. Mechanical Gel: Which Type Fits Your Routine?

From pots and pencils to slim mechanical tips, the tool you choose shapes the look and speed of your eye routine.

Potted formulas pair with an angled or fine brush to deliver tailored thickness and ultra-clean wings. Bobbi Brown’s pot is a go-to for smooth payoff and long-lasting lines when used with a steady brush.

Classic pencil formats, like Urban Decay 24/7 and ILIA Clean Line, offer the fastest route to creamy glide along the lash line. They tug less and work well for daily definition or quick touch-ups.

Mechanical gel options such as Hourglass 1.5MM give micro-precision for tightlining and inner-corner detail. Use gentle pressure—these tips can break under force but excel at tiny, controlled strokes.

• Pots: matte-leaning control; keep lids tight to avoid drying.
• Pencils: range from matte to shimmer; sharpen or twist as needed.
• Mechanical: easy upkeep; press softly to prevent snapping.

Choose by routine speed, desired line weight, and comfort with tools. For versatility, build a hybrid kit: pot for statement wings, pencil for daily application, and mechanical for tight spaces. A light set with matching shadow will extend wear and refine the finish.

Best Gel for the Waterline and Lash Line Definition

For inner-rim definition and sharp lash-line accents, choose formulas built to last where it matters most.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On earns top marks for waterline wear. Its creamy, waterproof formula comes in 38 shades and performs on the inner rim without tugging. Many editors note it truly stays put through humidity and long days.

Why pros reach for it

Choose 24/7 Glide-On when you want durability plus a wide palette to match any look. The texture glides smoothly and resists smearing on the waterline and lower lash line.

Lancôme Drama Liqui-Pencil for liquid-like depth

Lancôme’s option offers saturated, liquid-like finish that keeps inner rims rich and defined. Note: sharpening can be tricky, so work in short, gentle passes to avoid breakage or irritation.

• Recommend Urban Decay 24/7 for waterline durability and shade variety.
• Use Lancôme Drama Liqui-Pencil for intense, liquid-like depth on the rim.
• Consider MAC Colour Excess as an alternative for very long waterline wear (up to 12 hours).
• Dry the waterline with a cotton swab before application to help the line stay put longer.
• Build color with short, gentle strokes to avoid inner-eye irritation.
• Waterproof pencils are generally the safest bet for inner-rim longevity; pair with a tightline on the upper lid to make lashes look fuller.
• Shade choice matters: black adds drama; brown softens the effect for daytime looks.

For more picks and how to choose the best gel eyeliners for waterline work, see our full guide to the best gel eyeliners.

For Sensitive Eyes: Gentle, High-Pigment Gel Picks

If your eyes react easily, prioritize formulas that pair high pigment with soothing, non-tug application. Comfort matters as much as color when skin is delicate or prone to tearing.

ILIA Clean Line Gel Eyeliner — minimal tug, easy glide

ILIA Clean Line is a top choice for sensitive users. The texture glides smoothly and avoids pulling, which helps reduce irritation during application.

Note: it can smudge slightly, so testers recommend setting in place for longer wear.

• Kulfi Underlined Kajal includes vitamin E and aloe and sets in about 30 seconds, making it waterline-friendly and kind to skin.
• Avoid aggressive rubbing or heavy layering to limit flakes and irritation on the delicate lash area.
• Use hypoallergenic removers and gentle cleansing to protect the eye area when you take makeup off.

Pro tip: prep the waterline with a dry cotton swab and set the line with a matching powder or black shadow to reduce transfer and boost longevity.

Soft browns and satiny finishes often read gentler on the eyes than stark matte black. Test any new product on the outer hand first, then along the outer lash line before working the waterline.

Shade Range and Finishes: From Matte Black to Metallic Pops

Shade depth and finish type determine how a line catches light, deepens lashes, or lifts the eye. Choose by the mood you want: subtle daytime warmth or bold, stage-ready shimmer.

Haus Labs, MAC, and wide-ranging color options

Haus Labs Optic Intensity offers 18 colors across shimmer, matte, and metallic finishes with strong longevity for color-forward looks.

MAC Colour Excess delivers punchy hues and can last up to 12 hours on the waterline, ideal for long-wear statements.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On expands choice further with 38 shades and finishes, making it easy to find exact tones for any palette.

Matte, satin, shimmer, metallic: choosing the right finish

Compare finish types: matte for graphic sharpness, shimmer for subtle light, and metallic for bold dimension.

• Pairing idea: matte wing with a metallic inner corner for contrast.
• Use satin brown for daytime softness or a cool-toned shade to make blue eyes pop.
• Brighter shades benefit from a primer on oily lids to prevent fading.
• Always swatch in-store when possible to check true payoff and dry-down feel.

Luxury Standouts for Pro-Level Results

When precision and endurance matter, luxury pencils deliver reliable color and pro-grade wear.

Tom Ford Gel Eyeliner Pencil Cream is the top pick for oily lids and humid conditions. Users report no budging after 12–15 hours, making it ideal for long shoots or humid travel days.

Its rich texture holds a crisp line without sliding on oily skin. Expect elevated packaging and a higher price for that staying power and refined finish.

Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel — deep pigment, fast set

PermaGel lays down intensely pigmented color that sets fast and mimics a liquid finish in pencil form. Smudge quickly if you want smoky edges, then let it lock.

• Pro-level tools for events and long workdays: clean lines, consistent wear.
• Trade-off: premium cost for texture, packaging, and longevity.
• Tip: work one eye at a time with fast-setting formulas to finish blending before they set.
• Pair with a fine-tipped brush to refine edges and use an oil-control primer on the lid to optimize wear.

Final note: Think of these as special-occasion insurance when you need zero movement under hot lights or long hours on set.

Budget-Friendly Gel Liners That Overdeliver

Smart shoppers pick budget picks that hold up through commutes and long days. These affordable options give crisp color and easy application without breaking the bank.

Maybelline Eye Studio Gel

Maybelline’s pot delivers a true gel experience at a fraction of prestige prices. It pairs well with an angled brush for clean wings and steady daily wear.

Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner Pencil

Revlon offers a creamy pencil with a built-in blender. Beginners will like the smudge tool for smoky looks and the forgiving glide along the lash line.

Sephora Collection 12 Hour Contour Pencil

Sephora’s pencil claims 12-hour wear and ships 20+ shades across matte, glitter, and shimmer finishes. It’s a versatile, wallet-friendly product for day-to-night makeup.

• Stock a dark neutral and a pop color to stretch your kit.
• Close caps tightly and sharpen periodically to keep crisp lines.
• Pair budget picks with a primer or a matching powder shadow to lock pigment through the day.

Long-Wear, Hours Wear: What to Expect from Top Formulas

A smooth start and a fast set are the twin traits that make some liners reliable for an 8–12 hour day.

Top formulas usually give a creamy first pass that glides on like butter, then firms quickly to resist smudging and transfer. In reviewers’ tests, the best performers hold steady for eight hours and can reach 12 when lids are prepped properly.

12-hour performance tests and creamy-to-set behavior

Expect realistic targets: plan for 8–12 hours wear if you prime, set lightly, and avoid heavy oils on the lid. Bobbi Brown’s potted product and Urban Decay 24/7 are often cited for all-day performance in independent review rounds.

How it works: a creamy opening allows smooth application without tugging on delicate eyes. A fast set then locks the line so it does not skip or shear off your lash line during the day.

Prep, technique, and tracking for longer hours wear

Prime oily or hooded lids, then use a minimal translucent powder to cut excess oil. Build color in thin layers rather than one heavy pass; layered lines dry more reliably and resist creasing.

• Waterline note: longevity varies by tear production—waterproof pencils generally last longer there.
• Evaluate end-of-day fading versus smudging to choose the right finish for your routine.
• Track a full day of wear to fine-tune primer, application, and removal steps.

“A thin, layered approach often outlasts a single heavy pass—test over full days to know what works for your eyes.”

For deeper product comparisons and editor notes on long-wear picks, see our curated review of top picks.

Application Techniques: Cat Eye, Tightline, and Smoky Wing

Mastering application techniques helps you get crisp wings, dense lashes, and a smoky fade with less fuss.

Start at the middle, connect inward, then flick out. Begin your line at the center of the lid to stabilize the stroke. Draw outward to the corner, then link a short inner-corner pass to close the gap.

For a balanced cat eye, follow the angle of the lower lash line when you sketch the outward flick. Light sketches first, then build opacity, give you cleaner symmetry.

Smudge window: how long you have before set

Most formulas give about 10–30 seconds of workable time. Smudge quickly within that window to blur edges for smoky wings.

If your product sets fast, work one eye at a time. Use a thin angled or fine liner brush to refine edges while still workable.

Pro tips for control and finish

• Start mid-eye to stabilize the stroke and connect inward for symmetry.
• Map the wing with a light sketch, then build color in short strokes.
• Tightline the upper rim to make lashes look denser without a visible line.
• Use small, controlled strokes rather than one sweep on textured skin.
• Experiment with pressure to vary thickness and modulation of the finish.

Final note: Practice these steps with a pencil or pot, then move to your favorite gel eyeliner for consistent, pro-level results in less time.

Brush and Tool Guide for Gel Liner Precision

Tools make the difference: the right brush or tip turns a good line into a pro-level finish. Choose implements that match your favored product and the look you want to create.

Angled brush vs. fine liner brush for a crisp line

Angled brushes hug the lash line and help you build a soft, controlled wing. They excel with pots and creamy pencils for lash-near definition.

Fine liner brushes deliver ultra-thin strokes and sharp flicks. Use them for graphic wings and precise inner-corner work.

Tip: favor synthetic, firm bristles for crisp edges and consistent pickup from pots and pans.

Sharpeners and mechanical gel care to avoid breakage

Mechanical gel tips such as Hourglass 1.5MM need gentle pressure to avoid snapping micro cores. If you use sharpenable pencils like Lancôme, pick a compatible sharpener for a clean point.

• Keep pot lids tightly closed to prevent drying and texture change.
• Clean brushes regularly to avoid drag and protect the delicate skin around the eye.
• Combine a brush + pencil workflow: sculpt with a brush, fill with a pencil for speed and control.
• Test strokes on the back of the hand to calibrate pressure before working your lid.

Gel Eyeliners

Prep, map, and seal: three simple steps makeup artists use for all-day wear.

Start by mattifying oily lids with a lightweight primer. A primed base cuts oil transfer and keeps color from migrating. Then map your line with tiny dots or short dashes to stay symmetrical.

How makeup artists prep lids, set lines, and prevent smudging

Trace the traced path with your preferred gel, using an angled or fine brush for control.

Immediately press a matching shadow along the wet line to seal pigment into the lid. That step extends wear through a long event or a busy day.

• Seal: finish with a light mist of setting spray for event-length hold.
• Select: use waterproof formula only where needed—waterline or humid days.
• Remove: oil-based cleansers protect the delicate skin at night.
• Touch-up: clean edges with a cotton swab and micellar water, then re-layer and set.

Final note: consistent pro prep turns a good liner into a fail-safe, all-day performer.

Product Spotlight: Jones Road, Kulfi, and MAC Gel Innovations

Meet three key innovations that deliver control, conditioning, and long-lasting payoff for every routine.

Jones Road Gel Liner pot — creamy control with a tight lid

Jones Road is for pot purists who want a malleable texture and pro-level control. Pair it with an angled or fine brush to sculpt crisp wings and smooth lash-hugging lines.

Tip: keep the lid tightly closed to prevent drying and preserve a workable surface over time.

Kulfi Underlined Kajal — conditioning waterline performer

Kulfi Underlined Kajal glides on and sets in about 30 seconds. Enriched with vitamin E and aloe, it balances blendability with staying power on the waterline and lower rim.

Use it when you want comfort and gentle wear for sensitive eyes.

MAC Fluidline & Colour Excess — liner and color stories

MAC splits into two uses: Fluidline doubles as a liner and brow filler for precise definition. Colour Excess delivers bold shades with up to 12-hour waterline wear for vivid looks.

Choose Fluidline for tailored lining and Colour Excess when you need a saturated finish that lasts through the day.

• Jones Road: best for graphic wings and brush-driven control.
• Kulfi: ideal for comfortable waterlines and quick set times.
• MAC: picks for both precise liner work and long-wearing color play.
• Tool tip: pair pots with angled brushes; sharpen pencils for crisp points; smudge before set for smoky looks.

“These innovations reflect current needs: comfort, vibrant payoff, and reliable wear.”

Final note: test shades in different finishes to match your lighting and desired impact. Each product fills a clear role in a modern beauty kit.

Gel vs. Liquid Liner vs. Eyeliner Pencil: When to Use Each

Match product to purpose: some lines demand precision, others need forgiveness and blendability.

Gel sits between pencil and liquid: it lets you blend, refine, then lock a durable line. A good gel eyeliner gives creamy control and a short smudge window so you can shape a smoky or sharp look before it sets.

Liquid liner is the choice for ultra-sharp wings and high-gloss finishes. It delivers razor-edged definition but leaves less room for correction, so work slowly or use tape guides for symmetry.

Classic pencils are the most user-friendly. An eyeliner pencil is fast, forgiving, and ideal for soft, smudged styles. Set pencils with a matching shadow if you need extra staying power.

• Match to skin: use primers with gels and liquids for oily lids; choose softer pencils for drier skin.
• Compare finish: liquids trend glossy or matte; gel covers matte-to-metallic; pencils span satin to matte.
• Scenario picks: liquid for events with flash, gel for daily versatility, pencil for quick smoky transitions.
• Technique tip: start at mid-eye, connect inward, then angle outward for the wing; use angled or fine brushes for control.

“Combine methods: pencil sketch, gel refine, and liquid for the final crisp tip to perfect a wing.”

Try products on your eye and note removal needs. Comfort and how a product comes off should influence your everyday staple as much as finish and hold.

Conclusion

Wrapped in creamy control and quick set times, the right liner lifts every look without extra fuss.

Why they earn a spot: these formulas start blendable, then lock for a full day of wear. Editors favor Bobbi Brown, Urban Decay 24/7, Pat McGrath PermaGel, Stila Stay All Day, and MAC Colour Excess for comfort, shade range, and lasting payoff.

Choose by format—pot, pencil, or mechanical—based on speed and precision. Prime lids, apply in short strokes, and set with powder to keep lines clean.

Build a small kit: a matte neutral, a waterproof performer, and a statement color. The right gel eyeliner, finish, and technique deliver polished definition that stays put.