Finding the right eyeliner doesn’t mean you have to splurge on high-end brands or break the bank for something that might not even work the way you want. Some pretty great “dupes” out there are worth spending on, and they fit well within your budget. From smudge-proof liquids to creamy pencils, these are some of the best drugstore eyeliners that deliver professional results without costing you too much.
1. L.A. Girl Gel Pencil Eyeliner
This creamy, long-wearing pencil rivals Chanel’s formula at a fraction of the cost. Its hypoallergenic design suits sensitive skin; the pigment stays vibrant for hours. Priced at just $6, this gel-like formula delivers rich, intense color while gliding smoothly without tugging or skipping. It is ideal for precision application or blending into a sultry smokey eye.
Designed conveniently, the retractable pencil eliminates the need for a sharpener, making it perfect for on-the-go use.
2. Essence Extreme Lasting Waterproof Pencil
The Essence Extreme Lasting Waterproof Pencil is a budget-friendly gem with impressive performance for just $3.99. This ultra-smooth eye pencil glides effortlessly, providing intense pigmentation and a waterproof formula that lasts up to 16 hours without smudging. Ideal for bold graphic looks and subtle enhancements, it works beautifully on the waterline or lash line to brighten and define your eyes.
This eyeliner is vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens and preservatives. It is as gentle on your skin as it is on your wallet. Reviewers call it a “holy grail” for smoky eyes.
3. CoverGirl Bombshell Intensity Liner
This eyeliner has an inky-black pigment and tapered felt-tip applicator, giving you an effortless wing creation as the flexible nib adjusts to pressure for both thin lines and dramatic thickness. While some users report inconsistent formula performance (especially if you have oily lids), others praise its longevity and ease of use, with the compact design and shake-activated liquid formula ensuring smooth application. With a fine tip and intense pigment, this liner mimics high-end pens while only costing around $10.
4. Maybelline Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner
This eyeliner is quite a favorite among reviewers and is praised for its intense pigment and impressive staying power. It offers professional-level drama at a drugstore price. Its smooth, creamy texture glides effortlessly without tugging, delivering a matte black finish that resists smudging and fading for up to 24 hours.
While the included brush receives mixed reviews (some find it challenging for winged looks), the formula itself shines when applied with a precision brush. It allows for both sharp lines and smoky blends and is only $9.
5. L’Oréal Paris Flash Cat Eyeliner
This highly pigmented, waterproof formula glides smoothly for a sharp, luminous black finish that lasts without smudging, though users with oily lids should note occasional formula inconsistencies. Praised for its intense color payoff and smudge-resistant wear, this liner is ideal for achieving dramatic cat eyes. Some report ink bleeding during the application, but it is affordable at $10.
While the stencil provides a foolproof guide for creating symmetrical wings, experienced users may prefer a freehand application for more personalized shapes. Reviewers rave about its smudge-proof finish and included stencil for beginners.
6. Milani Stay Put Matte Liquid Liner
This quick-drying formula delivers a rich matte finish that stays flawless for up to 17 hours, resisting humidity, sweat, and smudging throughout the day. The ultra-thin felt tip applicator ensures precise application, making it easy to create everything from subtle lines to dramatic wings with controlled precision.
Available in multiple shades, including Black Matte and Espresso, this cruelty-free liner is ideal for both beginners and seasoned makeup enthusiasts. At only $10, it is a great dupe for Kat Von D’s iconic liner.
7. Revlon ColorStay Creme Gel Eyeliner
This eyeliner is a great MAC Fluidline dupe, as this smudge-proof gel glides smoothly with a brush for dramatic definition. It is ideal for creating sharp, graphic lines. Its standout feature is the built-in brush, cleverly designed to attach to the cap, making it perfect for on-the-go touch-ups without additional tools.
The waterproof formula promises up to 24 hours of smudge-proof wear, delivering bold, rich color that works for delicate lines and dramatic looks. This great eyeliner only costs a shocking $5.29, which is excellent for any wallet.
8. Maybelline Tattoo Studio Gel Pencil
This eyeliner has a creamy, smooth formula, that glides effortlessly across the lash line without tugging or skipping, delivering intense pigmentation in just one stroke. Its waterproof, smudge-resistant, and fade-resistant properties ensure your look stays flawless for hours, up to 36 hours, according to Maybelline.
It’s available in a wide range of shades, including classic black and vibrant hues, it caters to every mood and occasion. Plus, it’s ophthalmologist-tested and suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, making it a reliable option for all beauty enthusiasts.
9. Wet n Wild Kohl Crayon
This is a budget-friendly staple for eyeliner enthusiasts, offering smooth application and impressive pigmentation for just over $1. Its creamy formula glides effortlessly, making it ideal for creating precise lines or smudged, smoky looks. However, it is not smudge-proof and may require daily touch-ups, especially in humid conditions.
Despite these limitations, its rich color payoff and ease of use make it an excellent option for those seeking quality on a tight budget.
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