Striking the perfect balance between the traditional pencil and the (not so easy to apply) liquid, gel eyeliner is the versatile and low maintenance option that every kit needs. Gliding over the lids and waterline, these self-sharpening heroes are silicone based to create a precise line of intensely pigmented colour that applies effortlessly and refuses to smudge all day long.
Need help choosing your next makeup bag staple? Here’s our roundup of the best gel eyeliners.
Waterproof Gel Liner
Ever feel like you need to a degree to flawlessly apply liquid eyeliner? Well, Anastasia Beverly Hills Waterproof Gel Liner delivers the results of a liquid without the difficult application – phew. The twist up function makes this the perfect travel-friendly option for finishing off your eye looks in the car, on the bus, or any other weird place you find yourself applying your liner (no judgement).
L.A. Girl Shockwave Neon Liner
If you’re looking to experiment with colour, L.A. Girl Shockwave Neon Liner is a good place to start. Available in five electric neon shades and a more traditional black hue, this creamy gel liner sweeps seamlessly over the eye area and stays put for up to 16 (!) hours. We’ll take one in every colour, please.
INGLOT Cosmetics AMC Gel Liner
Hayfever sufferers and serial eye rubbers can call off the search party, INGLOT Cosmetics AMC Gel Liner is the waterproof and hypoallergenic gel liner you’ve been waiting for. Drying in seconds, the smudge-proof formula is super pigmented, so you only need one swipe to achieve that pro-level jet black finish.
Melt Cosmetics Gel Liner
Potted liners may have received bad press in the past due to the skill level and precision required, but Melt Cosmetics Gel Liner is here to prove that the right one can transform beginner to expert in no time. Dip your favourite liner brush into the silky gel formula and swipe across the lash line to create a range of killer eye looks.
Stila Smudge Pot
Stila Smudge Pot is exactly what you need if a smoky vibe is your thing. Versatile and long-lasting, this liner and shadow hybrid can be used to frame your look with razor sharp lines or smudged out and blended in for a soft and sultry look.