We have tried numerous eyeliners (only to be disappointed by many), but these 9 are truly exceptional.
It wasn't until I started writing this article that I truly understood how polarizing eyeliner can be as a beauty product. For every enthusiastic review I received from a member of the Who What Wear UK team praising their favorite formula, there were two who hesitated to admit that they rarely used eyeliner, lacked confidence in applying it, or, in one instance, had never worn it at all. There's nothing wrong with these admissions—after all, the beauty of makeup lies in its adaptability to individual tastes, skill levels, and styles. However, it made me realize that eyeliner is often misunderstood. Intrigued by this, I reached out to makeup artist Ruby Hammer, an expert on eyeliner, to get her perspective. A seasoned professional in the beauty industry, Hammer has worked with high-profile celebs like Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss, and she launched her own makeup line in 2019, which features one of the best liquid eyeliners I've ever tried.
"Eyeliner has never fallen out of fashion,” Hammer clarified when I asked about its enduring popularity. “There are always different options available depending on your desired look and current trends."
“All types of eyeliner, whether liquid, pencil, or gel, provide definition and add drama and strength to the eyes,” she elaborated. “Liquid liner offers the boldest definition, whether applied thickly or as a kitten wing, while pencils are more suitable for subtle looks or easy blending into a smokey eye.” She added, “Pencils also work well on the waterline for a sultry effect. If you're new to eyeliner, I suggest beginning with a pencil along the lash line as it's easier to blend or smudge while still having an impact. Remember to look straight into the mirror—avoid making odd faces or pulling at the skin. And always have a few Q-tips handy for any touch-ups.”
In essence, if you’ve struggled with mastering eyeliner in the past, there's a solution and technique for everyone. To showcase this, I’ve compiled a selection of the best eyeliners as chosen by the Who What Wear UK team. The list contains eyeliner pencils and gel formulas in classic black, brown, and even burgundy shades, offering a diverse range to suit various preferences. So whether you're an avid eyeliner user searching for a new favorite or a beginner looking to incorporate it into your routine, there’s bound to be an option for you.
**The 9 Best Eyeliners We've Ever Tried**
**The best eyeliner overall:** Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner (£32)
**The best eyeliner pencil:** Lisa Eldridge Beauty Seamless Glide Eye Pencil (£24)
**The best gel eyeliner:** Hourglass Voyeur Waterproof Gel Liner (£28)
**The best liquid eyeliner:** Vieve Power Ink Liner (£23)
**The best brown eyeliner:** Charlotte Tilbury Rock N Kohl (£25)
1. **Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner**
*The best overall eyeliner*
*Shades: 21*
*Finish: Satin*
Why we love it: Victoria Beckham's beauty line boasts numerous standout products, but this eyeliner is one of the most frequently praised. It’s creamy, blendable, and richly pigmented, allowing for a variety of eyeliner looks, from edgy to sleek. With 21 colors available, the versatility of these liners is impressive.
*Editor Review:* Who What Wear UK Beauty Director, Shannon Lawlor: “There is honestly no eyeliner out there that compares to Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner—especially in Cocoa. This brown shade is universally flattering. It can create a soft smokey eye or simply enhance the lash line, depending on personal preference. VB’s makeup artist shared that this is also her go-to daily eyeliner, and it's clear why. It has exceptional color payoff, blends beautifully, and pairs well with any makeup look. For those who aren't adept at eyeliner application, this product is perfect for you.”
*Pros:* Creamy formula, wide shade range
2. **Dior Diorshow Liquid Liner**
*The best luxury eyeliner*
*Shades: 10*
*Finish: Satin*
Why we love it: This pen-style liquid liner by Dior is truly top-tier. With a fine, precise tip and smooth ink flow, it delivers rich color with every stroke.
*Editor Review:* Who What Wear UK Junior Beauty Editor, Grace Lindsay: “I love eyeliner and always reach for a liquid formula, as it's the easiest for achieving a perfect winged look. I’ve tried numerous liquid eyeliners, but my favorite is Dior Diorshow Liquid Liner in Satin Brown. It's worth the investment. The super fine nib allows for precision, and the pigmented formula means I can achieve my desired look effortlessly. Plus, the soft brown shade suits me better than harsh black.”
*Pros:* Precise nib, wide shade range
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We have tried numerous eyeliners (only to be disappointed by many), but these 9 are truly exceptional.
Selected by the editors of Who What Wear UK.
