While there are a lot of things we’re uncertain about in life — Yanny or Laurel? 401K or Roth IRA? Tequila or vodka? — there’s one thing we’re 100% sure of: Liquid eyeliner is difficult as hell to apply. Whether you’re trying to make sure that both lids match or attempting to suck less at a cat-eye, eyeliner is often the most frustrating part of putting on makeup. So, for a makeup product that gives us all sorts of trouble, should we really be bending our bank accounts to add more to our collection? We think not.
That’s where drugstore liners come in. Just as effective as more expensive options but cheaper than your Uber X ride home, these are the best liquid eyeliners in the drugstore aisles that will actually hopefully give you the perfect cat-eye every time.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
The size of your line, from thin to thick, depends on the angle you hold this waterproof pencil — turn it to the side for a bold cat-eye, or point it straight to get a line that’s skinny and precise. Either way, holding it is effortless (even if you have butter fingers) with the easy-grip handle.
Milani Eye Tech Extreme Liquid Eye Liner , $4.79, available at Target
If you’re looking to have fun with your liner, this is the perfect option for you. This gold, metallic liner packs pigment, so you won’t have to go over your lines again and again.
Wet n Wild MegaLiner Liquid Eyeliner-Gilded Wings, $2.99, available at Wet n Wild
Those with sensitive eyes might avoid eyeliner altogether, but this formula is fragrance-free, which minimizes the chances of irritation. It also has an ultra-fine tip that makes drawing a cat-eye easier.
Maybelline Eye Studio Master Precise Eyeliner, $5.99, available at Target
Playing with color doesn’t necessarily mean you have to go neon. Sidestep basic black and go with a navy blue liner, like this one from Revlon. The thin tip ensures that there are absolutely no streaks.
Revlon colorstay skinny liquid liner, $5.97, available at Walmart
One look at all the 5-star ratings for this $7 liner, and you’ll see that the product is loved for its beginner-proof application, the opaque pigment, and the smudge-free finish. One review says it all: "I even fell asleep with it on, and it was still good when I woke up."
NYX Professional Makeup NYX Professional Makeup Matte Liquid Liner, $6.99, available at walgreens.com
This liquid eyeliner is all about flexibility. The tip curves to your eye for a tight-line look, so there’s no need to fill in that see-through spot near your lashline (you know exactly what we’re talking about).
No7 Stay Perfect Liquid Eyeliner, $9.99, available at walgreens.com
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
27 Drugstore Makeup Products That Will Definitely Sell Out In 2019
Glossier Just Announced Some Major — & Mysterious — News
The 7 Best Brands For Makeup That Won’t Piss Off Sensitive Skin
Source: Refinery29 – Thatiana Diaz