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If you’re looking for the best eyeliner for beginners, the right pick can make all the difference between a smooth first attempt and a frustrating makeup session. The products in this roundup are chosen from a mix of pencils, liquid liners, gel formulas, and beginner-friendly tools, so you can find an option that matches your comfort level, skill, and preferred look.
When selecting from this list, pay close attention to the eyeliner type, ease of application, and wear characteristics. Beginners often do best with formulas that glide on smoothly, retractable or mechanical designs that don’t require sharpening, and applicators like felt tips or stamps that offer more control.
Let’s get started!
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| NYX Epic Ink Liner | Best Overall | Buy |
| Revlon ColorStay Pencil | Best Value Pencil | Buy |
| 2CHILL Eyeliner Stamp | Best for Easy Wings | Buy |
Best Eyeliner For Beginners
1. Best Overall: NYX Epic Ink Liner
- Waterproof Matte Liquid Eyeliner: Get the perfect long lasting cat eye look with NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink eyeliner, with a matte black finish
- Precise Tip: Our ultra precise tip is flexible and Easy to Use; Every stroke is unbelievably fluid for a defined finish; Control the thickness of your lines by pressing down just a touch; Fine and natural, broad and bold, the look is always up to you
- All Eyes On Eye Makeup: Complete your look with our full range of eye makeup products ranging from eyeshadow palettes to false eyelashes, eyeliners, concealers, setting sprays, eyebrow makeup, eyeshadow primer and more
The NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Epic Ink Liner is a waterproof liquid eyeliner designed for bold black definition. With a 4.5-star rating and a price point under $10, it stands out as an appealing option for beginners who want to try liquid liner without moving into a premium price range.
This liner is a vegan formula, which makes it a strong choice for shoppers who prefer that feature. Its liquid format is best suited for users who are ready to practice more controlled strokes and want a classic black liner look.
For beginners, the key appeal here is its balance of affordability and performance. If you’re looking to experiment with liquid eyeliner while keeping your budget in check, this is one of the most practical options on the list.
Pros
- Waterproof liquid formula
- Vegan formula
- Affordable price
- Strong user rating
Cons
- Liquid format may take practice for beginners
- Best suited to users who want a bold black look
2. Best Value: e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner
- ULTIMATE EYE PENCIL: The e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner is a waterproof, retractable eyeliner that checks all your pencil liner requirements
- ALL-DAY WEAR: This product is creamy, ultra-pigmented, and has ultimate waterproof staying power
- INTENSE LOOK: We recommend you use this retractable eyeliner pencil on your lash line, waterline, or all over the lid for intense eyes that last all day
The e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner is a creamy, ultra-pigmented waterproof eyeliner made for bold and defined lines. At $6 and backed by a 4.4-star rating, it offers a very accessible entry point for beginners who want a retractable pencil-style option.
Because it is retractable, there is no need to sharpen it, which can make application simpler for everyday use. Its creamy texture is another plus if you want an eyeliner that glides on with less drag than some dry pencils.
This is a solid pick for beginners who like the familiarity of a pencil format but still want rich color payoff and waterproof wear. It also appeals to shoppers looking for vegan and cruelty-free makeup.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Retractable design
- Creamy application
- Waterproof
Cons
- Bold pigmentation may be less forgiving for shaky hands
- Black only in this listing
3. Best for Long Wear: L’Oreal Paris Infallible Grip Mechanical Gel Eyeliner Pencil
- Longwear Gel Eyeliner: This eyeliner delivers even strokes with 36HR hold, with a smudge-resistant, waterproof eye makeup formula. This eyeliner pencil glides on smoothly with no mess and no touch-ups
- Easy Glide Application: Apply eye liner as an even stroke or use the included blending tip to fade out lines for a dramatic eye makeup look. Ophthalmologist tested & suitable for sensitive eyes
- Define Your Eye: Your infallible look isn't complete without eye liner. Available in 6 color eyeliner shades. Enhance your classic look with a black eyeliner, get bold with a green, teal, or blue eyeliner, or try neutral grey or brown eyeliner
L’Oreal Paris Infallible Grip Mechanical Gel Eyeliner Pencil is a smudge-resistant, waterproof eye makeup product with up to 36-hour wear. It comes in intense black and has a 4.5-star rating, making it a strong contender for beginners who want lasting results.
The mechanical pencil format is easy to handle, and the gel texture can help it glide on smoothly. That combination can be useful if you prefer a more controlled application than a liquid liner typically allows.
If your priority is durability, this eyeliner offers a highly practical path. Beginners who want a dependable black line that stays put throughout the day will likely appreciate this formula.
Pros
- Mechanical pencil format
- Waterproof
- Smudge-resistant
- Up to 36-hour wear
Cons
- Long-wear formulas can be less forgiving to remove
- Only one shade listed
4. Best Easy-to-Use Liquid Pen: Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Pen Eyeliner
- Liquid Eyeliner: Introducing liquid liner minus the skips, slips, gaps and struggle; With its hyper easy brush tip, this liquid eyeliner delivers the smoothest glide on your eyelid, fitting to the shape of your eye
- Flex-Tip Brush: The revolutionary flex tip brush and custom hexagonal grip gives optimal control and easy, stable application; It lasts up to 24 hours with intense color that doesn’t smudge
- Maybelline Is The Eye Expert: Whatever your signature eye look, natural or dramatic, Maybelline helps create looks that draw eyes; With a broad selection of pencil and liquid eyeliners, highly pigmented eyeshadows, iconic mascara, and eyebrow makeup
The Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Pen No-Skip Eyeliner is built around a pen-style applicator with a satin finish and waterproof formula. It has a 4.4-star rating and comes in Pitch Black, which makes it attractive for users who want a straightforward liquid liner experience.
The pen shape can feel more intuitive than a traditional brush-style liquid liner, especially for beginners still learning how much pressure to use. That can help you create more even lines with practice.
It’s a strong option for people who want a simple, controlled liquid liner and appreciate waterproof wear. If you’re working toward cleaner wings or sharper lines, this product is a sensible place to start.
Pros
- Pen-style applicator
- Waterproof formula
- Satin finish
- Strong beginner-friendly design
Cons
- Liquid format can still take practice
- Only one shade listed
5. Best Pencil Option: Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner
- LASTING EYELINER: Rich color looks freshly applied all day long; transfer-proof, waterproof, smudge-proof and fade-proof
- UP TO 24HR WEAR: Creates the look you want and stays on strong
- EASY APPLICATION: Pencil eyeliner glides on, creating intensely defined lines that can go from subtle to dramatic. Includes built-in sharpener for the perfect pointed tip and a smudger to blend.
The Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner is a smudge-proof pencil with a built-in sharpener and matte finish. It holds a 4.5-star rating and is priced under $8, which makes it especially appealing for beginners who want a classic pencil format.
Its built-in sharpener adds convenience, helping keep the tip ready for precise lines. The black-brown shade can also be a softer entry point than a very intense jet black, depending on your style preference.
This is a practical everyday eyeliner for someone who wants a familiar pencil feel and a dependable finish. Beginners looking for a low-fuss option will likely find it easy to work with.
Pros
- Built-in sharpener
- Waterproof
- Smudge-proof
- Matte finish
Cons
- Requires sharpening
- Not as fast as retractable formats
6. Best Premium Pencil: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil
- AWARD-WINNING 24/7 WATERPROOF EYELINER: Urban Decay's 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil delivers creamy, high-performance color in over 30 bold, pigment-packed shades. Choose from matte, metallic, shimmer, glitter, and satin finishes for limitless eye looks
- ALL-DAY WEAR BENEFITS: Achieve up to 16 hours of waterproof, smudge-proof eyeliner wear with unbeatable formula staying power and intensly pigmented colors. From bold black and neutral eyeliner shades like taupe to electrifying pops of colorful eyeliner in pink, blue, and green
- ULTRA-CREAMY FORMULA: This creamy, blendable eyeliner pencil glides on effortlessly without tugging or skipping. Perfect for creating crisp lines, winged eyeliner, a defined cateye or blending out like an eyeshadow for a smokey eye, it sets in place for long-lasting, fade-proof wear
The Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil is a long-lasting, smudge-proof, transfer-proof pencil with hydrating vitamin E and jojoba oil. It has a 4.3-star rating and sits at a higher price point than many beginner options.
Because it is designed to glide on smoothly, this pencil may feel comfortable for users who prefer a soft application. The added hydrating ingredients are notable for shoppers who want a more polished pencil formula.
For beginners with a little more budget, it offers a refined pencil experience and a premium feel. It is best suited to those who want a dependable liner with a comfortable glide.
Pros
- Smudge-proof
- Transfer-proof
- Hydrating ingredients
- Smooth glide
Cons
- Higher price
- Rating is slightly lower than some alternatives
7. Best Classic Liquid: stila Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
- Pull gently on the upper corner of the eye area to stretch and smooth the eye before lining with the Stay All Day Liquid Liner
- Apply the liner as close to the lashes as possible
- A product of the USA
The stila Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner features a fine brush tip, lasting satin finish, and smudge-proof, transfer-resistant wear. With a 4.4-star rating, it is a well-known liquid option for those ready to practice more precise application.
The fine brush tip may appeal to beginners who want control for thin lines or winged looks. However, liquid liners generally require a steadier hand than pencils or stamps, so this one is better for users who are prepared to learn.
This is a strong pick if you want a liquid liner that can support a variety of looks. For beginners who are interested in precise black eyeliner, it offers a classic experience.
Pros
- Fine brush tip
- Smudge-proof
- Transfer-resistant
- Satin finish
Cons
- Brush tip may be challenging for true beginners
- Higher price than many drugstore alternatives
8. Best for Easy Cat Eyes: 2CHILL 2-Pack Rotating Eyeliner Stamp Pen
- 【Dual-Ended Cat Eyeliner Stamp in 2 Colors】Create perfectly matched wings every single time! Unlike regular eye liner pencils or eyeliner brush tools, our innovative rotating eyeliner stamp pen features clearly marked Left/Right ends, engineered to fit the natural angle of each eye. Switch between classic black eyeliner pencil and soft Brown liquid eyeliner to complement any makeup style—from everyday subtle to bold and defined. Your go-to eyeliner stamp wingliner for fast, effortless, and symmetrical lines.
- 【Ergonomic Rotating Grip - Easy Eyeliner for Beginners & Shaky Hands】 Designed with comfort in mind, our eyeliner pen- smooth rotating mechanism offers two ergonomic hold positions, allowing you to find the most natural angle for steady application. The improved grip control is especially helpful for those with unsteady hands, making it easier to create clean, even wings with confidence. Flexible, refined, and crafted for everyday precision.
- 【All-Day Wear, Zero Fuss】Our waterproof eyeliner richly pigmented, quick-drying formula delivers long-lasting definition that stays put from morning to night. Fully waterproof and smudge proof eyeliner liquid, it holds up flawlessly through daily wear — even during workouts or humid conditions — keeping your wings clean, sharp, and touch-up free.
The 2CHILL 2-Pack Rotating Eyeliner Stamp Pen is built specifically for beginners who want a simpler path to winged eyeliner. It includes a dual-ended stamp design, comes in black and brown, and is waterproof and smudge-proof.
Stamp-style eyeliner tools can be much easier to use than freehand winging, especially if you struggle with symmetry. The dual-ended format adds practicality by giving you more than one application approach in a single product set.
If your main goal is to create cat eyes quickly, this is one of the most beginner-friendly product styles in the roundup. It is a helpful choice for anyone who wants less guesswork.
Pros
- Designed for beginners
- Stamp tool helps with wings
- Waterproof
- Includes black and brown
Cons
- Specialized style may not suit every look
- Not as versatile as a standard pencil or pen
9. Best Felt Tip Pen: e.l.f. H2O Proof Eyeliner Pen
- EYELINER FOR ENHANCING & DEFINING: Keep yourself in line—this waterproof liquid eyeliner makes it easier than ever to instantly enhance and define your eyes.
- PRECISION FELT TIP: The pen’s fine felt tip delivers intense, deep black pigment—from thin, tight lines to thick, dramatic cat eyes, you have control.
- NOURISHING & LONG-LASTING: The vitamin-infused formula nourishes your lash line and stays put all day for a long-lasting look.
The e.l.f. H2O Proof Eyeliner Pen is a felt tip, waterproof, high-pigment liner in Jet Black. It has a 4.5-star rating and is marketed as a bold-look option with a vegan and cruelty-free formula.
Felt tip pens are often easier to steer than brush tips, which can make them appealing for beginners building confidence. The pen format also offers a familiar shape that many users find comfortable in the hand.
If you want strong color and a defined finish without jumping straight into a traditional liquid brush, this is a smart option to consider. It balances simplicity and impact well.
Pros
- Felt tip applicator
- Waterproof
- High-pigment
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Bold pigment can be less forgiving
- Best for users comfortable with pen-style liners
10. Best Creamy Retractable: NYX Mechanical Eye Pencil
- Retractable Eye Liner: A line and defined eye is just a twist away with this eyeliner pen; Intense pigment covers like a liquid eyeliner while its creamy formula holds for hours; No need to sharpen just twist up and apply for a winged out eyeliner look
- Smudge Proof and Smooth: This smudge proof eyeliner glides on effortlessly and lasts all day through heat and humidity no sad bleeding eyeliner here; Available in natural to bright shades, any eyeliner look is possible with our Retractable Eye Pencil
- All Eyes On Eye Makeup: Complete your look with our full range of eye makeup products ranging from eyeshadow palettes to false eyelashes, eyeliners, concealers, setting sprays, eyebrow makeup, eyeshadow primer and more
The NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Mechanical Eye Pencil offers a creamy retractable design in Always Onyx black. It has a 4.5-star rating and is a convenient choice for beginners who want a mechanical pencil that is easy to use.
Retractable eyeliners remove the need for sharpening, which is a major convenience for everyday makeup routines. The creamy texture can also make application smoother and easier to control.
This product is a good match for beginners who want a stable pencil format with rich black color. It’s especially appealing if you want something simple and reliable.
Pros
- Retractable design
- Creamy texture
- User-friendly format
- Strong rating
Cons
- Only one shade listed
- May not create the sharpest lines compared with liquid pens
11. Best Budget Gel Pencil: wet n wild Mega Last Breakup Proof Waterproof Retractable Gel Eyeliner
- Waterproof Eyeliner: This ultra pigmented eyeliner delivers smudge proof, flake proof, cry proof color with a satin gel formula that glides onto lids without tugging or pulling. Lasts up to 16 hours
- All Eyes On You: Our silky, waterproof retractable gel eyeliner is lightweight, comfortable, and ultra long lasting. Create bold looks effortlessly with the intense color rich formula
- Best Face Forward: From bronzer and blush to primer, highlighter, natural finish powder, and concealer, we've got you covered and photo ready for your next big thing. You've met your true makeup match
The wet n wild Mega Last Breakup Proof Waterproof Retractable Gel Eyeliner is an ultra-pigmented, 16-hour long-wear gel pencil with a satin finish. At just $2.28 and rated 4.4 stars, it is one of the most budget-friendly choices here.
Its retractable format makes it easy to use, and the gel texture is designed to feel smooth on application. The charcoal shade offers a slightly softer alternative to harsh black while still delivering visible definition.
For beginners who want performance without a high price tag, this is a very practical option. It provides a good balance of convenience, wear, and color payoff.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Retractable
- Ultra-pigmented
- 16-hour long wear
Cons
- Charcoal may not suit users wanting pure black only
- Gel formulas can still require a steady hand
12. Best Budget Liquid: Maybelline Master Precise All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
- No Smudge Black Liquid Eyeliner: This waterproof eyeliner features an ultra fine tip that delivers the most defined, precise line and stays put on your eyelid for up to 12 hours with whatever look you're working
- Precision Application: Our eye liner has an ergonomic grip with a precision tip for easy control— for thin to thick eye makeup lines. This liquid eyeliner pen features a no-slip, easy-glide application to let you create precise lines in 1 stroke
- Saturated Shades: Available in pigmented eyeliner liquid liner shades—from Matte Black and Satin Black to Brown, Emerald and Cobalt—to deliver all looks from easy cat eyes to graphic wings. Saturated power pigments last all day for up to 30HR of wear
The Maybelline Eyestudio Master Precise All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner is a black liquid liner with a strong reputation for easy everyday use. It holds a 4.4-star rating and sits in an approachable price range.
As a liquid eyeliner, it is best for beginners who are ready to practice straight lines and controlled wings. Its all-day waterproof format makes it a practical choice for wear that lasts.
This product is a dependable mainstream option for shoppers who want a familiar liquid liner from a widely recognized brand. It’s a useful step up for beginners curious about cleaner, more defined makeup looks.
Pros
- Waterproof formula
- All-day wear focus
- Affordable
- Widely recognized brand
Cons
- Liquid application may take practice
- Only one shade listed
13. Best Soft Pencil: wet n wild Color Icon Kohl Eyeliner Pencil
- These long-wearing liners have rich, hyper-pigmented color, an oh-so-smooth, oh-so-creamy application, and are versatile enough to create any look you want
- No wonder theyre so raved about by celebs and makeup artists
- But dont worry, just because we're all Hollywood now doesnt mean we've forgotten about you
The wet n wild Color Icon Kohl Eyeliner Pencil is a rich, hyper-pigmented pencil with a smooth creamy application and matte finish. At $1, it is one of the most affordable options available and carries a 4.5-star rating.
Kohl pencils are often a good choice for beginners because they can feel softer and less intimidating than some sharper or drier formulas. This one is also cruelty-free, which may matter to many shoppers.
If you want to experiment without spending much, this is a very easy recommendation. It’s ideal for testing out eyeliner basics, especially if you prefer a traditional pencil feel.
Pros
- Extremely low price
- Smooth creamy application
- Rich pigment
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Not waterproof in the product title
- May need more touch-ups than long-wear formulas
14. Best for Quick Wings: The Flick Stick Winged Eyeliner Stamp
- The Perfect Wings Everytime – Eye liner wings have never been easier. Line up the stamp from the corner of your eye to the end of your eyebrow to create the same wing on each side. The curve in each stamp eyeliner provides a quick natural cat eye look
The Flick Stick Winged Eyeliner Stamp is a cat-eye stencil makeup tool designed to simplify winged eyeliner. It is smudge-proof and waterproof and comes in a 10mm classic Midnight Black version.
As a stamp-style tool, it is aimed at speed and symmetry, which can make a big difference for beginners. Instead of trying to freehand both sides, you can use the stamp format to get a more even result.
This is a focused tool rather than a traditional eyeliner, so it is best for shoppers who specifically want help with winged looks. It’s a useful aid if your main struggle is getting matching wings.
Pros
- Built for winged eyeliner
- Waterproof
- Smudge-proof
- Helps with symmetry
Cons
- More specialized than a standard liner
- May not suit users who want everyday simple lines
15. Best for Maximum Ease: Maybelline Unstoppable Waterproof Mechanical Black Eyeliner Pencil
- Smudge Resistant Pencil Eyeliner: With a self-sharpening tip and a smudge-resistant, waterproof formula, this mechanical eye pencil delivers control and definition from natural lines to your boldest looks
- Define Your Eye: No eye makeup look is complete without Maybelline Eyeliner with bold and deeply-rich shades like our black eyeliner pencil, get playful with a green or blue eyeliner, or take a softer approach with brown eyeliner on your eyelids
- Maybelline Is The Eye Expert: Whatever your signature eye look, natural or dramatic, Maybelline helps create looks that draw eyes; With a broad selection of pencil and liquid eyeliners, highly pigmented eyeshadows, iconic mascara, and eyebrow makeup
The Maybelline Unstoppable Waterproof Mechanical Black Eyeliner Pencil is made for easy application, smooth glide, and up to 24-hour wear. With a 4.6-star rating, it is the highest-rated product in this roundup.
The mechanical pencil format is especially beginner-friendly because it removes sharpening from the equation. It’s designed to apply smoothly, which can help reduce drag and make your first eyeliner attempts feel less tense.
For beginners who want a reliable and straightforward pencil option, this may be the easiest place to start. Its strong rating and simple design make it a standout everyday pick.
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Smooth glide
- Mechanical pencil design
- Highest rating in this roundup
Cons
- Less versatile than some liquid options for sharp wings
- Only one shade listed
Buying Guide
Choosing the Best Eyeliner For Beginners depends on how comfortable you are with different formulas and application styles. Some people prefer pencils because they feel more forgiving, while others like pens or stamps because they make precise shaping easier. The right option should reduce frustration and help you build confidence.
Key Buying Criteria
Formula Type
Pencils, gels, liquids, and stamps all behave differently. Pencils and retractable formulas are often easiest for beginners, while liquid liners can create sharper lines but require more control.
Applicator Style
Felt tip pens, mechanical pencils, and stamp tools can be easier to handle than brush tips. If you are new to eyeliner, look for an applicator that feels steady in your hand.
Wear Time
Waterproof, smudge-resistant, and long-wear formulas are helpful if you want your eyeliner to stay in place. Just keep in mind that stronger wear often means more effort during removal.
Color Intensity
Intense black liners create a more dramatic look, while shades like brown or charcoal may feel softer and be easier to wear daily. Beginners may prefer softer shades when learning technique.
Convenience
Retractable and mechanical designs eliminate sharpening, which can make them more practical for everyday use. Built-in sharpeners and stamp tools can also improve ease of application.
Price
There are excellent beginner-friendly choices at nearly every budget. If you’re just starting out, it can make sense to try a lower-cost product first before investing in a premium option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of eyeliner is easiest for beginners?
Pencil and retractable eyeliners are usually the easiest for beginners because they offer more control and are generally more forgiving than liquid liners.
Is liquid eyeliner hard for beginners?
Liquid eyeliner can be harder at first because it requires a steadier hand and more precise application. Pen-style or felt-tip liquid eyeliners are often easier to learn with than brush-tip formulas.
Should beginners choose waterproof eyeliner?
Waterproof eyeliner is a good option if you want long wear and less smudging, but it may be a little harder to remove. Many beginners like waterproof formulas for everyday reliability.
What is the best eyeliner style for creating wings?
Winged eyeliner is often easiest with liquid pens or eyeliner stamp tools. Stamp-style products can be especially helpful if you struggle with symmetry.
How do I choose the right shade?
Black is the most common choice for definition, but brown or charcoal may feel softer and less intimidating for first-time users. Choose the shade that matches your desired look and comfort level.
Conclusion
The Best Eyeliner For Beginners depends on whether you want simplicity, long wear, easy wings, or a classic pencil feel. If you’re just starting out, retractable pencils and pen-style applicators are often the easiest entry points, while stamp tools can help remove some of the pressure from winged eyeliner.
From the budget-friendly wet n wild and e.l.f. options to standout picks like the Maybelline Unstoppable and NYX Epic Ink Liner, this list gives you several realistic ways to start learning. Pick the one that matches your skill level and the look you want, and you’ll be on your way to more confident eyeliner application.