Guide to Different Types of Eyeliner

An eyeliner can instantly define your eyes, sharpen up your makeup look, and take even the simplest makeup to a glam look.  

To help you figure out textures, finishes, and formulas so that you know when to use each type of liner, here's the Guide to Different Types of Eyeliner.

Whether you’re playing with dramatic wings or subtle everyday definition, this guide will help you find your perfect eyelines.

For a full eye makeup kit, check out the eyeliner collection at Reana and complete your look with some gorgeous colors from their eyeshadow range.

Why Is It Important to Know Different Types of Eyeliners

Each eyeliner formula is different. Some glide, some immediately dry down, and others let you sit there and blend/smoke out the edges. Selecting the wrong kind can cause:

• Smudging

• Uneven lines

• Cracking or flaking

• Difficulty in application

For more about eye makeup essentials, see our pillar guide on types of eye makeup.

Eyeliner Types Explained in Detail

Here, we will talk about the different types of eyeliner and what makes each unique.

Pencil Eyeliner:

Pencil eyeliner is the most classic and easiest for beginners.

Types of Pencil Eyeliners

• Wooden pencils: Require sharpening

• Retractable pencils: Twist-up format

• Kohl pencils: Creamier, super pigmented

• Waterproof pencil formulas

Texture & Finish

Pencil liners typically come in a soft, creamy format. They’re easy to blend, which makes them great for smoky looks.

Best For

• Everyday wear

• Waterline application

• Smoky eye looks

• Beginners

It also includes the introduction about pencil eyeliner vs felt tip eyeliner etc.

Pros

• Easy to use

• Great for soft looks

• Blendable

Cons

• May smudge if not set

• Needs sharpening (for wooden types)

In fact, pencil liner is widely considered the best eyeliner for beginners if you're just beginning your makeup journey.

Liquid Eyeliner:

Liquid eyeliner is considered the kind that makes accurate, bold lines.

Available options

• Brush tip liquid liner

• Felt tip liquid liner

• Dip pot liquid liner

Texture & Finish

Liquid liners are fluid and dry matte or glossy. These are highly pigmented and precise.

Best For

• Winged eyeliner

• Graphic liner looks

• Bold, dramatic makeup

In the gel vs liquid eyeliner, liquid liners have sharper edges over gels that are creamier and may give you a well-blended look.

Pros

• Ultra-precise

• Long-lasting

• High color payoff

Cons

• Requires steady hands

• Can dry out quickly

Liquid liner works well for events, photoshoots, and long days when true definition is key.

Gel Eyeliner:

Gel eyeliner is between a pencil and liquid in texture.

Packaging

• Comes in small pots

• Applied with an angled brush

Texture & Finish

Creamy yet thicker than liquid, gel liner glides on with ease and dries to a semi-matte finish.

Best For

• Winged liner

• Dramatic evening looks

• Long-wear makeup

Marker Liner:

These liners look a little like a pen, easy to apply with precision.

Why People Love Them

• Easy grip

• Great control

• Ideal for wings

When we compare the pencil vs felt tip eyeliner, the felt tip gives cleaner lines and is best for a defined style.

Best For

• Beginners wanting liquid-style results

• Every day winged eyeliner

• Quick makeup routines

They’re less messy than pot gel liners, and easier than traditional liquid brushes.

Waterproof Eyeliner

If long-wear is your number one priority, waterproof eyeliner types are a must.

Available In

• Pencil

• Liquid

• Gel

• Felt tip

Who Should Use Waterproof Eyeliner?

• Oily eyelids

• Humid climates

• Long workdays

• Weddings and events

Waterproof eyeliners are resistant to sweat, tears, and humidity.

But you need a proper eye makeup remover to avoid pulling on the sensitive eye region.

Smudge Proof Eyeliner

Often mistaken for waterproof, smudge-proof eyeliner is designed to remain in place without transferring.

• Differences from Waterproof

• Smudge-proof resists rubbing

• Waterproof resists moisture

Many formulas mix both properties for long-lasting results.

For those who have issues with smudging under their eyes, using a smudge proof eyeliner is key.

Kohl Eyeliner

Kohl liner is heavily pigmented and mostly recommended for waterline application.

Characteristics

• Soft texture

• Intense black payoff

• Easy blending

Best For

• Smoky eyes

• Bold traditional looks

• Waterline definition

Pairing kohl liner with shimmer or matte shades from the eyeshadow collection adds beautiful depth.

Cream Eyeliner

Gel pencil liners are stiffer than cream and perfect for smoky, editorial looks.

Features

• Highly blendable

• Great for smoky eyes

• Easy to build intensity

They typically come in little jars, like gel liners, but remain softer longer.

Gel And Liquid Eyeliner: Quick Comparison

How to Pick the Right Eyeliner: Expert Tips

The perfect eyeliner for you depends on your:

·       Skill level

·       Desired finish

·       Eye shape

·       Lifestyle

For Beginners

• Pencil liner

• Felt tip liner

For Sharp Wings

• Liquid liner

• Gel liner

For Long Wear

• Waterproof eyeliner types

• Smudge proof eyeliner

For Smoky Looks

• Kohl

• Cream liner

• Blendable pencil

Build a full eye makeup routine with different eyeliner formulas, along with eyeshadow options, if you want to explore the perfect looks.

Common Mistakes When Using Eyeliner

Avoid these common mistakes:

1.      Pulling your eyelid while applying

2.      Skipping primer

3.      Not setting creamy formulas

4.      Using expired products

5.      Heavy lines on small eyes

Tips for Long-Lasting Eyeliner

To extend wear time:

·       Apply eyeshadow primer first

·       Make sure to set the pencil liner with a matching eyeshadow.

·       Opt for waterproof products in humid weather

·       Avoid touching your eyes

FAQs

What type of eyeliner is best for beginners?

Pencil and felt-tip liners are the best eyeliner for beginners. They are forgiving, easy to control, and they allow you to apply smoothly without advanced skills.

What is the difference between liquid and gel eyeliners?

Comparing gel vs liquid eyeliner, you have a creamy texture in the case of gel, and it needs to be applied with a brush, compared to liquid, which is more pigmented. Liquid eyeliner is fluid, dries fast, and provides bolder, more defined lines.

Which eyeliner lasts the longest?

Solid waterproof eyeliner types last the longest. Smudge-proof versions are also ideal for all-day, budge-proof wear, whether you have oily eyelids or if humidity is wreaking havoc on your makeup.

Conclusion

The eyeliner you choose can make or break your entire look. Whether your favorite eyeliner comes in pencil form, gel to liquid, waterproof to plain jane, our guide helps you get to know the ideal formula and tips to choose the right eyeliner for yourself. Whether you like a soft definition or bold wings, there’s a liner for that at Reana.

Discover a range from the eyeliner collection and complete the look with matching eyeshadows for beautiful, long-lasting eye makeup.