5 Must-Have Gel Eyeliners

Ever wished for eyeliner that stayed put through happy hours and dance-offs? Meet gel eyeliner, your new best friend. This intensely pigmented pot of magic delivers a precise wing or a smoky smudge, all day long. Forget smudging and raccoon eyes; its creamy texture glides on smoothly, setting beautifully with a brush or even your fingertip. Pair it with your favorite eyeshadow and mascara for a look that lasts. Gel eyeliner is a game-changer.

This list highlights top-performing items based on a rigorous evaluation process. Factors considered ensure superior quality, including rich color, lasting power, smooth application, safe ingredients, and convenient packaging. The selection process prioritizes products meeting the highest standards for optimal performance and user experience.

1. Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Black Gel Eyeliner (0.04 oz)

Intense black, waterproof, long-lasting, and surprisingly affordable!

Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Black Gel Eyeliner (0.04 oz)
    Highly rated
  • Longevity
  • Eyeliner quality
  • Pigment quality
  • Ease of application
  • Glide
    Some controversy about
  • Smudge resistance
  • Value for money
  • Waterproof

Rimmel London Scandaleyes Waterproof Gel Pencil Eyeliner in classic black (001) delivers intense, long-lasting color with its ultra-smooth, creamy formula. This smudge-proof, sweat-proof, and waterproof eyeliner, perfect for creating both dramatic and subtle looks, is ideal for all-day wear. Its easy application allows for precise lines or a smoky smudged effect, making it versatile for various styles. The 0.04oz pencil is dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested, suitable even for sensitive eyes. Experience the scandalously intense color payoff and unparalleled staying power of Rimmel's iconic Scandaleyes eyeliner – your go-to for a flawless, all-day look.

Rimmel London Scandaleyes Waterproof Gel Eyeliner delivers intense, rich black color in a single stroke. Its creamy texture makes application smooth and effortless, while the formula sets quickly for all-day wear, even through swimming and strenuous activity. Users praise its exceptional staying power and deep, bold color, noting it remains vibrant even after hours of wear. While some users mentioned minor smudging if not allowed to set properly and a need for a specific sharpener, the overwhelmingly positive feedback highlights its incredible longevity and waterproof capabilities, making it a worthwhile purchase, especially considering its affordable price. Many users keep multiple backups on hand, testament to its performance and value. This eyeliner is perfect for creating both subtle definition and dramatic looks, suitable for all skin tones and eye colors. The deep black color enhances the contrast of the eyes, particularly around the limbal ring. Whether you're looking for a long-lasting liner for everyday wear or a waterproof option for swimming and other activities, the Rimmel London Scandaleyes Waterproof Gel Eyeliner consistently receives top marks.

  • Brand: Rimmel London
  • Color: Black
  • Finish Type: Glossy
  • Item Form: Pencil
  • Rate: 4.3 / 23871
Outstanding features:
  • Waterproof
  • Smudge-proof
  • Long-lasting
Context of use:
  • Everyday makeup routine
  • Special occasions/night out
  • Water sports/swimming

2. Kaely Black Gel & Cream Eyeliner Set: Waterproof, Smudge-Proof, Smokey Eyes

Intense color, easy application, surprisingly long-lasting!

Kaely Black Gel & Cream Eyeliner Set: Waterproof, Smudge-Proof, Smokey Eyes
    Highly rated
  • Ease of application
  • Color variety
  • Effectiveness
  • Smoothness
    Some controversy about
  • Longevity
  • Value for money
  • Smudge resistance
  • Waterproof

Enhance your makeup routine with the Kaely 2Pcs Black Gel Eyeliner Pencil. This versatile, waterproof, and smudge-proof eyeliner is perfect for creating a variety of looks, from subtle everyday styles to dramatic smoky eyes, ideal for goth Halloween makeup or any special occasion. Its creamy, easy-to-apply gel formula ensures a smooth, long-lasting line, and its multi-functional design allows use as a lip liner or eyeshadow. The convenient packaging makes it a perfect gift. Experience the precision of this eyeliner, complemented by other Kaely products like their cream eyeshadow sticks and liquid eyeliner sets, for a complete, professional makeup look.

This eyeliner is a game-changer! Users rave about its incredibly smooth application and intense pigmentation, creating a bold, dramatic look—perfect for achieving a gorgeous, Arabic-inspired eye (as one user noted). The creamy texture makes it easy to use, even for creating a smoky eye base, and the rich color payoff is consistently praised. Many found the long-lasting wear to be a significant advantage, with some reporting it staying put all day. While a few users mentioned minor smudging or the need for a midday touch-up, the overall consensus highlights the exceptional value for money and ease of use. The eyeliner's durable design, even surviving the occasional accidental drop, further adds to its appeal. Available in a range of vibrant colors, including dark green and light purple, this eyeliner is a must-have for anyone seeking a high-quality, versatile product that delivers stunning results.

  • Brand: Kaely
  • Color: A-2Pcs-Black&Black
  • Finish Type: Matte
  • Item Form: Crayon
  • Rate: 3.8 / 1990
Outstanding features:
  • Waterproof and smudge-proof
  • Long-lasting wear
  • Multifunctional use (eyes, lips, brows)
Context of use:
  • Everyday makeup routine
  • Halloween costume makeup
  • Goth or alternative makeup looks

3. L'Oréal Paris Infallible Grip Gel Eyeliner: Intense Black, 36-hour wear.

Smooth application, vibrant color, and all-day wear!

L
    Highly rated
  • Ease of application
  • Eyeliner quality
  • Color
  • Longevity
  • Glide
  • Brightness
  • Value for money
    Some controversy about
  • Smudge resistance

Make a statement with L'Oréal Paris Infallible Grip Mechanical Gel Eyeliner Pencil. This intense black eyeliner boasts a smudge-proof, waterproof formula for up to 36 hours of flawless wear. Its innovative mechanical gel texture glides on effortlessly, delivering even, precise strokes for a dramatic or subtle look. Perfect for creating sharp lines or smoky effects, this ophthalmologist-tested eyeliner is suitable even for sensitive eyes. Complement your look with other L'Oréal Paris products like the Infallible Full Wear Concealer or Brow Stylist Definer for a complete, long-lasting makeup masterpiece. Experience the superior hold and intense color payoff of this must-have eyeliner – because you're worth it.

The L'Oréal Paris Infallible Grip 36H Gel Mechanical Liner, particularly in shades like "Polar White" and "Bright Nude," consistently receives rave reviews for its exceptional performance. Users praise its incredibly smooth, creamy application, making it easy to create both subtle highlights and bold graphic liner looks. The rich pigmentation delivers vibrant color in a single stroke, while the quick-setting formula ensures all-day wear without smudging or fading—even during workouts or humid conditions. The innovative mechanical pencil design eliminates the need for sharpening, saving valuable time in one's makeup routine. The built-in sponge tip is also a plus, offering effective blending capabilities for creating soft, diffused effects. Many users highlight its impressive water resistance and long-lasting wear, making it a true staple in their makeup routines. Although some users found the "Bright Nude" shade slightly lighter than expected, its versatility as a highlighter or concealer is noted. The liner's ability to seamlessly blend with other products further enhances its adaptability, making it a valuable addition to any makeup collection.

  • Brand: L’Oréal Paris
  • Color: Intense Black
  • Country: Germany
  • Dimensions: 7.06 x 1.88 x 7.06 inches
  • Finish Type: Matte
  • Item Form: Pencil
  • Manufacturer: L'Oréal Paris
  • Weight: 0.34 ounces
  • Rate: 4.4 / 2913
Outstanding features:
  • 36HR Long Wear
  • Smudge-Proof & Waterproof
  • Intense Black Color
Context of use:
  • Everyday makeup routine
  • Special occasion makeup
  • Professional makeup application

4. AMC Gel Eyeliner 77

Unmatched longevity, intense color, and smudge-proof perfection.

AMC Gel Eyeliner 77
    Highly rated
  • Eyeliner quality
  • Pigmentation
  • Longevity
  • Ease of application
  • Smoothness
  • Sturdiness
    Some controversy about
  • Smudge resistance
  • Dries quickly

Indulge your eyes with AMC Eyeliner Gel 77 by Inglot, a vegan-friendly, intensely pigmented eyeliner designed for precise application. This beauty product from Inglot's renowned AMC line delivers long-lasting wear and vibrant color, perfect for creating dramatic or subtle eye looks. Its gel formula glides on smoothly, ensuring effortless application and a flawless finish. Whether you're aiming for a classic winged liner or a smoky eye effect, the AMC Eyeliner Gel 77 provides the control and staying power you need. As a cruelty-free and vegan eye product, it's a guilt-free choice for enhancing your natural beauty.

Inglot AMC Gel Eyeliner is a phenomenal product, receiving rave reviews for its exceptional performance and longevity. Users consistently praise its intensely pigmented colors, describing the black (#77) as the darkest, most waterproof eyeliner they've ever used, surpassing even high-end brands like Anastasia, Urban Decay, and MAC. The vibrant indigo blue (#99) is equally lauded for its unique metallic satin finish and impressive staying power. Many reviewers highlight its smudge-proof nature, even with watery eyes or extended wear (12+ hours!), making it perfect for both the lash line and waterline. While application requires precision due to the intense pigment and quick-drying formula (a small spatula is recommended), the result is a flawlessly sharp wing or precise line. The long-lasting formula is truly remarkable, resisting smudging, fading, and even the toughest makeup removers. Furthermore, the Inglot Duraline, a revitalizing solution, allows for extended use of the product. Overall, despite needing a steady hand for application, the Inglot AMC Gel Eyeliner delivers exceptional results and is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a long-lasting, highly pigmented eyeliner.

  • Brand: Inglot
  • Color: 77 Black
  • Finish Type: Contour
  • Item Form: Solid
  • Rate: 4.5 / 5464
Outstanding features:
  • Vegan formula
  • Gel eyeliner texture
  • Long-lasting wear
Context of use:
  • Creating a dramatic smoky eye look
  • Achieving a precise winged eyeliner
  • Defining the eyes for a natural everyday makeup

5. MAC Fluidline Blacktrack Gel Eyeliner

Long-lasting, creamy, intensely pigmented eyeliner—a makeup marvel!

MAC Fluidline Blacktrack Gel Eyeliner
    Highly rated
  • Eyeliner quality
  • Color accuracy
  • Stays in place
  • Texture
  • Longevity
    Some controversy about
  • Waterproof
  • Smudge resistance
  • Quality

Experience the ultimate in eye definition with M.A.C. Fluidline Eye Liner Gel in Blacktrack. This intensely pigmented black gel liner delivers the precision of a liquid liner, but with a surprisingly smooth, silky application. Its foolproof formula glides on effortlessly with a brush (sold separately), creating a long-lasting, smudge-proof line. The rich, deep black of Blacktrack ensures bold, dramatic eyes that stay put all day. Enjoy the versatility of this iconic M.A.C. product, achieving a range of looks from subtle to striking, thanks to its buildable intensity and smudge-resistant qualities. The single-count packaging is perfect for those wanting to try the iconic M.A.C. Fluidline for the first time.

This MAC gel eyeliner is a true standout, delivering exceptional performance and lasting power. Users rave about its smooth, creamy application, creating effortlessly sleek lines, whether thin or thick, using an angled brush or directly from the pot. The intensely pigmented black (and other colors like Macroviolet) offers vibrant color payoff that lasts all day and night, even through swimming and sweating—a testament to its impressive staying power, exceeding expectations even for those seeking a waterproof liner. Many appreciate its longevity, with the small jar lasting surprisingly long, maintaining its creamy consistency unlike other gel eyeliners which tend to dry out. The formula is gentle enough even for sensitive eyelids. Whether you're a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, this eyeliner from MAC provides professional results with ease, making it a worthy investment. Several users even preferred this to other high-end and store-brand gel eyeliners (like L'Oréal), finding it superior in quality and comparable to products purchased directly from MAC stores.

  • Brand: MAC
  • Color: black
  • Finish Type: Satin
  • Item Form: Gel
  • Rate: 4.5 / 820
Outstanding features:
  • Precise application like liquid liner
  • Smudge-proof and long-lasting
  • Silky-soft finish
Context of use:
  • Creating a sharp, precise winged eyeliner look
  • Achieving a dramatic, smoky eye makeup
  • Defining the upper and lower lash lines for a classic look