Marc Jacobs vs Clinique Eyeliner: Which Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the perfect eyeliner can be a daunting task, with countless options promising long-lasting wear and smudge-proof formulas. This review cuts through the confusion by directly comparing two popular contenders: the Marc Jacobs Highliner Matte Gel Eye Crayon and the Clinique Quickliner for Eyes. Both brands are well-established in the beauty industry, but their eyeliner offerings differ significantly in terms of texture, application, and most importantly, longevity. We put these eyeliners to the ultimate test, subjecting them to rigorous smudge and wear evaluations to determine which reigns supreme.This head-to-head comparison focuses on key factors crucial for any eyeliner user: smudge resistance, waterproof capabilities, and overall staying power. We’ll be examining the ‘Overnight’ shade of the Marc Jacobs Highliner and ‘Intense Midnight’ from the Clinique Quickliner, both rich deep blues, to provide a fair and accurate comparison. Prepare to discover which eyeliner truly delivers on its promises and which one falls short, helping you make an informed decision for your next eye makeup purchase.

Pros And Cons

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The Contenders: Marc Jacobs Highliner vs. Clinique Quickliner

This review pits two popular eyeliner choices against each other: the Marc Jacobs Highliner Matte Gel Eye Crayon and the Clinique Quickliner for Eyes. Both promise long-lasting wear and smudge-proof formulas, but do they deliver? I'll be testing the 'Overnight' shade from Marc Jacobs and the 'Intense Midnight' shade from Clinique, both deep blues.

My primary concerns when choosing an eyeliner are longevity, smudge resistance, and waterproof capabilities. I want a product that will stay put all day without transferring or fading. This comparison will explore which product best meets these requirements.

Application and Initial Impressions

Applying both eyeliners, I immediately noticed a textural difference. The Marc Jacobs Highliner felt more matte and less glossy compared to the Clinique Quickliner, which had a subtle sheen. The Clinique eyeliner also boasts a sponge applicator on the opposite end, useful for smudging or softening the line, a feature absent in the Marc Jacobs product.

The initial color payoff was vibrant for both; however, the Clinique liner seemed slightly more intense and pigmented. The deep blue color was particularly striking in the Clinique product.

Smudge Test and Longevity

The real test came when evaluating smudge resistance. After allowing both eyeliners to set, I performed a smudge test using my finger. The Clinique eyeliner smudged relatively easily, while the Marc Jacobs Highliner held its ground remarkably well, even under pressure. This highlighted a significant difference in their formulas.

The smudge test was replicated on my eyes, confirming the results from the initial test. The Clinique liner failed to live up to its long-lasting claims, creating a 'panda eye' effect by the end of the day. The Marc Jacobs product maintained its color and position, only showing minimal fading.

Final Verdict and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Marc Jacobs Highliner Matte Gel Eye Crayon emerged as the clear winner. Its smudge-proof and long-lasting formula far surpassed the Clinique Quickliner, maintaining its integrity throughout the day and resisting smudging even with vigorous rubbing. While the Clinique product offers a beautiful, intense color and convenient sponge tip, its poor smudge resistance significantly impacts its overall performance.

For individuals with sensitive eyes or those seeking a truly long-lasting, smudge-proof eyeliner, the Marc Jacobs Highliner is strongly recommended. Despite the slightly higher price point, its superior performance justifies the investment. While the Clinique Quickliner boasts a lovely color, its lack of smudge resistance renders it unsuitable for all-day wear.