Top 5 Best Retractable Eyeliners

Ever wished for perfect eyeliner application, every single time? Meet the retractable eyeliner—your new wing-woman. No more sharpening, no more messy tips. This precision tool delivers effortless, smooth lines, thanks to its self-retractable design. From subtle everyday looks to dramatic smoky eyes, this eyeliner pencil and its creamy formula are your secret weapon for achieving that effortlessly chic, runway-ready gaze. It’s makeup made easy.

Providing a list of top-rated items helps consumers navigate a crowded marketplace. The selection process considers crucial factors ensuring the featured items meet high standards of quality and performance, saving shoppers time and effort in their search for the perfect product. This curated list simplifies decision-making, offering a starting point for informed purchases.

1. Superhero Retractable Eyeliner: Waterproof, Smudge-Proof, with Nourishing Oils.

All-day wear, smudge-proof, and effortless application—amazing!

Superhero Retractable Eyeliner: Waterproof, Smudge-Proof, with Nourishing Oils.

IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Retractable Eyeliner delivers intense, saturated color with effortless application. This innovative waterproof eyeliner, developed with plastic surgeons and dermatologists, features a revolutionary no-tug technology for a super-smooth glide, eliminating the need for sharpening. Infused with skin-loving ingredients like avocado oil, chamomile extract, and Vitamin E, it provides all-day wear without smudging. Simply twist the pencil to reveal more product and apply along your lash line or inner rims. Pair it with the IT Cosmetics Superhero Elastic Stretch Volumizing Mascara for a truly eye-opening look. Its convenient retractable design and long-lasting formula make it a must-have for achieving a flawless, impactful eye look.

This IT Cosmetics eyeliner is a game-changer! Users rave about its incredibly smooth application and long-lasting wear, with many noting that their eye makeup looks just as sharp at the end of the day as it did in the morning – no smudging or puddling under the eyes! The convenient built-in sharpener is a major plus, making precise application and blending a breeze. While some users with sensitive eyes experienced minor irritation (easily mitigated with eye drops), the overwhelming consensus points to its exceptional staying power, even for those with watery eyes or demanding lifestyles (like mobile dog groomers!). The rich, classic black color delivers intense definition, and the formula's impressive longevity surpasses many other eyeliners, despite a slightly higher price point. Overall, this eyeliner is a superior choice for achieving all-day, smudge-proof eye definition.

  • Rate: 4.6 / 501
Outstanding features:
  • No-Tug Application
  • Waterproof & Smudge-proof
  • Retractible (No Sharpening Needed)
Context of use:
  • Everyday makeup routine
  • Special events or occasions
  • Water sports or activities

2. e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner (Vegan & Cruelty-Free)

Pigmented, long-lasting, and easy application—a game-changer!

e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner (Vegan & Cruelty-Free)
    Highly rated
  • Quality
    Some controversy about
  • Application ease
  • Color quality
  • Value for money
  • Longevity

Make a bold statement with e.l.f.'s No Budge Retractable Eyeliner in Black. This creamy, ultra-pigmented, and waterproof eyeliner delivers intense, defined lines that last all day. Its retractable design and easy application make it perfect for creating sharp looks along the lash line and waterline, or smudging for a smoky effect. The 0.006 oz liner boasts ultimate staying power – simply let it set for 30 seconds for a budge-proof finish. Best of all, this vegan and cruelty-free formula, certified by Leaping Bunny, offers professional-quality results at an affordable price, making it a must-have for any makeup bag.

The e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner is a game-changer! Users rave about its incredibly smooth application and intense pigmentation, surpassing even high-end brands (one user specifically compared it favorably to a popular line by a redhead beauty mogul!). This creamy, ultra-pigmented eyeliner provides long-lasting wear, staying put all day and night, even through sweat and heat – a true testament to its "no budge" claim. The retractable design is a convenient plus, preventing tip breakage. Many users highlight its ease of application and blending, while the rich color is perfect for both everyday wear and creating dramatic looks. While some experienced minor smudging or an allergic reaction (individual sensitivities can vary), the overwhelming consensus points to this eyeliner as a fantastic value, delivering exceptional quality and long-lasting performance for a surprisingly affordable price. It's become a makeup bag staple for many, proving itself a reliable and beautiful addition to any makeup routine.

  • Brand: e.l.f.
  • Color: Black
  • Finish Type: Natural
  • Item Form: Pencil,Creamy
  • Rate: 4.4 / 23996
Outstanding features:
  • Waterproof & Long-lasting
  • Creamy, Ultra-Pigmented
  • Retractable & Easy to Use
Context of use:
  • Everyday makeup routine
  • Special events/nights out
  • Creating dramatic or smoky eye looks

3. Wet n Wild MegaLast Waterproof Retractable Eyeliner (Blackest Black)

Budget-friendly, long-lasting, intensely pigmented eyeliner—a total game-changer!

Wet n Wild MegaLast Waterproof Retractable Eyeliner (Blackest Black)
    Highly rated
  • Value for money
  • Ease of application
  • Eyeliner quality
  • Stay power
  • Pigment quality
    Some controversy about
  • Durability
  • Water resistance
  • Smudge resistance

Introducing the wet n wild MegaLast Breakup Proof Retractable Eyeliner in Blackest Black – your new secret weapon for effortlessly stunning eyes. This ultra-fine, retractable eyeliner boasts a smudge-proof, flake-proof, and cry-proof satin gel formula that delivers 16-hour long-lasting wear. Its intensely pigmented, waterproof formula glides on smoothly without tugging, creating bold, defined lines with ease. Vegan and cruelty-free, this eyeliner is perfect for creating any look, from subtle everyday elegance to dramatic, show-stopping styles. Experience the ultimate in long-lasting, comfortable wear with this must-have addition to your makeup bag.

The Wet n Wild MegaLast Breakup-Proof Waterproof Retractable Eyeliner is a game-changer, delivering professional-level results at an unbelievably affordable price. Users consistently praise its incredibly smooth application, creating bold, defined lines with ease, even on aging or sensitive skin. The intense black pigment is truly remarkable, far surpassing expectations for a drugstore brand. Its long-lasting, waterproof formula resists smudging and fading, even through water activities, sweat, and long days. The retractable design is a significant advantage, eliminating messy sharpening and adding to its convenience. Many users, including those who have tried high-end brands like Urban Decay, consider this their absolute favorite eyeliner, citing its superior staying power and ease of use. While some users found it a bit dry or too thick for winged liner, the overwhelming consensus points to this eyeliner as a top performer – a budget-friendly masterpiece that rivals much pricier competitors. It's a perfect addition to any makeup bag, for both everyday wear and special occasions.

  • Brand: wet n wild
  • Color: Blackest Black
  • Finish Type: Matte
  • Item Form: Pencil
  • Rate: 4.4 / 29663
Outstanding features:
  • Waterproof
  • 16-Hour Long-Lasting Wear
  • Ultra-Fine Brush
Context of use:
  • Everyday wear for a long-lasting, smudge-proof look
  • Special occasions requiring all-day waterproof makeup
  • Active lifestyles needing sweat- and water-resistant eyeliner

4. Rimmel London Exaggerate Waterproof Black Eyeliner with Smudger

Smooth, long-lasting color; effortless application, all-day wear.

Rimmel London Exaggerate Waterproof Black Eyeliner with Smudger
    Highly rated
  • Color
  • Eyeliner quality
  • Ease of application
  • Value for money
  • Sturdiness
    Some controversy about
  • Longevity
  • Smudge resistance
  • Waterproof

Create dramatic, smoldering eyes with Rimmel London Exaggerate Waterproof Eye Definer in 262, Blackest Black. This highly pigmented, long-lasting eyeliner (up to 10 hours!) features a creamy, retractable pencil with a built-in smudger for effortless blending, from subtle smoky eyes to precise winged liner. Its self-sharpening tip ensures high-precision lines, while the waterproof formula resists sweat, heat, and humidity. Achieve intense color payoff with this easy-to-apply eyeliner, perfect for creating any look. The intensely pigmented shade, "Blackest Black," delivers instant impact. Experience the Rimmel London edge with this must-have product.

This Rimmel eyeliner is a long-lasting, creamy dream! Users rave about its smooth, effortless application, praising its ability to create both subtle and dramatic looks, from a quick smokey eye to a precise line. The built-in sharpener and smudger are incredibly convenient, adding to its ease of use. Many appreciate the range of colors available, noting the perfect balance of pigment and wearability, even for sensitive eyes. Its waterproof formula ensures all-day wear, resisting smudging and fading, while remaining easily removable with soap and water. Customers consistently highlight its exceptional value for the quality, making it a go-to choice for years. While some users experienced smudging in isolated instances, the overwhelmingly positive feedback points to this eyeliner as a reliable, versatile, and high-performing addition to any makeup bag.

  • Brand: Rimmel
  • Color: Blackest Black
  • Finish Type: Metallic,Matte
  • Item Form: Pencil
  • Rate: 4.5 / 20705
Outstanding features:
  • Waterproof formula for long-lasting wear (up to 10 hours)
  • Intensely pigmented color for high impact
  • Built-in smudger for versatile application
Context of use:
  • Everyday makeup routine
  • Evening events or parties
  • Sporting events or outdoor activities

5. NYX Professional Vivid Rich Creamy Black Retractable Eyeliner

Intense color, creamy, long-lasting, and surprisingly affordable!

NYX Professional Vivid Rich Creamy Black Retractable Eyeliner
    Highly rated
  • Functionality
  • Color quality
  • Longevity
  • Ease of application
  • Value for money
  • Softness
    Some controversy about
  • Smudge resistance
  • Breakability

Create effortlessly stunning eye looks with the NYX Professional Makeup Mechanical Eye Pencil in Always Onyx. This creamy, retractable eyeliner boasts intense, smudge-proof pigment that rivals liquid liner, lasting all day without bleeding or smudging—perfect for even winged eyeliner. Simply twist up the pencil for application, eliminating the need for sharpening. Part of NYX's cruelty-free and PETA-certified range of eye makeup, which includes eyeshadow palettes, concealers, and setting sprays, this black eyeliner is ideal for achieving a defined, intense gaze. Complete your look with other NYX Professional Makeup products for a flawless finish.

The NYX Professional Makeup Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil delivers intense color payoff and a creamy, smooth application that's easy to blend, making it perfect for creating bold eye looks. Users rave about its impressive staying power; many report it lasting all day without smudging or fading, significantly outperforming higher-priced competitors. The "Moonstone" shade, described as a gorgeous bronze, is particularly praised for its flattering effect. While some users noted the pencil's softness might lead to occasional breakage or the need for careful application to prevent smearing, the overall consensus points to the rich pigmentation, ease of use, and exceptional longevity as undeniable advantages. The affordable price is also a major plus, making this a winning combination of quality, performance, and value.

  • Brand: NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP
  • Color: 16 Always Onyx
  • Finish Type: Creamy
  • Item Form: Pencil,Creamy
  • Rate: 4.5 / 98088
Outstanding features:
  • Retractable and easy to use: No sharpening needed, simply twist up for application.
  • Intense, long-lasting color: Creamy formula provides vibrant pigment that lasts all day.
  • Smudge-proof and smooth application: Glides on effortlessly for a precise line.
Context of use:
  • Creating a makeup tutorial video
  • Demonstrating product application techniques
  • Showcasing the product's long-lasting wear