Here's a breakdown and where to find them:
1. Gel Liner:
* Why it's good: Gel liners provide intense pigment and excellent staying power. They usually come in a pot and require a brush for application. They set to a smudge-proof finish.
* Application Tips: Ensure the lid is sealed tightly after each use to prevent the gel from drying out.
* Where to find it:
* Drugstores: Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner, L'Oreal Paris Infallible Gel Lacquer Liner
* Sephora/Ulta: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner, Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel, Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Longwear Gel Eyeliner
* Department Stores: MAC Fluidline
2. Liquid Liner (Especially Pen Liners):
* Why it's good: Liquid liners offer a precise, sharp line and are often very long-wearing. Pen liners are easier to apply for beginners than traditional brush applicators. Look for "waterproof" and "long-wearing" formulations.
* Application Tips: Apply in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. This helps prevent cracking and flaking.
* Where to find it:
* Drugstores: NYX Epic Ink Liner, Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Eyeliner
* Sephora/Ulta: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner, KVD Beauty Tattoo Liner, Fenty Beauty Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner
* Department Stores: Lancôme Artliner Precision Point Eyeliner
3. Waterproof Pencil Liner (less reliable than gel or liquid, but can work with the right formula and prep):
* Why it can be good (with caveats): Easier to apply for many people. Look for formulations specifically designed to be waterproof and long-wearing.
* Key is setting it: Immediately after applying, set the pencil liner with a powder eyeshadow of a similar color. This will significantly improve its staying power.
* Where to find it:
* Drugstores: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil (good reviews for staying power, but still benefit from setting with shadow), Covergirl Perfect Point Plus Eyeliner (budget-friendly)
* Sephora/Ulta: MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Resist Color Pencil, NARS High-Pigment Longwear Eyeliner
* Department Stores: Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof Long-Lasting Eyeliner
Tips to Prevent Eyeliner from Running (Regardless of the Type):
* Prep Your Lids: This is *crucial*. Use an eyelid primer before applying any eyeliner. Primer creates a smooth, oil-free base for the liner to adhere to. Popular choices include:
* Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion
* NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
* Milani Eyeshadow Primer
* Set with Eyeshadow: As mentioned above, even the best liners can benefit from being set with a powder eyeshadow of a similar shade. Gently pat the eyeshadow over the liner with a small, angled brush.
* Blot Excess Oil: Throughout the day, gently blot any excess oil from your eyelids with blotting papers.
* Consider "Tightlining": Tightlining (applying eyeliner to the upper waterline) can sometimes cause eyeliner to migrate and smudge. If you struggle with this, avoid tightlining or use a very small amount of waterproof gel liner specifically formulated for the waterline (look for "waterline safe" on the label). Also make sure to clean the area well before applying.
* Powder Under the Eyes: Dust a light layer of translucent powder under your eyes to catch any potential fallout or smudging.
* Experiment: Not all eyeliners work the same way for everyone. It might take some trial and error to find the perfect formula and application technique that works best for your skin type and lifestyle.
Important Considerations:
* Skin Type: Oily skin is the biggest culprit for eyeliner running. If you have oily lids, prioritize prepping with a good primer and setting with powder.
* Humidity: Humid climates can also contribute to eyeliner running. Look for formulas specifically designed to withstand humidity.
* Waterline Application: If you plan to apply eyeliner to your waterline, make sure the formula is safe for that area.
By choosing a waterproof formula, prepping your lids, setting the liner with powder, and blotting any excess oil throughout the day, you can significantly reduce the chances of your eyeliner running.