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10 Best Waterproof Eyeliners 2025 in the UK

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Rimmel London Soft Kohl Smudge-proof Eyeliner Pencil, Jet black, 1.2 g

Formula: Soft, blendable
Pigmentation: Intense color
Applicator Type: Pencil
Longevity: Up to 12 hours
Smudge-proof: Yes
Ease of Removal: Easy

Chosen by 1390 this week

Rimmel London Scandaleyes Exaggerate Eye Definer, 001 Intense Black, 0.35g

Formula: Gluten Free
Pigmentation: highly pigmented
Applicator Type: retractable tip
Longevity: up to 24 hours
Smudge-proof: yes
Ease of Removal: needs robust makeup remover
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Rimmel London Soft Kohl Smudge-proof Eyeliner Pencil, Jet black, 1.2 g

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,390
Formula
Pigmentation
Applicator Type
Formula
Effortlessly creates both thin and thick lines with its creamy formula, without any tugging or skipping.
Pigmentation
The color payoff is amazing, providing a deep, rich black that makes your eyes pop with just one stroke.
Applicator Type
The eyeliner glides smoothly and is convenient to use, offering a lovely color that enhances the eyes.
Longevity
Exceeds expectations with its longevity, staying put all day without smudging, fading, or transferring.
Smudge-proof
It's waterproof and can confidently be worn through tears, rain, or even a dip in the pool.
Ease of Removal
Despite its staying power, it's surprisingly easy to remove at the end of the day without harsh rubbing.

The Rimmel London Soft Kohl Smudge-proof Eyeliner Pencil in Jet Black is a popular choice for those seeking intense color and a smudge-proof finish in their eyeliner. Its soft, blendable formula makes it ideal for achieving a smoky look, and it offers full coverage with a satin finish that is also paraben-free. The eyeliner is designed to last up to 12 hours, providing a long-wear solution that is resistant to stains and fading.

This makes it suitable for a full day without much need for touch-ups, which is a significant advantage for those who need longevity. The pencil form allows for precise application, although some users might prefer a liquid or gel for even sharper lines. While the eyeliner is promoted as smudge-proof, users should note that being a pencil format, it might not be as waterproof as gel or liquid options, which could be a consideration in very moist conditions.

On the plus side, the ease of removal is a benefit, ensuring that it can be taken off without much hassle at the end of the day. Dermatologist and ophthalmologist testing add an extra layer of comfort for those concerned about skin and eye sensitivity. It's a strong contender for anyone looking for an easy-to-use, bold eyeliner that fits well into daily makeup routines, particularly for those who appreciate a softer look and want to avoid harsh chemicals like parabens.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,390
Formula
Pigmentation
Applicator Type
Formula
Effortlessly creates both thin and thick lines with its creamy formula, without any tugging or skipping.
Pigmentation
The color payoff is amazing, providing a deep, rich black that makes your eyes pop with just one stroke.
Applicator Type
The eyeliner glides smoothly and is convenient to use, offering a lovely color that enhances the eyes.
Longevity
Exceeds expectations with its longevity, staying put all day without smudging, fading, or transferring.
Smudge-proof
It's waterproof and can confidently be worn through tears, rain, or even a dip in the pool.
Ease of Removal
Despite its staying power, it's surprisingly easy to remove at the end of the day without harsh rubbing.
#2

Rimmel London Scandaleyes Exaggerate Eye Definer, 001 Intense Black, 0.35g

Rating
10.0
Formula
Pigmentation
Applicator Type
Formula
This eyeliner is very easy to use, offering a soft application that doesn't melt away, ensuring good staying power whether applied as a thin or thick line.
Pigmentation
The eyeliner glides on smoothly, lasting all day without needing touch-ups, and the brown shade is flattering and softer than black.
Applicator Type
With its twist-up crayon design, it offers convenience without the need for sharpening, and users would definitely purchase it again.

The Rimmel London Scandaleyes Exaggerate Eye Definer in Intense Black offers a rich color payoff that delivers a high-impact look, making it an excellent choice for those who love bold and dramatic eye makeup. Its ultra-creamy texture ensures effortless application, and the retractable automatic tip is convenient for storage and easy use without needing a sharpener.

As a waterproof and smudge-proof eyeliner, it meets the expectation for longevity, lasting up to 24 hours without transferring or smudging, which is a significant advantage for busy individuals or those with long days. Applying it on the waterline further enhances its versatility for creating bold lines, making it suitable for various eye makeup styles. The pigmentation is impressive, providing full coverage with a metallic finish that stands out.

One potential drawback is its ease of removal; while its long-lasting formula is beneficial for wear, it may require a more robust makeup remover to be fully removed. This product is best suited for people seeking a durable, highly pigmented eyeliner that can withstand water and smudging, ideal for both everyday wear and special occasions. Its gluten-free formula and ease of application make it accessible and user-friendly, although care should be taken when removing it to avoid any discomfort.

Rating
10.0
Formula
Pigmentation
Applicator Type
Formula
This eyeliner is very easy to use, offering a soft application that doesn't melt away, ensuring good staying power whether applied as a thin or thick line.
Pigmentation
The eyeliner glides on smoothly, lasting all day without needing touch-ups, and the brown shade is flattering and softer than black.
Applicator Type
With its twist-up crayon design, it offers convenience without the need for sharpening, and users would definitely purchase it again.
#3

e.l.f. Intense H20 Proof Eyeliner Pen, Smooth, Precise, Defines, Enhances, Intensifies, Waterproof, Black, Smudge-Proof 0.7 ml, 1 Count (Pack of 1)

Rating
9.7
Formula
Applicator Type
Longevity
Formula
Quick-drying formula that lasts all day and night.
Applicator Type
An easy-to-use pen style that draws a lovely black bold line and wing, barely budges, and doesn't smudge unless you really work at it.
Longevity
Precision application and can withstand almost a full day's wear.
Smudge-proof
An easy-to-use pen style that draws a lovely black bold line and wing, barely budges, and doesn't smudge unless you really work at it.

The e.l.f. Intense H20 Proof Eyeliner Pen is a noteworthy option for those seeking a waterproof eyeliner. Its formula is designed to be smudge-proof and quick-drying, making it suitable for long-lasting wear without constant touch-ups. The pigmentation is described as intense, providing a bold black line that can enhance and define the eyes effectively. The felt tip applicator allows for precision in application, whether you prefer a thin or thick line, catering to different styles and preferences. Additionally, the product is cruelty-free and vegan, appealing to ethical consumers.

However, while the eyeliner boasts a long-lasting formula, ease of removal is not highlighted, which might suggest it requires a bit more effort to take off at the end of the day. The semi-matte finish may not suit those looking for either a completely matte or glossy look. Moreover, as a liquid eyeliner, it may present a learning curve for beginners who are not accustomed to using a felt tip pen. Despite these minor drawbacks, this eyeliner is a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable, everyday waterproof eyeliner.

Rating
9.7
Formula
Applicator Type
Longevity
Formula
Quick-drying formula that lasts all day and night.
Applicator Type
An easy-to-use pen style that draws a lovely black bold line and wing, barely budges, and doesn't smudge unless you really work at it.
Longevity
Precision application and can withstand almost a full day's wear.
Smudge-proof
An easy-to-use pen style that draws a lovely black bold line and wing, barely budges, and doesn't smudge unless you really work at it.

Buying Guide for the Best Waterproof Eyeliners

Choosing the right waterproof eyeliner can be a game-changer for your makeup routine, especially if you have oily eyelids, live in a humid climate, or simply want your eyeliner to last all day without smudging. To find the best fit for you, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your personal needs and preferences.
FormulaThe formula of an eyeliner determines its texture, ease of application, and staying power. Waterproof eyeliners come in various formulas such as gel, liquid, pencil, and felt-tip. Gel formulas are creamy and glide on smoothly, making them great for creating bold lines. Liquid eyeliners offer precision and are ideal for sharp, defined looks. Pencil eyeliners are versatile and easy to use, perfect for everyday wear. Felt-tip eyeliners combine the precision of liquid liners with the ease of a pen. Choose a formula based on your comfort level and the type of look you want to achieve.
PigmentationPigmentation refers to the color payoff of the eyeliner. Highly pigmented eyeliners provide intense, vibrant color with just one swipe, while less pigmented ones may require multiple layers to achieve the desired effect. If you prefer a bold, dramatic look, opt for a highly pigmented eyeliner. For a more subtle, natural appearance, a less pigmented option might be more suitable. Consider your daily makeup routine and the occasions you plan to wear the eyeliner to determine the right level of pigmentation for you.
Applicator TypeThe applicator type can significantly impact the ease of use and the precision of your eyeliner application. Common applicator types include brush tips, felt tips, and pencil tips. Brush tips offer flexibility and are great for creating fine lines and intricate designs. Felt tips provide more control and are ideal for beginners or those who prefer a steady hand. Pencil tips are straightforward and user-friendly, making them a good choice for quick, everyday application. Choose an applicator type that matches your skill level and the style of eyeliner you prefer.
LongevityLongevity refers to how long the eyeliner lasts without fading, smudging, or flaking. Waterproof eyeliners are designed to withstand water, sweat, and tears, making them ideal for long wear. However, the longevity can vary between products. If you need your eyeliner to last through a long day or special event, look for products that specifically mention long-lasting or 24-hour wear. Consider your daily activities and how long you need your eyeliner to stay put when choosing a product with the right longevity.
Smudge-proofSmudge-proof eyeliners are designed to resist smearing and transferring, which is especially important for those with oily eyelids or who touch their eyes frequently. A good smudge-proof eyeliner will stay in place even in humid conditions or during physical activity. If you have a busy lifestyle or need your eyeliner to stay flawless throughout the day, prioritize smudge-proof options. Test the product on your hand or read reviews to ensure it meets your smudge-proof expectations.
Ease of RemovalWhile waterproof eyeliners are designed to stay put, it's also important to consider how easy they are to remove at the end of the day. Some waterproof formulas can be stubborn and require a strong makeup remover or oil-based cleanser. If you prefer a hassle-free removal process, look for eyeliners that are labeled as easy to remove or come off with gentle cleansers. Consider your skincare routine and the products you already use to find an eyeliner that fits seamlessly into your makeup removal process.