The Best Eyeliner Pencil for Every Look: A UK Buyer’s Guide
Finding the right eyeliner pencil can completely change how your makeup looks and lasts through the day. Some people search for this product as an “eyeball pencil” or an “eye eyeliner pencil,” but whatever you call it, the pencil you choose matters just as much as the technique you use. In this guide, we’ll walk through what actually makes a good eyeliner pencil, how to pick one that suits your eye shape and skin type, and the mistakes worth avoiding.
What Makes a Good Eyeliner Pencil?
Not all eyeliner pencils are built the same. A good eyeliner pencil should glide on smoothly without tugging at the delicate skin around your eyes, hold its colour without fading by lunchtime, and be easy to control for both thin and thick lines.
The 3 things worth checking before you buy:
- Formula. Creamy pencils are easier to smudge for a soft, smoky look, while harder, waxier pencils give more precision and last longer without smudging.
- Tip shape. A fine tip suits precise lines and waterlines, while a slightly thicker tip is better for bold, winged looks.
- Longevity. Look for “waterproof” or “long wear” on the label if you want something that survives a full UK day, from morning rain to evening drinks.
Choosing the Right Eyeliner Pencil for Your Eye Shape
The best eyeliner pencil for you depends partly on your eye shape.
Hooded eyes. A soft, blendable pencil works better than a hard, precise one, since you’ll likely want to smudge the line rather than keep it sharp.
Almond eyes. Almost any formula works well here, so this is a good shape to experiment with bolder colours or a winged flick.
Round eyes. A pencil with a fine tip helps you create a subtle wing that elongates the eye, rather than a thick line that can make eyes look smaller.
Monolid eyes. A waterproof, smudge resistant pencil (sometimes labelled as an eyeball pencil in casual searches) is worth prioritising, since the liner sits closer to the lash line and can transfer more easily.
Waterline vs. Upper Lash Line
Yes, this is one area where it’s worth having two different pencils rather than one. A pencil formulated for the waterline is usually softer and specifically designed to be gentle on sensitive, mucous membrane skin.
Using a standard eyeliner pencil (meant for the upper lash line) on your waterline can feel dry, tug at the skin, or fade within an hour. If you want your look to genuinely last, check the packaging specifies it’s safe for waterline use.
Colour Choice: Beyond Classic Black
Black is the obvious starting point, but a few other shades are worth having in your collection.
- Brown. Softer and more forgiving for daytime looks, especially for lighter eye colours.
- Navy. Makes brown eyes appear brighter without the harshness of black.
- Bronze or gold. Adds a subtle warmth to the waterline or lower lash line.
- White or nude. Widens the eyes and works well on the inner corner or waterline.
Sharpening and Maintenance Tips
A blunt eyeliner pencil is much harder to control. Sharpen before every use if you want a precise line, and always use a proper cosmetic pencil sharpener rather than a standard stationery one, as it’s designed to prevent the wood or plastic casing from cracking. If your pencil feels dry or drags on application, a quick swipe against the back of your hand can warm it slightly and make it glide more easily.
