Looking for the best eyeliner pens in 2025? Discover top smudge-free, long-lasting picks, easy tips, and beginner-friendly options to create perfect wings every time.

Introduction: Why Eyeliner Pens Are So Popular

Eyeliner is one of the most loved makeup products in the world. In 2025, eyeliner pens will be more popular than ever. Why? Because they are easy to use, quick to apply, and perfect for making sharp lines or pretty wings. Unlike liquid bottles or gel pots, eyeliner pens look like markers. You just open the cap, draw your line, and you’re ready.

The best eyeliner pens are smudge-free, long-lasting, and simple to handle, even for beginners. In this article, we’ll explore the top eyeliner pens of 2025, what makes them great, how to use them, and tips to keep your eyeliner looking fresh all day.

What Makes a Good Eyeliner Pen?

When searching for the best eyeliner pen, there are a few things to check:

1. Smudge-Free Formula – No one wants eyeliner that melts or spreads.
2. Long-Lasting Power – A good pen stays put from morning to night.
3. Easy to Apply – The tip should glide smoothly without skipping.
4. Waterproof Option – Great for humid weather or watery eyes.
5. Pigment Power – Dark, rich color for bold looks.

Why Choose an Eyeliner Pen Over Other Types?

• Pencils are soft but can smudge easily.
• Gel liners are bold but need a brush.
• Liquid liners in bottles can be messy for beginners.

But eyeliner pens combine the best of all worlds: they’re clean, easy to hold, and deliver sharp lines with control. That’s why they are the top choice in 2025.

Top 10 Best Eyeliner Pens of 2025

Here are the top picks, tested and loved by beauty fans, makeup artists, and everyday users.

1) Stila Stay All Day — best overall for crisp, all-day wings

Why it stands out: Stila’s classic Stay All Day formulation is celebrated for a super-fine tip and ink-like pigment that dries quickly into a smudge-resistant line. Makeup editors frequently list it among the best liquid eyeliners for precision and longevity. 

Who should buy: Anyone who wants a reliable, time-tested liner for work, events, or humid climates.

Pros: Long-wearing; sharp tip for precise wings.
Cons: Premium price vs. drugstore options; heavy rubbing or streaming tears can still challenge any liner.

2) Maybelline Hyper Easy — best drugstore pick for steady hands & beginners

Why it stands out: Maybelline’s Hyper Easy features a flex tip and ergonomic grip designed to reduce skipping and shaking, a small but practical innovation that makes winged liner easier to draw. Editors and shoppers praise its value and accessibility. 

Who should buy: Beginners, budget buyers, or anyone wanting a fuss-free pen with consistent ink flow.

Pros: Smooth glide; affordable; widely available.
Cons: Some users report the tip softens over time; may not be as intensely waterproof as high-end liners.

3) NYX Epic Ink — best budget performer with pro payoff

Why it stands out: A top drugstore favorite, NYX Epic Ink balances bold pigment and a flexible tip to deliver professional-looking wings without the splurge. Many beauty roundups and reviewers recommend it as a staple starter pen. 

Who should buy: Budget-conscious shoppers who want a pigmented pen that won’t let them down.

Pros: High pigment, affordable, great color range.
Cons: Some users find the formula very wet at first (practice needed), and pen longevity can vary.

4) Luxury & editor favorite liners (Pat McGrath, Chanel, etc.)

High-end brands show up on many “best of” lists because of superior ink flow, finely tapered tips, and formulations designed to perform under professional lights. If you’re building a pro kit or want a splurge that performs, editor picks from luxury houses are worth testing.

Who should buy: Makeup artists, beauty enthusiasts, and people seeking the most refined tips and exclusive finishes.

5) Clean / sensitive-skin options (Ilia, mineral formulas)

If you have sensitive or reactive eyes, prioritize clean formulations (fragrance-free, minimal irritants). Clean-beauty liquid liners have come a long way and now offer comparable staying power while being gentler on lids.

Who should buy: People with sensitive skin, contact lens wearers, or those avoiding certain ingredients.

6. Pat McGrath Precision Liquid Liner

• Luxury eyeliner with a fine, high-quality tip.
• Smooth ink flow for exact lines.
• Lasts through long nights and special events.

Best For: Makeup lovers who want luxury results.

7. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner

• Thin 0.4mm tip for super fine lines.
• Drugstore price but pro-quality.
• Perfect for tightlining (lining very close to lashes).

Best For: Natural looks and thin lines.

8. Benefit Roller Liner Eyeliner Pen

• Matte finish that looks clean and modern.
• Easy to control and doesn’t tug the skin.
• Great for daytime makeup.

Best For: Soft, matte looks.

9. Ilia Clean Line Liquid Eyeliner

• A “clean beauty” option with safe ingredients.
• Great for people with sensitive eyes.
• Still gives bold lines that last.

Best For: Sensitive skin or clean-beauty fans.

10. Sephora Collection Brush Tip Liquid Liner

• Affordable and easy to find at Sephora.
• Brush tips help with smooth strokes.
• Long-lasting for a budget-friendly choice.

Best For: Everyday makeup at a low price.

How to Apply Eyeliner Pen Like a Pro (Step-by-Step)

1. Prep Your Eyes – Wash your face and dry your lids. Add a little primer or powder so the eyeliner grips well.
2. Start Small – Begin with short strokes along the lash line. Don’t try one long line at first.
3. Make the Wing – Draw a tiny line outward from the corner of your eye. Connect it back to your lash line.
4. Fill In Gaps – Color in any spaces between the lines.
5. Clean Up – Use a cotton swab with makeup remover to sharpen the edges.

Common Eyeliner Problems (And Easy Fixes)

• Shaky Hands? Steady your hand by placing your elbow on a flat surface while applying eyeliner.
• Smudging? Use a waterproof pen and set with powder.
• Uneven Wings? Practice on paper or use tape for a guide.
• Pen Drying Out? Store it flat instead of upright.

Eyeliner Trends in 2025

This year, eyeliner is not just black. Here’s what’s trending:

• Bold Colors – Blue, green, and purple liners are in style.
• Double Wings – Two flicks instead of one for extra drama.
• Minimal Liner – Thin, barely-there lines for natural beauty.
• Graphic Shapes – Makeup artists are creating creative designs.

Tips to Make Your Eyeliner Last Longer

• Always apply on clean, dry lids.
• Use an eye primer before eyeliner.
• Don’t rub your eyes during the day.
• Carry cotton swabs for quick fixes.
• Replace old pens every 3–6 months.

Eyeliner Pen Care: How to Keep It Fresh

• Cap It Right Away – Never leave the pen open.
• Store Flat – This helps the ink flow evenly.
• Shake Gently – Before use, shake the pen for smooth ink.
• Don’t Pump the Tip – This can damage it.

Conclusion: The Best Eyeliner Pen for You

The best eyeliner pen depends on your needs. If you want long-lasting power, go for Stila Stay All Day. If you’re a beginner, Maybelline Hyper Easy is a great start. For budget-friendly picks, NYX Epic Ink is amazing. And if you love luxury makeup, Pat McGrath or Fenty Beauty will make your wings stand out.

In 2025, eyeliner pens are all about smudge-free, long-lasting looks. With the right pen and a little practice, you can create wings, lines, and styles that last all day.

So, pick your favorite from this list, try out some new trends, and let your eyes do the talking!

FAQs About Eyeliner Pens

Q: Are eyeliner pens good for beginners?
Yes! They are easier than brushes or gels. Pens give more control.

Q: Which eyeliner pen lasts the longest?
Stila Stay All Day and Kat Von D Tattoo Liner are famous for long wear.

Q: Can I use an eyeliner pen on my lower lash line?
You can, but it may smudge more. Use lightly or pick waterproof formulas.Q: How often should I replace my eyeliner pen?
Every 3–6 months for safety and smooth ink flow.