Mastering the Magic Wand: Unveiling the Best Crayon Eyeliner for Mesmerizing Eyes

Hello, fellow beauty enthusiasts! As your dedicated eye makeup specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience and a proud content creator for ibcre.com, I’m thrilled to dive deep into a true gem in every makeup bag: the crayon eyeliner. Often overlooked in favor of its liquid or gel counterparts, the Best Crayon Eyeliner can be a game-changer, offering an unparalleled blend of versatility, ease of application, and intense color payoff. If you’ve been on the fence about these creamy wonders, prepare to have your mind, and your eyes, opened!

We all strive for that perfect eye look, whether it’s a subtle tightline or a dramatic wing. And let’s be honest, not every day calls for the precision of a liquid liner or the intensity of a gel pot. That’s where a high-quality crayon eyeliner steps in. It’s the ultimate tool for effortlessly enhancing your gaze, providing the perfect balance of blendability and staying power.

What Makes Crayon Eyeliner So Special?

Crayon eyeliners, often known as gel pencils or kohl liners, are characterized by their creamy, glide-on texture. Unlike traditional wax-based pencils that can drag and skip, crayon formulas are typically infused with emollients and pigments that allow for smooth, effortless application. This creamy consistency makes them incredibly forgiving, especially for beginners or those hurried morning routines.

Why should you consider adding the best crayon eyeliner to your kit?

• Ease of Use: They glide on without tugging, making application swift and simple.
• Versatility: Perfect for tightlining, smudging for a smoky effect, or creating sharp lines.
• Intense Pigmentation: Many offer rich, vibrant color in just one swipe.
• Comfort: The smooth texture is gentle on the delicate skin around your eyes.
• Longevity: Modern formulas are often designed to be long-wearing, waterproof, and smudge-proof once set.

Navigating the Labyrinth: How to Choose the Best Crayon Eyeliner

With countless options flooding the market, how do you pick the perfect one for you? Selecting the best crayon eyeliner involves understanding a few key factors that contribute to its performance and suitability for your needs.

What should you look for in a crayon eyeliner?

When you’re on the hunt for your next favorite, consider these essential attributes:

1. Pigmentation: A truly great crayon eyeliner should deliver intense color with minimal effort. You shouldn’t have to layer it multiple times to achieve a rich, opaque line. Test it on the back of your hand; the color should appear vibrant and true to shade in a single swipe.
2. Longevity and Staying Power: Nobody wants their eyeliner to vanish by midday or smudge into raccoon eyes. Look for formulas that boast “long-wearing,” “12-hour wear,” or “all-day” claims. Waterproof and smudge-proof properties are crucial, especially if you have oily eyelids, watery eyes, or live in a humid climate.
3. Creaminess and Glide: The hallmark of a crayon eyeliner is its smooth application. It should glide effortlessly across your lash line without any tugging, pulling, or skipping. This not only makes application easier but also protects the delicate skin around your eyes.
4. Blendability (and Set Time): While you want it to be creamy for application, it also needs to set relatively quickly to prevent smudging. The ideal crayon eyeliner allows for a short window to blend or smudge it out for a smoky look before it locks into place for the rest of the day.
5. Sharpenability/Retractability: Some crayon eyeliners are traditional pencils that require sharpening, while others are retractable. If it’s a sharpenable pencil, ensure it sharpens cleanly without crumbling or wasting product. For retractable versions, check that the mechanism is sturdy and the tip doesn’t break easily.
6. Ingredient List: For sensitive eyes, opt for formulas that are ophthalmologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and free from irritating ingredients like parabens or fragrances.

Our Top Picks: Unveiling Some of the Best Crayon Eyeliners on the Market

Based on my extensive experience and feedback from the beauty community, certain crayon eyeliners consistently rise to the top. While personal preference plays a role, these often excel in pigmentation, longevity, and ease of use.

• Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil: This iconic liner is a cult favorite for a reason. It truly glides on like a dream, delivering intense color that stays put for 24 hours without smudging, even on the waterline.
• Marc Jacobs Highliner Gel Eye Crayon: If you’re seeking a luxurious experience with vibrant color and serious staying power, this one is exceptional. It boasts a unique gel-like consistency that offers liquid liner intensity in a pencil format.
• KVD Vegan Beauty Tattoo Pencil Liner: Inspired by their popular liquid liner, this crayon version offers impressive staying power and a rich, saturated pigment. It’s known for its waterproof and fade-proof qualities.
• NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil: For an incredibly affordable and versatile option, this creamy pencil works wonders as an eyeliner, eyeshadow base, or even an all-over eyeshadow. Its blendable texture makes it perfect for quick, impactful looks.
• Milani Stay Put Eyeliner: A fantastic drugstore option that delivers on its promise of staying power. It’s smooth, highly pigmented, and available in a range of beautiful shades, making it a great everyday choice.

“Choosing the right crayon eyeliner is like finding your perfect coffee – it has to deliver the right kick, feel comfortable, and last through your busiest day,” says makeup artist Clara Nguyễn, a long-time industry veteran. “Always test it on your hand first; if it skips there, it will definitely skip on your delicate eyelids.”

How to Apply Crayon Eyeliner Like a Pro for Every Eye Shape

One of the great advantages of crayon eyeliner is its adaptability. Here’s how to wield it to flatter different eye shapes:

Applying Crayon Eyeliner for Monolid Eyes

For monolid eyes, the key is often to create visible definition that doesn’t get swallowed by the lid.

1. Tightlining: Gently lift your upper lid and apply the crayon liner directly into the root of your upper lashes from the inner corner to the outer. This creates an illusion of fuller lashes and defines the eye without taking up too much lid space.
2. Thin Line at the Base: Draw a thin line along your upper lash line, keeping it very close to the lashes.
3. Subtle Wing: Extend the line slightly past your outer corner with a small, upward flick to elongate the eye.

Mastering Crayon Eyeliner for Hooded Eyes

Hooded eyes can make eyeliner disappear when your eyes are open. The trick is to apply liner in a way that remains visible.

1. Ultra-Thin Base: Apply a very thin line along your upper lash line, as close to the lashes as possible. Avoid thick lines, as they can make your hooded lid appear heavier.
2. Wing Above the Hood: When creating a wing, aim to draw it upwards and outwards, starting from where your lower lash line ends, so that the wing sits above the hood when your eyes are open. Connect it back to the lash line from above.
3. Focus on the Outer Corner: You can concentrate more product on the outer third of your lash line for added definition.

Defining Round Eyes with Crayon Eyeliner

Round eyes are naturally open and bright. Crayon eyeliner can help elongate them for a more almond-like appearance.

1. Inner Corner to Outer Wing: Start your line from the inner corner, keeping it thin, and gradually thicken it as you move towards the outer corner.
2. Elongating Wing: Create a longer, more horizontal wing that extends past the outer corner of your eye. This will help to visually stretch the eye outwards.
3. Lower Lash Line (Optional): A subtle line on the outer half of your lower lash line, lightly smudged, can further enhance the elongation.

Enhancing Almond Eyes with Crayon Eyeliner

Almond eyes are considered the most balanced eye shape, allowing for a wide variety of eyeliner styles.

1. Classic Definition: Start with a thin line at the inner corner and gradually thicken it as you move towards the outer corner, following the natural curve of your eye.
2. Versatile Wing: Almond eyes can pull off almost any wing style, from a subtle flick to a dramatic cat eye. Experiment with different lengths and angles to find your favorite.
3. Waterline: For added intensity, apply crayon eyeliner to your upper or lower waterline.

Tips for Long-Lasting Crayon Eyeliner

Even the best crayon eyeliner needs a little help to stay flawless all day.

• Prep with Primer: Always start with an eye primer on your eyelids. This creates a smooth canvas and helps the eyeliner adhere better and last longer.
• Set with Powder/Eyeshadow: After applying your crayon eyeliner, lightly dab a matching matte eyeshadow or translucent powder over the line with a small, flat brush. This “sets” the liner and makes it significantly more smudge-proof.
• Avoid Touching Your Eyes: Resist the urge to rub or touch your eyes throughout the day.
• Layer for Intensity: For a truly intense and long-lasting look, apply a thin layer, let it set for a few seconds, then apply another thin layer.

Common Crayon Eyeliner Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even with the best crayon eyeliner, mistakes happen. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:

Problem: Eyeliner Smudges During Application

• Cause: Your eyelids might be oily, or you’re applying too much product too quickly.
• Fix: Ensure your eyelids are clean and dry, or use a primer. Apply in short, controlled strokes and allow each section to set slightly before moving on. You can also lightly powder your lid before application.

Problem: Uneven Lines

• Cause: Unsteady hand, or trying to draw one long continuous line.
• Fix: Instead of one long stroke, use small, interconnected dashes or dots along your lash line and then connect them. Rest your elbow on a stable surface for a steadier hand.

Problem: Product Crumbling During Sharpening

• Cause: Using a dull sharpener or a sharpener not designed for makeup pencils. The pencil might also be too cold or too warm.
• Fix: Invest in a good quality cosmetic sharpener. If the pencil is too soft, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before sharpening. If it’s too hard, warm it slightly in your hands.

Problem: Eyeliner Disappears on the Waterline

• Cause: The waterline is naturally moist, making it challenging for some formulas to adhere.
• Fix: Choose crayon eyeliners specifically formulated for the waterline, often labeled as “kohl” or “waterproof.” After application, gently blot the waterline with a cotton swab to remove excess moisture.

Crayon Eyeliner vs. Its Cousins: A Quick Comparison

When choosing an eyeliner, it’s helpful to understand how crayon eyeliners stack up against other popular types.

Feature	Crayon Eyeliner (Gel Pencil)	Liquid Eyeliner	Gel Pot Eyeliner	Traditional Pencil Eyeliner
Ease of Use	Very easy, smooth glide, forgiving	Requires practice for precision	Moderate, needs a brush	Easy, but can be tugging/less pigmented
Precision	Good for sharp lines and smudging	Excellent for crisp, fine lines	Excellent for crisp lines and wings	Variable, usually less precise than liquid/gel
Pigmentation	High, often very rich and opaque	High, very intense and opaque	High, very intense and opaque	Moderate to high, can be sheer
Texture	Creamy, glides easily	Fluid, liquid	Creamy, smooth (applied with brush)	Waxy, drier
Longevity	Often long-wearing, waterproof, smudge-proof	Excellent, dries quickly, very long-lasting	Excellent, sets quickly, very long-lasting	Variable, can smudge easily
Versatility	Lines, smudges, tightlines, waterline	Sharp wings, graphic liner, defining upper lash	Sharp wings, smoky looks, tightlines	Basic lining, smudging for soft looks
Best For	Everyday, smoky eyes, quick definition, beginners	Dramatic wings, precise looks, graphic art	Professional looks, bold lines, smoky intensity	Soft definition, natural looks

Frequently Asked Questions About Crayon Eyeliner

We get a lot of questions about how to best use crayon eyeliners. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. What is the difference between crayon eyeliner and a regular pencil eyeliner?

The primary difference lies in their formulation. Crayon eyeliners, often referred to as gel pencils, have a much creamier, more emollient-rich formula that glides on smoothly with intense pigmentation. Regular pencil eyeliners are typically wax-based, tend to be firmer, and may require more pressure to apply, often resulting in a lighter color payoff.

2. Can crayon eyeliner be used on the waterline?

Yes, absolutely! Many crayon eyeliners are formulated to be safe and effective for use on the waterline. Their creamy texture makes them comfortable for this delicate area, and many are designed to be waterproof and long-lasting to combat the natural moisture of the waterline.

3. How do I sharpen a crayon eyeliner if it’s too soft?

If your crayon eyeliner is too soft and crumbles when you try to sharpen it, try placing it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before sharpening. The cold will firm up the formula, allowing for a cleaner, smoother sharpen without product waste. Always use a high-quality cosmetic sharpener.

4. Is crayon eyeliner good for creating a smoky eye?

Crayon eyeliner is fantastic for creating a smoky eye! Its creamy texture allows for easy blending and smudging immediately after application. You can draw a line, then quickly diffuse it with a smudge brush or your fingertip before it sets, creating a soft, smoky effect.

5. How do I prevent my crayon eyeliner from smudging under my eyes?

To prevent smudging, first ensure your under-eye area is prepped with a light layer of primer and set with translucent powder. After applying your crayon eyeliner, lightly set it with a matching matte eyeshadow or translucent powder. You can also use a waterproof and smudge-proof formula specifically designed for longevity.

6. Are there crayon eyeliners suitable for sensitive eyes?

Yes, many brands offer crayon eyeliners formulated for sensitive eyes. Look for products labeled as “ophthalmologist-tested,” “hypoallergenic,” or “fragrance-free.” Always check the ingredient list and consider doing a patch test on a small area of skin before full application if you have very sensitive eyes.

7. Can I use crayon eyeliner as an eyeshadow base?

Some crayon eyeliners, especially those with a thicker, more blendable texture (like the NYX Jumbo Eye Pencils), can indeed be used as an eyeshadow base. They help to intensify eyeshadow colors and improve their longevity. Apply a wash of color over the lid and blend quickly before it sets.

Elevate Your Eye Game with the Best Crayon Eyeliner

The world of eye makeup is vast and exciting, and the crayon eyeliner is a truly indispensable tool for anyone looking to achieve beautiful, defined eyes with ease. Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, finding the best crayon eyeliner for your needs can transform your routine and unlock a plethora of stunning looks. From subtle tightlining to dramatic smoky effects, its versatility and user-friendly nature make it a must-have.

Remember, the goal is always to enhance your natural beauty and feel confident in your own skin. Experiment with different formulas, shades, and application techniques. Don’t be afraid to play and discover what works best for you. At ibcre.com, we believe that informed choices lead to empowered beauty, and with the right crayon eyeliner, your eyes are ready to captivate! So go ahead, pick up that creamy pencil, and let your eyes do the talking!