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How Do I Choose the Best Waterproof Eyeliner?

Kathleen Howard
Kathleen Howard

Waterproof eyeliner is specially designed to withstand sweat, tears and other liquids. There are three main types of eyeliner: pencil, liquid and cream. To choose the best waterproof eyeliner, select a product that you are comfortable applying. You will also want to choose an eyeliner based on the color of the product, its staying power, and how well it lines the eyes. The last consideration should be the ease of which the eyeliner can be removed, as some waterproof products tend to be very difficult to remove from the skin.

When choosing eyeliner, select a product that is easy for you to apply. While waterproof liquid eyeliner tends to have the most staying power, a waterproof eyeliner pencil is usually the easiest to apply. Some people also like using cream eyeliner. Cream eyeliners are applied using a small brush and dry into the consistency of a liquid product. These products work well for people who like the look of liquid eyeliner but find it too difficult to apply.

Waterproof eyeliner is designed to withstand sweat and tears.
Waterproof eyeliner is designed to withstand sweat and tears.

Once you have selected the type of eyeliner you are most comfortable using, you will need to choose a color. Eyeliner is available in black, gray, brown, jewel tones and metallic colors. Of the neutral colors available, black eyeliner will usually create the most dramatic appearance. Brown and gray eyeliners are generally better for people who prefer a more subtle look. Jewel tones and metallics are best for creating fun, daring styles.

Waterproof eyeliner is resistant to tears, sweat, and other liquids.
Waterproof eyeliner is resistant to tears, sweat, and other liquids.

Usability and staying power are also important attributes to look for in a waterproof eyeliner. If possible, it is always a good idea to practice using an eyeliner before purchasing a particular product. Trying an eyeliner is the best way to determine the smoothness of the product, how well it defines the eyes, and how easily it smudges. Once you have put on the eyeliner, try to smudge the product with a small amount of water. If the eyeliner runs easily, it might not be a good choice for hot or rainy days.

Failing to wear waterproof eyeliner when it rains – or when sweating or crying – can cause the makeup to run and smudge.
Failing to wear waterproof eyeliner when it rains – or when sweating or crying – can cause the makeup to run and smudge.

The last factor to consider is how easily a waterproof eyeliner comes off. Some products can be removed with soap and water, while others must be removed using an oil-based makeup remover. Since removing eyeliner is essential in preserving the skin and avoiding infection, choose a product that is reasonably easy to get off. Eyeliner that is very difficult to remove might leave behind residue or irritate the sensitive eye area.

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    • Waterproof eyeliner is designed to withstand sweat and tears.
      By: cedrov
      Waterproof eyeliner is designed to withstand sweat and tears.
    • Waterproof eyeliner is resistant to tears, sweat, and other liquids.
      By: Africa Studio
      Waterproof eyeliner is resistant to tears, sweat, and other liquids.
    • Failing to wear waterproof eyeliner when it rains – or when sweating or crying – can cause the makeup to run and smudge.
      By: fotografiche.eu
      Failing to wear waterproof eyeliner when it rains – or when sweating or crying – can cause the makeup to run and smudge.
    • Permanent eyeliner is the only foolproof way to ensure the makeup is truly waterproof.
      By: BlueSkyImages
      Permanent eyeliner is the only foolproof way to ensure the makeup is truly waterproof.