A smart approach to materialism dictates that there are some things worth splurging on and others that may not be worth the extra few dollars. Anti-aging moisturizers packed to the gills with retinoids and peptides and SPF 30 and Elizabeth Báthory’s secret blend? Worth it. Liquid eyeliner, mascara, and other bacteria-laden items it’s wise to replace every few months? Not so much. The best drugstore liquid eyeliner is a better bet.
More: A Guide to Designer Beauty Brands—and Which Products Are Really Worth the Splurge
If you’re the kind of person who’s made a signature look out of a cat eye or just prefers to face the day with a liiiittle bit of definition around the eyes—makes you look more alive!—then chances are a good liquid eyeliner is your mainstay. And if you are the daily type, then you’ve more than likely noticed just how quickly you seem to go through the liquid stuff. Either you run out or it runs out of steam; it’s the circle of life.
Spare yourself the drama, except for where the eye makeup is concerned, and “invest” in one of these 5 hand-to-God tried-and-true liquid eyeliners, all of which can be purchased for under $15 anywhere drugstore eyeliners are found. That’s practically an invitation to buy them in bulk.
More: The Secret to Getting a Perfect Cat Eye Every Single Time
1. Almay Liquid Eyeliner
This water-resistant formula, with its potted "inkwell" packaging and precise tapered tip, is a classic crowd-pleaser that's just as good now as it was when it was the first eyeliner you'd ever used. Perfect for eye-lining needs both big and small, the flexible tip makes easy work of creating a thick cat eye or the thinnest eye-hugging tightline known to man. Virtually mistake-proof, hypoallergenic, and steadfast for up to 16 hours. (Walgreens $5)
2. L'Oreal Paris Lineur Intense Brush Tip Liquid Eyeliner
There's no use in labeling something "intense" when it just objectively isn't—so with that said, I'm fond of this liner on principle just because it hasn't lied. Beyond that, it delivers the kind of opaque, intensely black lines that anyone in their right mind knows is exactly what you want out of a liquid liner. It's totally smudge-proof and water-resistant—go on, try it—and suitable for sensitive eyes/people. (Walgreens, $8)
3. Maybelline Line Stiletto Ultimate Precision Liquid Eyeliner
Now here is the gold standard, the one inky, easy to apply, legitimately long-wearing formula that has elevated itself from drugstore-thrill status to nominee for G.O.A.T. The flexible felt tip makes for a smooth application process with no tugging, perfect for the smooth stroke necessary for creating a precise line. It's impossible to screw up, and also impossible to get off without an oily makeup remover. Both good things. (Drugstore.com, $6)
4. NYX The Curve
If any eyeliner could ever be considered coddling, this one would be it. The ergonomic shape provides a "grip zone" that fits perfectly into the hand for a steady hold that ensures crisp, precise lines and the easiest application process ever. Once on, it doesn't smear, doesn't flake, doesn't fade—in short, it just doesn't play around. Respectable.
(Target$15)
5. Wet n Wild MegaLiner Liquid Eyeliner
$3 could buy you one overpriced latte with a cat's face made out of foam or this superlative, wildly affordable liquid liner, which goes on perfectly black, dries fast, lasts forever, doesn't smudge, and generally satisfies all around. Fire up your Mr. Coffee instead. (Walgreens $3)
Originally posted on StyleCaster.com