Black eyeliner is one of those must-have beauty items for anyone who likes defining and bringing focus to their eyes.  It’s a product that pretty much every brand carries but don’t be fooled into thinking they are all made equal.  If you are on the market for a new favorite, here are my top three black eyeliners.

A black eyeliner should be just that- black.  Not grey, not taupe, but truly black.  Ideally it should be safe for, as well as, last on your waterline and bonus points if it’s waterproof.  The following products pass the tests and are items I am always reaching for when working on clients.

24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Perversion by Urban Decay– $19 for 0.04 US oz
This a creamy, blendable, truly black waterproof eyeliner that sets to a long lasting smudge proof matte finish.  I love using this for a dramatic smokey eye as it doesn’t move once you give it a moment to dry down and wears extremely well on the waterline.  For extra drama and staying power you can layer dark shadows on top of it.  My only complaint would be because it is so creamy you may find the need to sharpen frequently to keep a fine point, causing you to use it up quicker than you would like.  This is definitely one of my favorites from the 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil line and I definitely prefer it over their other black eyeliner, Zero.

Eye Kohl in Smolder by MAC-$15 for .048 US oz
Smolder is a lovely, deep, dark black that applies like a dream.  It goes on extremely smooth and sets fairly well though because it is not waterproof it will transfer if you’re not careful.  I prefer using this product on the waterline rather than the lid as it can move around, though if you set it with a black eyeshadow it helps the longevity of wear considerably.  This also blends very easily which lends itself to smokey eye looks and is considered waterline safe as it is stated to have been ophthalmologist tested though it does not give the actual results of the tests.  This was my go-to black eyeliner until Perversion was introduced to my kit though  I still reach for this product on occasion.
24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Perversion by Urban Decay- $19 for 0.058 fl oz
This is the only black liquid eyeliner I will use on my bridal clients, this stuff is truly waterproof.  The color is a rich, opaque black that doesn’t require multiple layers and sets very quickly.  The applicator is a tiny brush but for sanitation purposes I always use a separate brush when using this on clients so I cannot vouch for how well it performs.  This product is available in multiple shades ranging from brown to neon pink, I have yet to venture from Perversion at this time though.  I haven’t found any issue with the product drying up prematurely either, this really is a home run item.

Photo by Mad Chicken Studio
Makeup by Derick Cich