If there’s something I simply can’t leave the house without it’s my trusted black eyeliner. Should I ever be abandoned on a desert island, this would undoubtedly form part of my essential survival kit. It’s my hero staple that I can’t live without and it’s been a personal crusade of mine to find the best of the bunch.

On a daily basis I apply a subtle, yet noticeable sweep of eyeliner gel onto the top of my eyelids and underneath the bottom lash line. I habitually use the MAC Fluidline Blitz & Glitz, which, when using a thin liner brush, creates a smooth, soft line around the eye. It’s great for a softened day look, but also dramatic enough for an evening makeover as the delicate flecks of gold glitter really highlight and draw attention to the eyes.

The only problem for me with this particular pot is the line occasionally rubs off and creates a black smudge in the crease of my eye lid, so on my quest I wanted to find a durable, smudge-proof gel or liquid liner to create a defined look that’s long-lasting throughout the day.

So what’s the best I hear you say? For all eye liner devotees out there, give yourselves a dose of gorgeous glamour with my pick of the best eyeliner gels, pens and liquid liners around…

YSL Shocking False Lash Effect Eye liner, £25
This has to be my favourite liquid liner by far. It has a glossy, metallic finish and a delicate brush for ultimate precision. It’s easy to apply and perfect for creating dramatic, defined flicks, without any worry of smudging. It might be a little over-the-top for the day, but it looks fab for a glam evening look.

Laura Mercier Crème eye liner noir, £19
This may well have to replace my trusted MAC gel pot I’m afraid. It has a gorgeous, glossy finish that really defines the outside of the eyelids, and is not prone to smudging after applying. This is perfect for creating a soft, natural look that lasts. Invest in a fine precision brush like the angled slim eye liner brush from Laura Mercier.

Smashbox Waterproof Limitless Liquid Liner Pen, £17
A hero product from Smashbox, and an absolute dream to use. It’s waterproof, it sets in seconds and is so easy to apply, and has a fine tip for creating gorgeous flicks. A fab buy for hardcore liner lovers, or for newbies wanting to try out a glam new look.

Bobbi Brown Long-wear Gel Eyeliner, £18
Another hero product that’s perfect for daytime definition. The clue is in the title: ‘Long-wear gel’, and it does what it says on the tin. It glides onto the lid with ease, and with a quick-dry formula, remains in one place without causing any smudges or creases. Go for a thick, dramatic line or apply gently for a slightly more subtle look.
 
Benefit Magic Ink, £15.50
This liquid liner has a tiny brush for ultimate definition. It’s a deep black shade in colour, so is perfect for creating a statement line or for adding a dramatic flick. What’s great about this liner is that it really doesn’t budge once you’ve applied.

ÉCRITURE DE CHANEL, £27
Another truly fabulous liner that creates a perfect, defined line around the eye. It has a silky, black texture that glimmers, with a soft, tapered brush that’s really gentle when applying, giving you the choice of creating thin or thick lines. It takes a little practice to get used to as the brush is quite delicate and one wrong move could easily turn into a disaster - but once mastered, you’ll find it a breeze, and your eyes will look effortlessly glam.  

Clinique’s Brush-On Cream Liner, £16.50
You can probably already tell I’m a little obsessed with liner gel pots, and this one is no exception. This sexy, sultry black colour is perfect for creating smokey, shaded lines around the eye, and is so easy to apply. It glides on with ease, creating a soft, whimsical look that’s perfect for daytime. The accompanying brush, I found, was a little too thick for the definition I was after, but would be great to use if using the liner as more of an eye shadow.

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