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When we first witnessed the transformational power of Maybelline New York’s Colossal Kajal, we understood the essential role a good kajal eyeliner plays in achieving the perfect smokey eye.
As beauty professionals, we’ve tested myriad products to find those that stand up to the dual challenge of intensity and endurance. From the waterproof prowess of Plum’s Eye-Swear-By Kajal to the soothing ingredients in Mamaearth’s version, we’ve seen how each eyeliner brings something unique to the table.
As we compile a list of the top nine kajal eyeliners, we consider not just their ability to create a stunning look but also the comfort and care they offer to the delicate eye area.
Stick with us as we unveil which products made the cut, and learn what factors you should keep in mind to ensure your smokey eye is not only captivating but also kind to your skin.
Maybelline New York Colossal Kajal Waterproof Eyeliner (Black, 0.35g)
For those aiming to master the art of the smokey eye, the Maybelline New York Colossal Kajal Waterproof Eyeliner is your go-to for bold, long-lasting definition. Its intense black color provides sharp definition that captures the essence of a dramatic look. You’ll appreciate its smudge-proof and waterproof formula, ensuring your makeup stays impeccable throughout the day or night. Infused with aloe vera, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E, it not only beautifies but also cares for the delicate skin around your eyes.
You can create thin or thick lines with ease, simply by adjusting the pressure and angle of the brush. Trust the customer accolades that celebrate its quality and endurance—some even boast about a 23-hour hold. With the Maybelline New York Colossal Kajal, you’re not just making up your eyes; you’re setting them up to stand out.
Best For: Individuals looking for a bold, long-lasting eyeliner that can create dramatic looks while caring for the skin around the eyes.
Pros:
- Intense black color provides sharp definition for various makeup styles.
- Waterproof and smudge-proof formula ensures longevity and reliability in different conditions.
- Enriched with aloe vera, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E to nurture the eye area.
Cons:
- Limited to one shade, which may not suit everyone’s preference for variety.
Plum Eye-Swear-By Waterproof Black Kajal (Long Lasting with Vit E)
If you’re aiming for a bold, smokey eye that lasts all night, the Plum Eye-Swear-By Waterproof Black Kajal, enriched with Vitamin E, stands out as the go-to choice. Its creamy, smooth formula effortlessly glides onto your lids, delivering an intense matte black pigment that’s perfect for that dramatic look. You’ll love the retractable pencil design for its ease of use, allowing you to create precise lines or blended smokey effects with equal finesse.
This kajal is smudge-proof and waterproof, ensuring your eye makeup stays put for up to 12 hours. It’s ideal if you have sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses, as it’s ophthalmologist and dermatologist-approved. Plus, the inclusion of organic Jojoba Oil and Shea Butter alongside Vitamin E makes it nourishing for your skin. And don’t worry about ethical concerns—it’s 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
Best For: Individuals seeking bold, long-lasting eye makeup that’s suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, and who prefer vegan and cruelty-free cosmetics.
Pros:
- Enriched with Vitamin E, organic Jojoba Oil, and Shea Butter for nourishing the delicate eye area.
- Waterproof and smudge-proof formula that promises up to 12 hours of wear.
- Retractable pencil design for convenient application and precise lines or smokey effects.
Cons:
- Some customer reviews suggest it may not be entirely smudge-proof for everyone.
Mamaearth Long Stay Waterproof Kajal with Vitamin C & Chamomile
Achieving the perfect smokey eye look becomes effortless with Mamaearth Long Stay Waterproof Kajal, enriched with Vitamin C and Chamomile, catering to those seeking long-lasting, smudge-proof makeup. This kajal promises a deep, dark intense black color that glides on with ease and stays put for up to 11 hours. Whether you’re braving a sweaty workout or caught in the rain, it won’t smudge or budge, ensuring a flawless waterproof stroke every time.
Suitable for all skin types and ophthalmologically tested, you can trust it’s safe for your eyes. It’s also vegan and free from harsh chemicals like sulfates and parabens. Although a few users have mentioned the stick can break easily, the overall satisfaction rates high, with many praising its longevity and effectiveness in creating an ‘osm’ smokey eye.
Best For: Individuals seeking a natural, long-lasting, and waterproof kajal for creating striking eye looks that can withstand sweat and rain.
Pros:
- Deep, intense black pigment for sharp eye definition
- Long-lasting wear up to 11 hours, resisting smudges and water
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and free from harmful chemicals like sulfates and parabens
Cons:
- Some users report that the kajal stick is prone to breaking easily
FACES CANADA Magneteyes Kajal, Black (24 Hr Long Stay & Waterproof)
Anyone aiming for a dramatic smokey eye that lasts all day and night will find the 24-hour staying power of FACES CANADA Magneteyes Kajal an ideal choice. This waterproof, smudgeproof, and fadeproof kajal ensures your look stays put without the hassle of constant touch-ups. Its one-stroke smooth glide offers a deep matte finish, perfect for defining those eyes or blending into a sultry smokey effect.
Moreover, the inclusion of Almond Oil and Vitamin E means you’re not just styling your eyes but also nourishing them. While most users rave about its long-lasting capabilities and intense black finish, a few have experienced issues with water resistance and durability. To boost its staying power, try applying eyeliner beneath the kajal line. With FACES CANADA Magneteyes, you’re getting a versatile eye product that doubles as a kajal, eyeliner, and eyeshadow.
Best For: Individuals seeking a versatile eye cosmetic that provides long-lasting, smudge-proof wear with the added benefits of skin-nourishing ingredients.
Pros:
- Offers 24-hour long stay with a waterproof and smudge-proof formula
- Enriched with Almond Oil and Vitamin E for eye nourishment
- Versatile as a kajal, eyeliner, and eyeshadow with an intense black matte finish
Cons:
- Some reports of the product not being fully water-resistant or smudge-proof as claimed
Lakme Eyeconic Insta Cool Kajal, Black (Waterproof & Smudge Proof)
For those aiming for a sultry smokey eye, the Lakme Eyeconic Insta Cool Kajal in Black offers a waterproof and smudge-proof solution that lasts all day. Its glossy finish and the unique cooling sensation, courtesy of cucumber extracts, set it apart from other liners.
The twist-up pencil design means you’re always ready to apply a sharp line without fuss. You’ll appreciate the easy glide of its smooth, creamy texture whether you’re lining your waterline or crafting a wing on your eyelids. It’s ophthalmologically tested, ensuring safety for your eyes.
Plus, customers rave about its dark, long-lasting formula and how it stands up to the promise of water resistance. Despite a few smudging complaints, the consensus is clear: you’re getting a top-notch product that delivers both quality and value.
Best For: Individuals looking for a long-wearing, waterproof kajal that offers a cooling effect and glossy finish for a dramatic eye makeup look.
Pros:
- Infused with cucumber for a unique cooling sensation
- Highly pigmented for a deep black, glossy finish
- Twist-up design ensures the kajal remains sharp for precise application
Cons:
- Some users may experience smudging despite the smudge-proof claim
SUGAR Cosmetics Kohl of Honour Intense Kajal, 01 Black Out (Waterproof & Smudge Proof)
Are you aiming for a dramatic smokey eye that won’t budge all night? SUGAR Cosmetics Kohl of Honour Intense Kajal in 01 Black Out offers a waterproof and smudge-proof formula perfect for long-lasting wear. With its matte finish and lightweight formula, you’ll barely feel it on your skin, yet it delivers that intense, pigment-rich color you crave. The twist-up design means no sharpening woes, making application a breeze.
Despite some users experiencing smudging and quick drying, the majority rave about its staying power and the ease with which it glides on. Manufactured by VLPL and ranking impressively in beauty bestsellers, this kajal could be your go-to for a flawless look that endures the rigors of your day—or night.
Best For: Individuals seeking a long-lasting, intense black kajal for creating bold eye looks that withstand the elements.
Pros:
- Extreme waterproof and smudge-proof properties ensure longevity
- Ergonomic twist-up design facilitates easy and precise application
- High-impact, pigment-rich color provides a dramatic matte finish
Cons:
- Some users report smudging despite the smudge-proof claim
WOW Skin Science Smoky Black Kajal, Water Proof & Smudge Proof
If you’re aiming for that perfect smokey eye, the WOW Skin Science Smoky Black Kajal’s water-proof and smudge-proof formula ensures your look stays pristine throughout the day or night. Infused with 90% natural ingredients, this kajal not only delivers a highly-pigmented, intense black color but also nourishes your eyes with Amla extract and ceramides. You’ll love the smooth glide formula that doesn’t tug at your delicate eye skin.
Customers rave about its easy application and clean finish. It’s velvety, gentle on sensitive eyes, and doesn’t irritate. Plus, it’s free from parabens and mineral oils, making it a safe choice for your beauty routine. Despite one review noting it as not dark enough, most users find it to be a value-packed, long-lasting product that outperforms even international brands.
Best For: Individuals seeking a natural, intensely pigmented, water-proof and smudge-proof kajal for creating a long-lasting smokey eye look.
Pros:
- Infused with nourishing ingredients like Amla extract and ceramides for eye health
- Free from harmful chemicals such as parabens and mineral oils
- Highly praised for its smooth application and longevity
Cons:
- Some users may find it less dark than expected
Himalaya Herbals Kajal, Black, 2.7g (Packaging may Vary)
Anyone seeking to create the perfect smokey eye look will find the Himalaya Herbals Kajal in black, with its intense color and traditional ingredients, to be an indispensable tool in their makeup kit. This pencil-tip kajal, weighing 2.7 grams, is packed with the benefits of Damask Rose and Triphala, which not only add luster but also serve as a tonic for your eyes. The almond and castor oils nourish your lashes and create a protective barrier, while camphor helps to retain moisture, ensuring your eyes remain comfortable. Despite some reviews mentioning smudging, many users rave about its smooth texture, deep black shade, and lasting power. It’s a hit with all skin types, even for those wearing contact lenses. Plus, its affordability makes it a popular choice among kajal enthusiasts.
Best For: Individuals looking for an herbal kajal with nourishing ingredients that provide both beauty and care for the eyes.
Pros:
- Enriched with natural ingredients like Damask Rose and Triphala for eye care benefits.
- Contains Almond and Castor oils to nourish lashes and maintain eye moisture.
- Affordable and praised for its creamy texture and long-lasting intense black color.
Cons:
- Some users have experienced smudging and spreading of the kajal.
RENEE Hard Black Kajal Pen with Sharpener (Long Lasting, Smudge & Waterproof)
For enthusiasts of the classic smokey eye, the RENEE Hard Black Kajal Pen, complete with its own sharpener, offers a smudge-proof and waterproof option that ensures your dramatic look stays intact all day. You’ll love its rich, matte finish and the intense pigment that provides a long-lasting effect with just a single swipe. Its formula, enriched with Candelilla and Carnauba Wax, isn’t only cruelty-free and vegan but also free from toxic ingredients and parabens, making it suitable for sensitive eyes.
Customers are raving about how it delivers on its promise to be long-lasting and smudge-proof. They appreciate the deep black color, though there are some concerns about eye irritation and missing sharpeners. Yet, the overall satisfaction is high, with many intending to repurchase this high-quality product.
Best For: Those seeking a durable, smudge-proof, and waterproof kajal that’s vegan and suitable for sensitive eyes.
Pros:
- Enriched with natural waxes for a soft application
- High-intensity pigment and long-lasting wear
- Comes with a sharpener for precise application
Cons:
- Some users report eye irritation
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Kajal
When we’re on the hunt for the perfect kajal to achieve that sultry smokey eye, we need to keep a few crucial factors in mind.
We’ll examine the pigmentation intensity, water resistance, and ease of application to ensure we’re making the best choice.
It’s also essential to consider the safety of the ingredients and how long the kajal will last to guarantee a look that’s both stunning and enduring.
Pigmentation Intensity
Selecting a kajal with the right pigmentation intensity is crucial for creating a smokey eye look that’s either subtly enchanting or boldly dramatic. The depth and richness of the color influence the look’s overall impact. When we choose a highly pigmented kajal, we’re opting for a product that’ll last longer and won’t require frequent touch-ups. This means we can achieve a striking effect with fewer strokes, saving time and effort.
But it’s not just about lasting power. The pigmentation intensity also increases versatility, allowing us to play with different styles. Whether we’re aiming for precise lines or a smudged, sultry effect, the right intensity can make all the difference. So, we always consider pigmentation when seeking that perfect smokey eye.
Water Resistance
Considering water resistance is essential when choosing a kajal, as it ensures the longevity and resilience of our eye makeup against moisture. We don’t want our carefully crafted smokey eyes to smudge or wash away at the first hint of water or humidity. With a water-resistant formula, we’re ensuring that our kajal stays put, maintaining the intense look we’ve achieved without running or streaking.
Especially for those of us with oily eyelids or who anticipate water contact during the day, water-resistant kajal is a lifesaver. It withstands sweat, tears, and even rain, making it perfect for long wear in any situation. We can confidently go for a swim, hit the gym, or attend outdoor events, knowing our smokey eyes will remain flawless.
Application Ease
After ensuring our kajal can stand up to water, let’s focus on how effortlessly it glides on, an equally crucial factor for achieving that perfect smokey eye. We’re looking for formulas that promise the smoothness and creaminess we need for a hassle-free application. We prefer a twist-up pencil design; it’s not just convenient but also precise, making our makeup routine a breeze.
Moreover, we’re all about that one-swipe application. Who’s got time for tugging and multiple passes? A creamy texture is key—it should allow us to draw precise lines and blend seamlessly.
And let’s not forget, a retractable pencil saves us the fuss of sharpening, keeping our focus on crafting the smokey allure, not on our tools.
Ingredient Safety
When choosing a kajal for that sultry smokey eye, we must scrutinize the ingredients list for natural, skin-friendly components like aloe vera and Vitamin E, steering clear of harmful chemicals such as parabens and sulfates.
We’re on the lookout for kajals packed with nourishing ingredients like chamomile, jojoba oil, shea butter, and almond oil. It’s essential to ensure the kajal is free from mineral oils and artificial preservatives, prioritizing our eye health and safety.
We also prefer products with certifications like Made Safe and approval from dermatologists and ophthalmologists, which vouch for their quality. Traditional ingredients with proven benefits, like triphala and castor oil, are a bonus.
Lasting Duration
In our quest for the perfect smokey eye, we must take into account the lasting duration of kajal eyeliners. Ensuring they offer both resilience against smudging and the ability to withstand long hours of wear is crucial.
We’ve seen products boasting 24-hour longevity, while others promise a solid 11-hour stay. It’s important to opt for smudge-proof and waterproof formulas that live up to these claims. This provides peace of mind from day to night.
We always scour user reviews to verify real-world performance. Authentic feedback reveals which kajals truly last. Considering your planned activities and potential exposure to different environments helps determine if a kajal’s duration meets your expectations.
Smudge-Proof Quality
Prioritizing smudge-proof quality, we consider factors like waterproofing and long-lasting wear to ensure our kajal remains impeccably defined all day. We know how frustrating it can be when your perfect smokey eye starts to wander. That’s why a waterproof formula is a must—it prevents the kajal from running, even when faced with humidity or unexpected tears. Plus, we seek out options that promise extended wear, so we can trust that the intense black color and sharp lines won’t fade or blur as hours pass.
A kajal that resists smudging means we don’t have to worry about constant touch-ups. We’re after a clean, precise application that maintains a sharp look, enhancing the kajal’s impact and our overall smokey eye effect.
Packaging Convenience
How often have we found ourselves struggling with an eyeliner that’s great on the eyes but a hassle in the hand? When choosing the perfect kajal for our smokey eye look, we can’t overlook packaging convenience. We love twist-up pencils for their ease of use—no need for a sharpener, and they’re always ready for application.
We’re on the lookout for kajal that not only glides on smoothly but also comes in durable, secure packaging. This ensures our eyeliner doesn’t break or lose its integrity.
We also appreciate packaging that’s travel-friendly and mess-free, making touch-ups on the go a breeze. And let’s not forget, a built-in sharpener is a bonus that adds to the user-friendliness of our kajal choice.
Skin Compatibility
When selecting a kajal eyeliner, it’s crucial to consider skin type and any ingredient sensitivities to ensure it’s a good match for your skin. We’ve all got unique needs, so if your skin or eyes tend to be on the sensitive side, look for kajal that’s dermatologist or ophthalmologist tested. We want to avoid any unpleasant reactions, right?
We should also steer clear of harmful chemicals, parabens, and mineral oils. Products free from these irritants are the way to go. And, for an extra bit of care, we can opt for kajals enriched with natural ingredients like Vitamin C, Chamomile, Aloe Vera, and Almond Oil. These can be kinder to our skin.
Don’t forget, reading customer reviews can offer us valuable insights into a product’s skin compatibility before we commit to buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Kajal Eyeliners if I Have Sensitive Eyes or Wear Contact Lenses?
We’ve found that you can use kajal eyeliners with sensitive eyes or contacts, but it’s crucial to choose hypoallergenic brands to avoid irritation and ensure comfort throughout the day.
How Can I Prevent My Kajal Eyeliner From Transferring Onto My Eyelid Crease Throughout the Day?
We’ve found setting our kajal with matching eyeshadow helps prevent it from creasing. Also, using primer and choosing long-wear formulas ensures our eyeliner stays put throughout the day.
Are There Any Tricks to Sharpening Kajal Eyeliners Without Wasting Product or Causing Them to Break?
We’ve found that freezing our eyeliners for 10 minutes before sharpening helps prevent breakage and waste. It’s a simple trick that keeps the tips perfectly shaped for precise applications every time.
Can Kajal Eyeliners Be Used on the Waterline for a Long-Lasting Effect, or Are They Only Suitable for the Lash Line?
We’ve found that kajal eyeliners can be applied to the waterline and typically offer a long-lasting effect, making them versatile for both waterline and lash line application.
Is It Safe to Use Kajal Eyeliners During Pregnancy, and Are There Any Specific Ingredients I Should Avoid?
We’re unsure about using kajal eyeliners during pregnancy; it’s best to consult a doctor. We’ll avoid ingredients like lead, which can be harmful to both the mother and the developing baby.
Conclusion
We’ve explored some of the best kajal eyeliners to help you nail that smokey eye look. From Maybelline’s waterproof formula to RENEE’s convenient kajal pen with a sharpener, there’s a perfect pick for everyone.
Remember to consider longevity, ingredients, and ease of application when making your choice.
Whatever your preference, these kajals are sure to add that dramatic flair to your eyes, keeping you looking stunning all day long.
Happy lining!
