Eyeliner is a makeup essential that can elevate any look from subtle to dramatic. Whether you’re going for a classic cat-eye or a smoky smudge, the right eyeliner can make all the difference. Vegan eyeliners have gained popularity in recent years. They offer cruelty-free options without compromising on quality or performance.
When choosing a vegan eyeliner, remember to consider factors like formula consistency, staying power, and ease of application. Some people prefer liquid liners for precision, while others opt for pencils or gels for a softer effect. The best vegan eyeliners should glide on smoothly, resist smudging, and last throughout the day.
We’ve scoured the market and tested numerous options to bring you our top picks for vegan eyeliners that deliver both precision and drama. Our selections cater to various preferences and skill levels, ensuring there’s something for everyone in the world of cruelty-free eye makeup.
Best Vegan Eye Liners for Precision and Drama
We’ve rounded up our top picks for vegan eye liners that deliver both precision and drama. These cruelty-free options prove you don’t need animal-derived ingredients to achieve stunning eye looks. From ultra-fine tips to long-lasting formulas, our selection caters to various preferences and application styles. Whether you’re looking for a subtle enhancement or a bold statement, these vegan eye liners for drama provide the perfect solution. Many of our favorites boast intense pigmentation, ensuring that every line is vibrant and eye-catching. Plus, with a range of shades available, you can easily express your creativity while staying true to your ethical values.
Wet n Wild Ultra-Fine Precision Liner
We absolutely adore this vegan eyeliner for its ultra-precise application and long-lasting formula.
- Ultra-fine brush tip for precise lines
- Waterproof and long-wearing
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- May dry out quickly if not stored properly
- Can be tricky to remove
- Limited shade range
We’ve been using this Wet n Wild eyeliner for a while now, and we’re impressed by its performance. The ultra-fine brush tip is a game-changer. It’s so thin, we can create the most delicate lines with ease. Whether we’re going for a subtle daytime look or a bold cat eye, this liner delivers.
The formula is seriously waterproof. We’ve worn it through rainy days and even a few teary moments, and it didn’t budge. It’s perfect for those long days when we need our makeup to stay put from morning till night.
We love that it’s vegan and cruelty-free. It’s nice to know we can achieve beautiful looks without compromising our values. The matte black finish is intense and dramatic, perfect for creating those eye-catching looks we adore.
Eyeko’s Black Magic Liner
We think this vegan eyeliner is a great choice for those seeking precise, long-lasting lines with an eco-friendly twist.
- Easy application with precision tip
- Long-wearing formula
- Smudge-resistant
- Slightly shiny finish
- May dry out quickly
- Pricier than some alternatives
We’ve been using Eyeko’s Black Magic Liner for a while now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The precision felt tip brush allows us to create thin, delicate lines or bold, dramatic looks with ease. It’s a breeze to apply, and we love how it glides smoothly across our lids.
The staying power of this liner is remarkable. We’ve worn it through long workdays and even sweaty workouts, and it barely budges. It’s a relief not having to worry about touch-ups or raccoon eyes halfway through the day.
One thing to note is that the finish isn’t completely matte. There’s a slight sheen to it, which some might prefer, but others might find too shiny. We’ve also noticed that it can dry out faster than we’d like if not stored properly. Despite these minor issues, we think it’s a solid choice for those looking for a vegan, cruelty-free option that delivers on precision and longevity.
Physicians Formula Slim Liquid Liner
We highly recommend this vegan eyeliner for its precision and long-lasting formula.
- Ultra-fine brush tip
- Waterproof and smudge-resistant
- Lash-boosting complex
- May dry out quickly if not stored properly
- Limited color options
- Learning curve for beginners
We’ve been using this Physicians Formula Eye Booster liner for a while now, and it’s become our go-to for creating sharp, precise lines. The ultra-slim brush tip glides on smoothly, allowing us to achieve anything from subtle daytime looks to bold winged eyeliner with ease.
The waterproof formula is a game-changer. We’ve worn it through long workdays and even to the gym, and it hasn’t budged. It’s perfect for those of us with oily lids or who live in humid climates. Plus, we love that it’s enriched with a lash-boosting complex – it feels like we’re pampering our lashes every time we apply it.
One thing to note: the formula dries quickly, which is great for preventing smudges, but it means you need to work fast. We found that storing the liner tip-down helps keep it from drying out between uses. While we wish there were more color options available, the Ultra Black shade is rich and intense, perfect for creating dramatic looks.
e.l.f. No Budge Eyeliner
We think this retractable eyeliner is a solid choice for those seeking a clean beauty option with impressive staying power.
- Creamy, glides on smoothly
- Intense pigmentation
- Versatile application options
- May smudge on some skin types
- Can tug on delicate eye area
- Removal might require extra effort
When we first tried this e.l.f. eyeliner, we were impressed by its smooth application. The creamy texture glides across the lash line effortlessly, creating bold and defined lines. We found it worked well on both our upper and lower lash lines, and even in the waterline for a more dramatic look.
The intense black pigment really caught our eye. It’s dark enough to make a statement, yet we could easily smudge it out for a softer, smokier effect. We appreciated the versatility – it served us well for both everyday wear and more dramatic evening looks.
We put its longevity to the test during a full day of wear. While it held up pretty well, we did notice some smudging by the end of the day, especially in the outer corners. Removal was a bit tricky and required a good makeup remover. Despite these minor drawbacks, we think this vegan and cruelty-free option offers great value for its price point.
e.l.f. H2O Proof Eyeliner
We’re thrilled with this vegan eyeliner that offers precision and long-lasting wear at an affordable price.
- Waterproof formula stays put
- Easy-to-use felt tip
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- May dry out if not stored properly
- Requires steady hand for thin lines
- Limited shade options
We’ve been using this e.l.f. H2O Proof Eyeliner for a while now, and it’s become our go-to for creating dramatic looks. The felt tip glides smoothly across the lash line, depositing rich, jet-black pigment with each stroke. It’s a breeze to achieve both thin, subtle lines and bold cat-eye looks.
The waterproof formula is no joke. We’ve worn it through sweaty workouts and teary movie nights, and it hasn’t budged. It’s reassuring to know our eye makeup will stay put throughout the day. The quick-drying feature is a game-changer, especially for those of us who are always in a rush.
We love that e.l.f. keeps their products vegan and cruelty-free. The vitamin-infused formula feels nourishing on our lash line, which is a nice bonus. While the color range is limited, the intense black shade is versatile enough for most looks. For the price, this eyeliner performs like a high-end product, making it a staple in our makeup bags.
Honest Beauty Vegan Liquid Liner
We believe this clean, long-lasting eyeliner is a great choice for those seeking a natural yet high-performing option.
- Easy, precise application
- Gentle on sensitive eyes
- Smudge-resistant for up to 8 hours
- May not withstand excessive tearing
- Dries to a matte finish
- Can be tricky to remove
We’ve been really impressed with this vegan liquid liner from Honest Beauty. The flexible felt tip brush makes it a breeze to create anything from a thin line to dramatic wings. It glides on smoothly without tugging, which is perfect for those of us with sensitive eyes.
The formula is highly pigmented, delivering a bold black line that stays put for hours. We found it held up well through a typical day, resisting smudging and flaking. It’s not completely bulletproof though – a good cry might cause some bleeding.
What really sets this liner apart is its clean, plant-derived ingredient list. It’s free from parabens, silicones, and carbon black pigment. We love that we can define our eyes without worrying about harsh chemicals. The matte finish looks natural, though some might prefer a shinier look. Removal takes a bit of effort, but that’s the trade-off for its staying power.
Buying Guide
When choosing a vegan eyeliner, we’ve found a few key factors to consider:
Ingredients
Look for natural, plant-based ingredients like:
- Coconut oil
- Jojoba oil
- Vitamin E
- Aloe vera
Avoid animal-derived ingredients such as beeswax, carmine, or lanolin.
Formula
Consider the type of eyeliner that works best for you:
- Liquid
- Gel
- Pencil
- Cream
Each has unique pros and cons for application and wear time.
Color and Pigmentation
We recommend testing shades to find ones that complement your skin tone and eye color. Look for rich, highly-pigmented formulas for bold definition.
Longevity
Check reviews to gauge how well the eyeliner lasts throughout the day. Water-resistant formulas can help prevent smudging.
Applicator
The right applicator makes a big difference in precision:
- Fine-tipped brush for liquid liner
- Sharpened pencil for crisp lines
- Angled brush for gel formulas
Certifications
Look for trusted vegan and cruelty-free certifications like:
- PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies
- Leaping Bunny
- Vegan Action
How do I choose a vegan eyeliner for sensitive eyes?
For sensitive eyes, we suggest opting for hypoallergenic formulas. The 100% Pure Long Last Liquid Eye Liner is made with natural ingredients and is gentle on delicate skin. Meanwhile, Pacifica’s Natural Eye Pencil is another soothing option. It’s enriched with jojoba oil and vitamin E.
What are the best waterproof vegan eyeliners out there?
We’re big fans of Eyeko’s Sport Waterproof Eyeliner for its staying power. It’s perfect for active days or humid weather. Another top pick is the Too Faced Sketch Marker Liquid Art Eyeliner. This eyeliner resists water and sweat like a champ.
Where can I find affordable vegan eye makeup that lasts all day?
Budget-friendly options abound! We love e.l.f. Cosmetics’ H2O Proof Eyeliner Pen for its wallet-friendly price and impressive longevity. Meanwhile, NYX Professional Makeup’s Epic Ink Liner is another affordable gem that delivers all-day wear.
Are there any natural ingredient-based eyeliners that offer bold colors?
Absolutely! We’re obsessed with Zuzu Luxe Liquid Eyeliner. It comes in vibrant shades made from natural minerals. Juice Beauty’s Phyto-Pigments Liquid Line & Define is another colorful option. It’s packed with plant-derived ingredients for bold, eco-friendly looks.