12 Best Drugstore Eyeliners Under $10 For Every Need
Discover affordable drugstore eyeliners under $10 that deliver professional results without breaking your budget.
12 Best Drugstore Eyeliners Under $10
Building a complete makeup collection doesn’t require spending a fortune. Eyeliner is one of those essential cosmetic products that can dramatically transform your eye makeup look, from a subtle everyday definition to bold, dramatic cat eyes. The good news is that you don’t need to splurge on high-end brands to achieve professional-quality results. Drugstore eyeliners have come a long way, offering impressive performance and durability at a fraction of the price of luxury alternatives.
Whether you’re looking for waterproof formulas that withstand tears and humidity, creamy pencils that blend effortlessly, or precise liquid liners for sharp definition, the drugstore aisle has everything you need. This comprehensive guide covers 12 of the best eyeliners available for under $10, each selected for specific purposes and skin types. From people of color to those with sensitive eyes, humidity-prone climates, or dramatic makeup preferences, there’s an option here for everyone.
Best for People of Color: Black Radiance Eye Appeal Retractable Pencil
The Black Radiance Eye Appeal Retractable Pencil is a standout choice for individuals seeking eyeliners specifically formulated to complement deeper skin tones. Available in classic black and rich black-brown shades, this pencil eyeliner offers versatility for various makeup looks and preferences.
Price: $3.19 at Target
What It’s Good For: This eyeliner provides excellent pigmentation that truly shows on deeper complexions, making it an ideal choice for creating defined eyes. The retractable design eliminates the need for sharpening, making application quick and convenient. You can draw thin, sharp lines for precision work or smudge and blend it for a softer look.
Best for Long-Lasting: CoverGirl Perfect Blend Eye Pencil
CoverGirl’s Perfect Blend Eye Pencil is a classic drugstore staple that delivers impressive staying power throughout the day. This tried-and-true formula has earned its reputation through consistent performance and affordability.
Price: $3.19 at Target
What It’s Good For: This pencil eyeliner is designed to last through your entire day without fading or smudging. The creamy texture allows for easy application and blending, whether you prefer a precise thin line or a softer, smudged effect. It’s an excellent all-around choice for anyone seeking dependable, long-wearing color.
Best for Quick Application: Maybelline New York Unstoppable Eyeliner
When you’re rushing out the door and need a reliable eyeliner that applies smoothly and quickly, the Maybelline New York Unstoppable Eyeliner delivers results. This formula is engineered for speed without sacrificing quality or longevity.
Price: Varies by retailer
What It’s Good For: The straightforward application process makes this eyeliner perfect for those with busy mornings or anyone who prefers minimal fuss. It glides on effortlessly and sets quickly, allowing you to complete your eye makeup in seconds without worrying about smudging or uneven lines.
Best for Dramatics: Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner
For those who love bold, intense eye looks that command attention, the Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner is an exceptional choice. This gel formula represents a hybrid approach between liquid and pencil eyeliners, offering the best of both worlds.
Price: $7.49 at Bed, Bath and Beyond
What It’s Good For: The smudgeproof, waterproof formula ensures your dramatic look stays put for up to 24 hours. This eyeliner is dermatologist-tested, allergy-tested, and oil-free, making it safe for sensitive eyes. Available in 10 different shades, you can find the perfect color to match your desired intensity level. The gel consistency allows for both sharp definition and smudged intensity, depending on your application technique.
Best for Sensitive Eyes: Almay Eyeliner
Sensitive eyes require special attention when it comes to makeup products. The Almay Eyeliner is specifically formulated to be gentle while still delivering the color payoff and performance you expect from a quality eyeliner.
Price: $8.49 at Almay
What It’s Good For: This fragrance-free, hypoallergenic eyeliner is exceptional for anyone with sensitive eyes or reactive skin. The creamy, waterproof gel formula dries quickly and can be blended if you work fast. Available in six dramatic colors including navy, chestnut, and plum, you have options beyond basic black. Note that this formula is very drying on the waterline, so it’s best applied to the upper lash line only.
Cruelty-Free: Yes
Made Of: Recycled paper fibers and biobased cellulose
How to Sharpen: Use a makeup pencil sharpener
Best for Precision Lining: Wet n Wild Kohl Crayon Eyeliner
The Wet n Wild Kohl Crayon Eyeliner is among the most affordable options available, making it perfect for experimenting with different looks or building a collection of multiple shades without guilt.
Price: $1.89 at CVS (only available in stores)
What It’s Good For: At this price point, you could purchase one crayon in each of the six available neutral colors. The formula is creamy enough to glide smoothly across the lash line but not so creamy that it becomes messy. This eyeliner holds up exceptionally well when applied to the waterline and maintains its definition for up to 12 hours, making it perfect for precision lining techniques.
Best for Different Effects: Eyeliner with Multiple Tips
For makeup artists and enthusiasts who love versatility, an eyeliner offering multiple interchangeable tips provides unprecedented flexibility in creating various looks.
Price: $8.99 at Target
What It’s Good For: This innovative liquid eye pen comes with three different tips: ballpoint for creating dot-to-dot lines, a slim tapered tip for precise gliding along the lash line, and an angled tip for perfect cat eyes. All three tips are available in black, allowing you to create virtually any eye look imaginable. The versatility makes this a smart investment for anyone who enjoys experimenting with different eyeliner styles and effects.
Best for Criers: Rimmel Exaggerate Eye Definer Noir
If you find yourself tearing up easily—whether from emotions, allergies, or sensitive eyes—you need an eyeliner that won’t betray you with raccoon eyes. The Rimmel Exaggerate Eye Definer Noir is formulated to stay put even when tears flow freely.
Price: $3.47 at Amazon
What It’s Good For: This waterproof eyeliner glides on smoothly and stays put all day without budging, even with moisture. It comes in five colors, including the standout shade “copper bling.” Even if you have dry skin, this eyeliner applies easily and stays soft long enough to blend before setting in place for the entire day.
Best for Splurge: L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Smoldering Eyeliner
The name alone suggests luxury and sophistication. While this eyeliner sits at the higher end of the under-$10 budget, it occasionally goes on sale and delivers results that justify the slight splurge.
Price: $10.99 at Walgreens (frequently on sale and under $10)
What It’s Good For: This fine-tipped eyeliner is perfect for detailed eye definition work. Use it sharp from the sharpener and drag it along your upper lash line to create a kitten eye effect, or use the wider part of the pencil to create thicker lines for wing-shaped eyes. It delivers the defined, sultry eye that the name promises.
Best for Humidity: Milani Eye Tech Extreme Liquid Eyeliner
Living in a humid climate or frequently dealing with sweat and moisture requires an eyeliner that won’t budge. The Milani Eye Tech Extreme Liquid Eyeliner is engineered specifically for these challenging conditions.
Price: $7.99 at Milani Cosmetics
What It’s Good For: This sweatproof, easy-to-apply liquid eyeliner is an excellent go-to option for creating multiple looks. Available in two shades of black, it works for both sharp, precise lines and winged liner applications. The formula resists humidity and sweat, making it ideal for anyone in warm, humid climates or those who exercise regularly.
Why Choose Drugstore Eyeliners?
Many beauty enthusiasts assume that expensive luxury eyeliners automatically outperform drugstore options. However, modern drugstore cosmetics have significantly improved in quality, pigmentation, and longevity. The primary advantage of choosing drugstore eyeliners under $10 is the savings: you can experiment with multiple formulas, colors, and application techniques without worrying about budget constraints.
Additionally, drugstore brands invest heavily in research and development, creating formulas that rival luxury brands. Whether you’re looking for waterproof performance, sensitive-skin-friendly ingredients, or dramatic color payoff, drugstore options deliver impressive results.
Eyeliner Styles and Types Explained
Understanding the different eyeliner formats helps you choose the right option for your needs and preferences:
- Pencil Eyeliners: Versatile and easy to control, pencil liners can create both sharp lines and soft, smudged effects. They require sharpening but offer excellent precision.
- Liquid Eyeliners: These provide intense pigmentation and sharp definition. They’re ideal for creating winged eyeliner looks and bold statements.
- Gel Eyeliners: Hybrid formulas that combine the best of pencil and liquid eyeliners, offering creamy application with impressive staying power.
- Kohl Crayons: Ultra-creamy formulas perfect for lining the waterline and creating dramatic looks with minimal effort.
Tips for Applying Eyeliner Effectively
Even the best eyeliner won’t perform well without proper application technique. Consider these tips for optimal results:
- Start with a clean, moisturized eyelid. Apply primer to help your eyeliner last longer and prevent creasing.
- Use short strokes rather than one long line for more control and precision.
- If you make a mistake, keep a cotton swab with makeup remover nearby for quick corrections.
- For waterline application, choose specifically formulated waterproof options designed for this delicate area.
- Set liquid or gel eyeliners with a matching shadow to increase longevity.
- Always sharpen pencil eyeliners properly using a quality makeup sharpener to maintain precision.
Building Your Eyeliner Collection
With so many excellent options under $10, you can build a diverse eyeliner collection that covers every mood and occasion. Start with one or two staple formulas that work for your daily routine, then gradually add specialized options like waterproof formulas for crying-prone days or dramatic gels for evening looks. The affordability of drugstore eyeliners makes experimentation accessible to everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are drugstore eyeliners as good as high-end brands?
A: Yes, modern drugstore eyeliners offer comparable quality, pigmentation, and longevity to luxury brands. Many beauty experts confirm that the performance gap has significantly narrowed, making drugstore options excellent value for money.
Q: How long do drugstore eyeliners typically last?
A: Most quality drugstore eyeliners last 8-24 hours depending on the formula and your skin type. Waterproof versions tend to last longer, especially in humid conditions or for those prone to tearing.
Q: Can I use pencil eyeliners on my waterline?
A: Yes, but it’s best to use eyeliners specifically formulated for waterline application. Some formulas, like the Almay option, are too drying for the waterline. The Wet n Wild Kohl Crayon is excellent for waterline use.
Q: How often should I sharpen my eyeliner pencil?
A: Sharp pencils provide better control and precision. Sharpen your eyeliner as needed before application using a quality makeup sharpener designed specifically for cosmetics.
Q: What’s the difference between gel and liquid eyeliners?
A: Gel eyeliners have a creamier consistency and come in pots, applied with a brush. Liquid eyeliners are thinner and come with applicator tips or brushes. Both offer excellent staying power, but gels allow easier blending while liquids provide sharper definition.
Q: Are there eyeliners suitable for sensitive eyes?
A: Yes, the Almay Eyeliner is specifically formulated for sensitive eyes with hypoallergenic, fragrance-free ingredients. The Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama is also dermatologist-tested and allergy-tested for sensitive skin.
Q: How can I make my eyeliner last longer throughout the day?
A: Use an eyeshadow primer on your lids before applying eyeliner. Keep your eyelids clean and dry. For gel or liquid liners, set them with a matching eyeshadow. Choose waterproof formulas if you have oily skin or live in humid climates.
References
- The 12 Best Drugstore Pencil Eyeliners Under $10 — The Penny Hoarder. 2024. https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/save-money/best-drugstore-eyeliners-under-10/
- The 8 Best Drugstore Eyeliners, According to Beauty Gurus — The Penny Hoarder. 2024. https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/save-money/best-drugstore-eyeliner/
- Makeup Breakup: How I Saved More Than $40 on My Everyday Face — The Penny Hoarder. 2024. https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/save-money/drugstore-makeup/
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