Liquid Liner – The Eyes Have It
04/22/2016
The world of cosmetics is vast and changes faster than a girl can open and close her finely coated peepers. And yet, once in a while, we gather our collective experiences to find that amazing products really do exist and last longer than the blink of an eye. Liquid liner has been my best friend on most days and a nemesis on others, as I’m always on a quest to find the best possible formula and applicator in one. Recently, my friend stumbled on one that she shared with me and I can’t help but want to share it with everyone else. In an effort to be fair, there are also two that are close second and third, in my humble opinion, and they might surprise you.
Seems that tattoo artist Kat Von D has developed her own line of cosmetics, albeit it’s a limited palette with a small selection of actual make up, but it sure does wear well. Her ‘Tattoo Liner’ in Trooper Satin Black is a stand out in so many ways. This liner has a waterproof formula that will stay on until you choose to take it off and when you do, it’s effortless. Any face wash or simple facial soap, takes it right off. The brush itself is soft and flexible enough to allow control while drawing just the right line. Besides having a formula that stays on, and brush that doesn’t fray with time, Kat’s products are never tested on animals and are free of any animal derived ingredients, making them vegan friendly. Tattoo liner can be found at Sephora and retails for $19.
In a sea of liquid liners, Revlon’s Colorstay in Blackest Black is a close second in my book. I’ve used it on and off over the course of the last fifteen years. This liner will not dry out if closed properly every time. It’s long lasting and has a sturdy enough brush, that when it does begin to fray, you can just go buy a new one. It’s price ranges from $5-$7 and can be purchased at drugstores, big box stores or online. It comes in several colors and black has always been the winner with me. It’s deemed ophthalmologist tested and can easily be worn with contact lens. Revlon, a brand that has been a staple for generations, remains steadfast with its formula and tip applicator. Create any look you like for day or night with an inexpensive tool that can be found just about anywhere on the globe!
The third liner in line for the crown is Maybelline’s Line Stiletto, also aptly named Blackest Black. It’s a precision based application and requires a steady hand, but once you master the art of cat eyes, this will be your go to. Sold almost everywhere just like Revlon’s Colorstay liquid liner, it retails in the neighborhood between $5-$8 and glides on swiftly. Washing it off may take a few extra minutes, as I find this one to be the blackest of them all. It’s long tip, sweeps across the lid to create a striking black line that makes any eye larger and more dramatic. On the con side, it tends to dry out after three to four weeks, depending on use, the tip applicator is less sturdy than the other liners. Line Stiletto is also ophthalmologist tested and can be used by those with sensitive eyes and is safe for all contact lens wearers.
Whatever type of liner you find yourself in the market for, these three make a great start. Be your own judge and find just the right amount of drama for your life, through cosmetics.