Upturned eyes often benefit from eyeliners that emphasize the outer corners while staying comfortable on sensitive lids. This guide highlights five top options that deliver smudge-proof wear, precise application, and the ability to create subtle to dramatic looks. Each product is evaluated for its ability to complement upturned eye shapes, whether you’re aiming for a clean tightline or a bold wing. Read on for practical insights and a concise buying guide to help you choose the right pencil or gel formula for your style.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner 201 Black | REVLON | Up to 24HR wear, built-in sharpener | Long wear, precise line |
| Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner 202 Black Brown | REVLON | Waterproof and smudge-proof blend | Natural, versatile look |
| NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil, Smokin Topaz | NYX | Retractable with vivid pigment | Bold, smoky looks |
| Almay Gel Eyeliner 130 Pure Plum | Almay | Waterproof and long-wearing with sustainable packaging | Colorful definition |
| e.l.f. Smoky Kohl Eyeliner, French Roast | e.l.f. | Smooth glide with high pigment | Smoky or crisp lines |
Note: The selections focus on formulas that balance precise line work with comfortable wear for upturned eye shapes, prioritizing waterproof or smudge-proof performance and easy application.
Revlon ColorStay Pencil 201 Black
This waterproof pencil provides long-lasting color and a built-in sharpener, facilitating precise lines that suit upturned eyes. The formula is transfer-proof, fade-proof, and smudge-proof for up to 24 hours, making it reliable for all-day wear. It glides smoothly to create anything from a subtle tightline to a dramatic winged look, with a smudger for blending near the outer corners—ideal for accentuating the lift of upturned eyes.
Revlon ColorStay Pencil 202 Black Brown
Similar to the classic black version, this shade offers lasting color with waterproof, smudge-proof performance. It’s well-suited for creating a softer, natural line along the upper lash line or a precise outer wing, which helps lift the appearance of upturned eyes. The built-in sharpener supports crisp edges, while the smudger aids in blending for a seamless gradient at the outer corner.
Revlon ColorStay Pencil 203 Brown
This brown shade expands your options beyond black, offering a natural, defined line that still lasts up to 24 hours. The pencil’s formula remains transfer-proof and water-resistant, making it ideal for daily use or extended events. With a built-in sharpener and smudger, you can tailor the look to emphasize the outer corners without overpowering the eye, which is beneficial for upturned lids seeking subtle lift.
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil, Smokin Topaz
This retractable eyeliner delivers intense pigment without the need for sharpening, simplifying precise application for upper lid definition. Its creamy, long-wearing formula glides on smoothly and resists smudging, making it ideal for creating bold outer corners or a strong upper lash line. The color range supports a variety of eye looks, from natural to dramatic, which can complement upturned eyes nicely.
Almay Gel Eyeliner 130 Pure Plum
This waterproof, fade-proof eyeliner provides bold color with a smooth glide. Though colored, plum tones can brighten the eye area and enhance the outer corner for upturned eyes, creating a lifted appearance without heavy effort. The pencil is easy to sharpen and designed to wear for a full day, making it suitable for long events or daily wear in warmer climates.
e.l.f. Smoky Kohl Eyeliner in French Roast
With a silky-smooth kohl formula, this pencil is ideal for crisp lines or smudged, smoky effects around the upper lash line. It delivers high-pigment color that can define the outer corners of upturned eyes for a lifted look. The affordable option provides dependable wear with a comfortable glide, making it a practical everyday choice for many users.
Buying Guide
When choosing an eyeliner for upturned eyes, consider these factors to ensure results that align with your preferred look and lifestyle.
- Finish and color: For upturned eyes, darker shades like black, deep brown, or plum can accentuate the upward angle, while a lighter shade along the lower lash line can brighten without flattening the eye.
- Longevity: Waterproof or smudge-proof formulas help prevent transfer as you move through the day and avoid smudging at the outer corners.
- Application method: Pencils with built-in sharpeners provide crisp lines; retractable pencils offer convenience but may require a setting step to prevent feathering.
- Texture: Creamy textures glide easily and reduce tugging on delicate eyelid skin; firmer formulas offer more precision for tightlining and wing tips.
- Outer corner emphasis: For upturned eyes, focus on extending slightly past the outer corner to create a lift or wing, rather than a heavy line on the inner lid.
- Allergy and sensitivity: Hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested formulations are beneficial for sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers.
- Packaging and sustainability: Some brands offer recyclable packaging or eco-friendly pencils, which may influence your choice if sustainability matters.
Comparisons:
- Long-wear pencils (Revlon ColorStay 201/202, NYX Vivid Rich) excel in stability and a defined outline suitable for busy days or events.
- Smudge-friendly options (e.l.f. Smoky Kohl, Almay Pure Plum) enable versatile looks, from crisp lines to softer, smoky effects around the outer lash lines.
- Color options ( plum, brown, black) provide flexibility to suit skin tone and eye color while maintaining lift for upturned eyes.