Who should wear brown eyeliner?

Brown eyeliner looks great with any eye color, and there are many different ways to wear it, so it never gets old. It’s great for people with blue eyes because of the color contrast, and it can have a beautifully natural look on people with brown eyes . Brown eyeliner can add richness and dimension to brown eyes, and a light brown eyeliner can bring out any golden flecks in green eyes , making them appear more multi-colored.

Does brown eyeliner make your eyes look bigger?

It can, especially if your eyes are naturally brown, because the eyeliner will enhance their color and shape. Byrdie writer Yashna Balwanth notes that brown eyeshadow frames brown eyes very well, saying that “You can go as subtle or bold as you like, and the smoky chocolate tones here really help to show off your brown eyes.” Brown eyeliner can also make your eyes appear brighter, which can also make them appear larger.

Is liquid brown eyeliner better than pencil?

It depends on what kind of look you’re going for. For a softer look, a pencil brown eyeliner is ideal. But if you want a bold and dramatic look, your best bet is to use a liquid eyeliner. That’s because liquids, especially felt-tip eyeliners, are the best at creating big, bold shapes and sharply defined eyes. For a cat eye, use a liquid product, and for a soft daytime look, choose a pencil.

The 15 Best Brown Eyeliners of 2023

The 15 Best Brown Eyeliners of 2022 — Byrdie / Sabrina Jiang

Although black liner will always remain a staple, many are now opting for brown eyeliner to help achieve a more fresh-faced look. There is a nearly endless number of brown shades to choose from—everything from light to dark or neutral to bold—and it’s way more approachable than black eyeliner. “Brown eyeliner is universal and less intense than black," says Mario Dedivanovic, Founder and CEO of Makeup By Mario and Celebrity Makeup Artist.

Regardless of how you use brown eyeliner—pencil, gel, or liquid—it’ll work across the board to give you added definition without being overbearing (or too intimidating for new eyeliner users). Another benefit of a brown liner is that it's versatile. So, swapping between more dramatic looks or subtle everyday looks requires little to no effort. And, if you don’t have the steadiest hand, the application is pretty user-friendly too.

"To apply," explains Dedivanovic, "line the eye to the outer corner and get as close to the lashes as possible—but don’t stress if it isn’t perfectly symmetrical. For a smudged look, use a brush to gently blend and soften the line," he says. “To create further definition, apply one or more layers along the lash line.”

Read on for the best brown eyeliners.

In This Article

Our Picks
Final Verdict
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Us

4.9

Dior Eyeliner Waterproof in Intense Brown

Neiman Marcus

View On Nordstrom View On Neiman Marcus

What We Like

Long-lasting
Waterproof
Helpful foam tip for blending

What We Don't Like

Pricey

What do buyers say? 90+ Nordstrom reviewers rated this product 4.5 stars or above.

Not only does this eyeliner work incredibly for all-day wear, but its formula won’t budge under any circumstances—including water, sweat, or humidity. Available in one universally flattering hue, the foam tip helps blend or soften any look seamlessly. Warning: It gives the perfect smoky look in a snap, so be prepared for compliments.

Price at time of publish: $30

Type: Pencil | Shades: 3 | Size: 0.04 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

4.5

Target

View on Ulta View On Amazon View On Target

What We Like

Affordable
Long-lasting
Precise tip

What We Don't Like

Can smudge

Reviewed: NYX's Epic Ink Liner Creates Precise Wings in No Time

Looking to create a super-sharp wing? If yes, then this NYX eyeliner is for you. Ultra-pigmented and waterproof, drawing perfect lines has never been easier (or less expensive). Regardless of how you like your eyeliner—thick, thin, or very fine—the easy-to-use slender brush tip is super flexible, so you have complete control over the look you create.

Price at time of publish: $10

What Our Testers Say

"I was amazed at how easy it was to apply NYX's Epic Ink Liner without much error. Thanks to its flexible precision tip, it glided over my trembling lash line with ease, and not even my unsteady hand could make it veer too far from the curve of my lid." — Donecia Pea, Product Tester

Maybelline Unstoppable Eyeliner, Cinnabar

View On Amazon View On Target

What We Like

Affordable
Waterproof
Doubles as an eyebrow pencil

What We Don't Like

Can smudge

Let’s be honest: Maybelline’s affordable makeup rivals some of the most expensive on the market. Therefore, it’s no surprise that this eyeliner is a true hidden gem. Its smudge-resistant, waterproof formula stays on through literally everything. Bonus: You can also use it as an eyebrow pencil.

Price at time of publish: $8

Type: Pencil | Shades: 5 | Size: 0.01 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Proâ¢ Eyeliner Pencil

Sephora

View On Sephora View On Kohls.com

What We Like

Great color payoff
Long-lasting
Helpful brush for blending

What We Don't Like

Pricey

If you’re a fan of Kim Kardashian’s eyeliner looks, then this eyeliner is for you. Created by celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic (aka Kim’s makeup artist), it’s no surprise that this eyeliner is truly extraordinary. Its highly-pigmented, long-lasting, and velvety gel-based formula is the reason we love it. And it comes with an attached brush for seamless blending.

Price at time of publish: $22

“When blended on the lid with a brush, the brown liner can replace shadow to create a beautiful, quick, and easy smoky eye,” explains Dedivanovic.

Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner Gel Eyeliner in Ro(Cocoa)

View On Amazon View On Sephora

What We Like

Self-sharpening
Waterproof
Comes in various finishes

What We Don't Like

Can smudge

Gel eyeliner is a great alternative for those who have trouble applying liquid eyeliners, yet want a cleanly drawn, precise line. With a self-sharpening tip, epic color payoff, and 12-hour waterproof wear, this gel eyeliner lives up to the hype. Plus, you get your choice of matte or shimmer finish.

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Liner Matte Liquid Eyeliner in Brown

View on Ulta View On Nordstrom View On Sephora

What We Like

Dries quickly
Precise tip
Waterproof

What We Don't Like

Pen dries out fast

When you’re going to put in the effort of applying eyeliner, you might as well use the best liquid liner—this is the one. Use it once, and you’ll automatically fall in love with its easy-glide precision tip and quick-dry waterproof formula. But, the reason we love it most is that it has zero flaking, fading, bleeding, or smudging, regardless of how long you spend wearing it.

Price at time of publish: $22 for 0.03 ounces

Type: Liquid | Shades: 2 | Size: 0.03 ounces, 0.01 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

View On Ulta

What We Like

Ophthalmologist-tested
Affordable
Great color payoff

What We Don't Like

Can skip during application

Formulated without bad for you ingredients—like paraben preservatives, phthalates, SLS, and more— this ophthalmologist-tested formula is a great natural-based alternative to your regular eyeliner. The gel-like feel, simple application, and satin finish are just some of the reasons why this affordable formula is loved by many. Bonus: It’s also safe for sensitive eyes and contact wearers.

Price at time of publish: $10

Chanel Le Crayon Yeux Precision Eye Definer

View On Nordstrom

What We Like

Great color payoff
Helpful smudging and sharpening tool
Ophthalmologist-tested

What We Don't Like

Pricey

Made with three versatile shades of brown—Brun-Teak, Coffee Bean, and Brun Cuivré—there is sure to be a suitable shade for every skin tone and eye color. Formulated with finely dispersed pigments, the extremely smooth texture is a breeze to apply. By creating a clear, precise line around the eye, this eyeliner truly makes your eyes pop. Another perk: Smudging and sharpening are super easy too, due to the attached sponge applicator and included double-bladed sharpener.

Type: Pencil | Shades: 8 | Size: 0.03 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

4.1

Pat McGrath

View On Amazon View On Sephora View On Patmcgrath.com

What We Like

Long-lasting
Waterproof
Great color payoff

What We Don't Like

Pricey

When considering an eyeliner for your waterline, you need to make sure it has precision without being too pointy and long-wearing waterproof formula to avoid smudging. This Pat McGrath eyeliner checks off all of those boxes and more. All you need is a quick-swipe and vóila—an instantly defined eye.

Price at time of publish: $29

Type: Gel pencil | Shades: 6 | Size: 0.042 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

Juvia's Place Nubian Eyeliner Pencil in Cocoa

Courtesy of Ulta

View On Ulta

What We Like

Long-lasting
Glides on smooth
Great for smoky eyes

What We Don't Like

Reviewers note it can break easily

Not only is the deep chocolate brown shade of this pencil gorgeous and flattering on a multitude of skin tones, but the creamy, long-wear formula glides on with ease. We love how, before it sets, it can easily be smudged to create the perfect smoky eye.

Price at time of publish: $12

Type: Pencil | Shades: 4 | Free of: Parabens, sulfates | Size: 0.007 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

View On Amazon View On Pacificabeauty.com

What We Like

Great for sensitive eyes
Long-lasting
Waterproof

What We Don't Like

May not work well for oily eyelids

Made with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients—like jojoba oil, shea butter, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E— this formula is safe for use on most sensitive eyes. Waterproof and long-lasting, there’s no need to worry about smudging during all-day wear. Another perk: its buttery formula is a piece of cake to use, so it’s perfect for new eyeliner users.

Price at time of publish: $20

Clé de Peau Intensifying Liquid Eyeliner in Brown

View On Walmart

What We Like

Dries quickly
Long-lasting
Precise tip

What We Don't Like

Pricey

There is a reason this eyeliner is constantly selling out—it’s unparalleled. Built with two unique twin applicators, creating the perfect, elegant line or bold, sharp wings is truly effortless. The best part? It dries quickly and leaves a long-lasting luminous finish.

Price at time of publish: $38

Type: Liquid | Shades: 2 | Size: 0.02 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No

View On Sephora View On Fentybeauty.com

What We Like

Water-resistant
Doesn't smudge
Great color payoff

What We Don't Like

Can skip during application

Rihanna has done it again with this true masterpiece of an eyeliner. Creamy and water-resistant, you’ll find yourself reaching for this eyeliner every single day. And, the convenient twist-up top glides across the lids seamlessly for smudge-resistant lines every time.

Price at time of publish: $23

Type: Pencil | Shades: 20 | Size: 0.01 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Nordstrom View On Sephora

What We Like

Long-lasting
Waterproof
Great color payoff

What We Don't Like

Pen dries out fast

I Tested Stila's Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner and It Didn’t Smudge Once

The last thing you want is to spend time on your eyeliner, only for it to disappear due to humidity or water. Enter: Stila’s eyeliner. Living up to its name, it truly stays on all day and goes on smoothly without skipping, smudging, or pulling. Plus, its thin marker-like tip makes drawing even the thinnest of lines simple.

Price at time of publish: $23

Type: Liquid | Shades: 8 | Size: 0.016 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: No

What Our Testers Say

“With a high pigment deposit in just one application along with no smudging or smearing, this eyeliner will last through anything.” — Ashley Rebecca, Product Tester

Courtesy of Sephora

View On Sephora View On Ulta View On Target

What We Like

Has both liquid and gel formulas
Waterproof
Great color payoff

What We Don't Like

Gel pencil side can be drying

You don’t have to decide between a gel or liquid eyeliner with this dual-ended eyeliner from Tarte. Its waterproof formula, saturated color, and semi-matte, opaque finish are just some of the reasons why this is one of their best-selling eyeliners. Don’t be intimidated; both formulas glide on seamlessly without ever streaking or smearing.

Price at time of publish: $25

Final Verdict

Known for their universally flattering hues and lower intensity, brown eyeliners are incredibly versatile for creating different looks and come in a wide range of formulas and shades (unlike black eyeliners). Though it’s a little bit of a splurge, the best brown eyeliner is Dior’s Eyeliner Waterproof in Intense Brown with Clè de Peau’s Intensifying Liquid Eyeliner in Brown coming in at a close second. If you want to spend less, try Maybelline's Unstoppable Eyeliner in Cinnabar or NYX Professional Makeup Epic Liner in Brown which are both great alternatives to their higher-end counterparts.

FYI, eyeliner can help balance the distance between your eyes. "If your eyes are close together, start applying liner at the center of the eye and draw to the outer corner," says Dedivanovic. "If you’re looking to create the illusion that your eyes are closer together, line the eyes from the inner corner to the outer corner as this helps to minimize the eye separation."

What to Look For in a Brown Eyeliner

Color

When looking for a brown eyeliner, the undertones of it make a huge difference. I look for eyeliners that don’t have too much red in them since that can make the eyes look tired, explains Dedivanovic.

Blendability

The ability to seamlessly blend your eyeliner can go a long way in creating different looks. "Something I look for in every eyeliner is blendability," Dedivanovic explains. "I like to both blend and smudge—smudging is great for dramatic smoky eyes, whereas blending out your eyeliner can help give a more natural look."

FAQ

Who should wear brown eyeliner?

Brown eyeliner looks great with any eye color, and there are many different ways to wear it, so it never gets old. It’s great for people with blue eyes because of the color contrast, and it can have a beautifully natural look on people with brown eyes. Brown eyeliner can add richness and dimension to brown eyes, and a light brown eyeliner can bring out any golden flecks in green eyes, making them appear more multi-colored.
Does brown eyeliner make your eyes look bigger?

It can, especially if your eyes are naturally brown, because the eyeliner will enhance their color and shape. Byrdie writer Yashna Balwanth notes that brown eyeshadow frames brown eyes very well, saying that “You can go as subtle or bold as you like, and the smoky chocolate tones here really help to show off your brown eyes.” Brown eyeliner can also make your eyes appear brighter, which can also make them appear larger.
Is liquid brown eyeliner better than pencil?

It depends on what kind of look you’re going for. For a softer look, a pencil brown eyeliner is ideal. But if you want a bold and dramatic look, your best bet is to use a liquid eyeliner. That’s because liquids, especially felt-tip eyeliners, are the best at creating big, bold shapes and sharply defined eyes. For a cat eye, use a liquid product, and for a soft daytime look, choose a pencil.

Why Trust Us?

Byrdie contributor Rachel Dube has written for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. Along with writing about beauty, she has also tested hundreds of beauty products. Although she loves a good black eyeliner, recently she has been trying her hand at brown eyeliners for a more natural everyday look.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough brown eyeliner from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

12 Black Eyeliners to Add to Your Makeup Bag, ASAP

Best Overall

Dior Eyeliner Waterproof in Intense Brown

Best Budget

NYX Epic Ink Liner

Best Drugstore

Maybelline Unstoppable Eyeliner in Cinnabar

Best Pencil

Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Eyeliner Pencil

Best Gel

Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner Gel Eye Crayon Eyeliner in Brown

Best Liquid

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Liner Matte Liquid Eyeliner in Brown

Best Natural

Burt’s Bees Defining Eyeliner in Hammered Bronze

Best Shade Range

Chanel Le Crayon Yeux Precision Eye Definer

Best for Waterline

Pat McGrath Labs Permagel Ultra Eye Pencil

Best for Smoky Eyes

Juvia's Place Nubian Eyeliner Pencil in Cocoa

Best for Sensitive Eyes

Pacifica Natural Eye Pencil in Fringe

Best Splurge

Clé de Peau Intensifying Liquid Eyeliner in Brown

Best Long-Wearing

Fenty FlyPencil in Brown

Best Waterproof

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

Best Multi-Use

Tarte Double Take Eyeliner

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