Brown eyeliner has long been the unsung hero of the makeup world, a subtle yet powerful tool that offers a softer, more approachable alternative to its ubiquitous black counterpart. While black eyeliner has historically dominated the realm of dramatic definition and bold statements, brown eyeliner provides a nuanced approach, enhancing the eyes with a gentle touch that rarely overpowers. This versatility makes it an indispensable staple, capable of transitioning effortlessly from a barely-there daytime elegance to the smoldering allure of a smoky eye. Its inherent ability to complement a vast spectrum of skin tones and eye colors, coupled with the sheer variety of shades available—from deep espresso and warm chestnut to cool taupe—ensures that there is a perfect brown liner for every individual preference and undertone. Furthermore, the market offers a diverse range of formulas, including user-friendly retractable pencils and precise liquid eyeliners, catering to all levels of makeup expertise.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, brown eyeliner is remarkably forgiving, making it an ideal choice for both makeup novices and seasoned enthusiasts. Whether applied with precision along the lash line for subtle definition or gently blended for a diffused, hazy effect, it consistently delivers an polished finish. As a timeless and quietly impactful staple, the best brown eyeliners are poised to become a permanent fixture in any makeup rotation, offering a sophisticated alternative that enhances natural beauty without demanding the spotlight.
Our Top Brown Eyeliner Picks
This curated selection highlights some of the most exceptional brown eyeliners available, each chosen for its unique qualities and performance.
Best Overall: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Pencil Eyeliner in Tootsie
The Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Pencil Eyeliner has earned its reputation as a perennial favorite, consistently recognized for its exceptional performance and enduring appeal. This gel-infused eyeliner, a recipient of the prestigious Allure Best of Beauty award in 2025, is a testament to its superior formula and long-wearing capabilities. Its creamy, glide-on texture ensures rich, uniform pigment with every application. The shade "Tootsie," a beautifully balanced cool brown, strikes an ideal chord between softness and definition. This versatile brown liner blends seamlessly for a diffused, smoky effect, then sets into a remarkable all-day wear that remains intact for up to 16 hours. The formula’s ability to deliver intense color payoff without tugging or skipping makes it a go-to for both precise lines and diffused looks. Its smudge-proof and waterproof properties further solidify its status as a top-tier choice for daily wear and special occasions alike.
Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann shared her personal endorsement: "A subtle, semi-smoky brown liner with a straight wing has been my thing for years. A good brown liner pencil goes a long way. I use it all over, in my waterline, on my top and lower lids, I even work a bit into my lashes before applying mascara. Tootsie is my current shade of choice. It’s a light, cool brown that wears and blends like a brown shadow to me. It’s very casual, but it adds a lot to my everyday eye makeup."
Best Waterproof: Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof in Espresso
For those who demand unwavering longevity, the Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof eyeliner in "Espresso" emerges as a standout performer. This luxurious option offers a silky, twist-up pencil that glides onto the eyelids without any discomfort or dragging. Once applied, it sets to a budge-proof, waterproof finish that demonstrably withstands humidity, sweat, and the rigors of a long day. The shade "Espresso" is a deep, rich brown that provides elegant definition, proving that exceptional staying power need not compromise on sophistication. Its formulation is designed for seamless application, allowing for precise lining or gentle smudging for a more diffused look before it fully sets.
Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin recounted her experience: "I have pretty oily eyelids and don’t often wear eyeliner because of it—while I’m all for some added definition, the color usually fades away just a few hours after I apply it. Chanel’s Yeux Stylo majorly impressed me, though. Both brown options are dark and intense, perfect for drawing attention to my green eyes. I also love the small tip and firmer formula—it stays pretty sharp as you apply it, keeping your lines thin and even. But I was most surprised by how well it wore throughout the day. This liner stayed exactly where I put it and was pretty tricky to take off (it took both steps of my usual double cleanse, plus a final swipe of a micellar water-soaked cotton pad). It’ll become my go-to for the summer heat or any event where I want to make sure my liner will not budge."
Best Long-Wearing: Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil in The Perfect Brown
Developed by a renowned makeup artist, the Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil in "The Perfect Brown" has garnered significant acclaim for its versatility and impressive staying power. This shade is lauded for its perfectly balanced, neutral brown hue that flatters an extensive range of skin tones and eye colors. Kasey Spickard, a New York City-based makeup artist, elaborates on its universal appeal: "This pencil is truly universal: It sits in this true, rich brown, not warm, not cool, which makes it so flattering across so many skin tones and eye colors. It’s long-wearing, smudges out gorgeously when you lay it down, but doesn’t budge once it’s dried down."
The pencil’s formula delivers intense pigmentation that can be easily blended for a softer effect or worn with precision for sharper definition. Its long-wearing properties ensure that the color remains vibrant and in place throughout the day, resisting smudging and fading. This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable eyeliner for extended wear, whether for a full day of work or a night out. Its ability to perform as both a precise liner and a blendable shadow makes it a valuable addition to any makeup collection.
Best Affordable: e.l.f. Cosmetics No Budge Retractable Eyeliner in Coffee
The e.l.f. Cosmetics No Budge Retractable Eyeliner in "Coffee" stands as a testament to the fact that high performance doesn’t necessitate a high price tag. This budget-friendly option, priced under $10, offers a remarkably creamy formula that glides on smoothly and delivers impressive wear. The shade "Coffee" is a versatile medium brown, ideal for everyday definition and particularly well-suited for those new to eyeliner. Its retractable design eliminates the need for a sharpener, adding to its convenience. The "No Budge" claim holds true, as the liner sets to a smudge-proof finish that lasts throughout the day.
Melanie Curry, associate manager of audience development, shared her insights: "I typically use this liner when I’m wearing a natural or no-makeup-makeup look. The brown color is similar to my skin tone, so it gives my eyelids the perfect definition. I wouldn’t recommend the liner for tightlining (the tip isn’t precise enough) but it’s amazing for creating a natural smoky eye or lining your upper lashes. The formula is super creamy so you can easily blend the liner and get that smudge effect. I haven’t used it for more glam looks, so I can’t speak to how it works there but I can say it’s perfect for a natural eye look. Aside from tightlighting, the only other criticism I have is that the brown is not, well, brown enough. The brown color is the shade of my skin tone, so while it works perfectly for natural, no-effort looks, I do wish there was a deeper brown/espresso hue so I could really get that definition and shadow effect."
Best Bronze: Kulfi Beauty Underlined Kajal Long-Wear Eyeliner in Jamun Glaze
For those seeking a touch of subtle shimmer and warmth, the Kulfi Beauty Underlined Kajal Long-Wear Eyeliner in "Jamun Glaze" offers a captivating bronzy hue. This shade adds dimension and a delicate sheen that catches the light beautifully. Kulfi Beauty’s Underlined Kajal is inspired by traditional kajal, known for its soft, creamy texture and rich pigmentation. This particular shade, a bronze with hints of gold shimmer, provides a wearable, everyday look that enhances eye color without appearing harsh. It is equally adept at defining the waterline and creating a softly smoked-out effect on the lids. Its multi-award-winning status, including multiple Allure Best of Beauty awards, underscores its exceptional quality and popularity.
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han expressed her affection for the brand: "You’ll never catch me without my Kulfi liners within reach—whether it’s at home or in a travel makeup bag. While I always rave about Purply Pataka as my favorite, I love Jamun Glaze’s take on a classic brown almost as much. I never wear black eyeliner because it looks harsh and out-of-place on me, but some browns can also look too intense. Jamun Glaze is a softer bronzy brown that also contains a hint of gold shimmer for an more wearable, everyday look."
Best Glide: Prada Beauty Pradalines Durable Gliding Eyeliner Pencil in Wood
The Prada Beauty Pradalines Durable Gliding Eyeliner Pencil in "Wood" lives up to its name, offering an exceptionally smooth application. This pencil glides onto the skin with virtually no drag, making the process of lining the eyes feel effortless, particularly along the delicate lash line. The "Wood" shade is a refined brown that can be easily built up or blended for a customized look. Its long-lasting, waterproof formula ensures that the makeup remains polished and intact throughout the day, making it a reliable choice for extended wear. The creamy texture allows for a comfortable application, and its ability to smudge gracefully before setting provides flexibility in creating different eye looks.
Contributor Jennifer Hussein commented on its superior texture: "This liner glides on so effortlessly, and it’s incredibly creamy, super pigmented, and doesn’t tug at all. You get rich color in just one pass, and while it stays blendable for a minute, it sets down to a truly budge-proof finish. I love that I can sharpen a wing with a Q-tip or smudge it out for a softer, smoky look."
Best for Smokey Eyes: Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner in Bronze
For those who favor a softly diffused, smoky aesthetic, the Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner is a drugstore gem. This pencil, a longtime Allure Best of Beauty Award winner, boasts a creamy formula that provides ample playtime for blending and smudging before it sets. It features a built-in angled smudger, perfect for achieving that coveted smoky effect. The "Bronze" shade offers a warm, versatile hue that can be deepened or softened as desired. Its waterproof claim is exceptionally strong, with many users reporting it stays in place for up to 24 hours. This longevity is crucial for maintaining the integrity of a smoky eye throughout the day and night.
A tester noted its dual functionality: "The pencil is thin enough to deliver a crisp, clean line but soft enough to smudge until smoky. The shade gives great intensity without overwhelming fair skin." The inclusion of a sharpener within the smudger cap adds to its practicality, making this an exceptionally value-driven product.
Best Brown Shade Range: Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil Long-Lasting Eye & Lip Liner
The Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil stands out for its extensive range of brown shades, offering unparalleled options for personalization. This multi-award-winning pencil, recognized by Allure, is celebrated for its ease of application and blendability. Makeup artist Jewels Grogan highlights its inclusivity: "It’s super easy to apply and blend, and I love that they come in so many shades, so there are options for everyone." The shades span from cool taupes to deep coffee browns, allowing users to find their perfect match. The long-lasting formula is not only suitable for the eyes but also doubles as a lip liner, providing remarkable versatility. Its ability to deliver precise lines or be smudged for a softer look makes it a dynamic tool for various makeup applications.
Beauty closet associate Edward Horgan shared his enthusiastic support: "My friends may or may not make fun of me for the way I hoard these eyeliners, especially the black shade. I will always reach for these over any other pencil liner because I know I will get the smoothest application and a beautiful, long-lasting finish, no matter which way I choose to wear it."
Best Liquid Eyeliner: Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Matte Liquid Liner in Brown
For those who prefer the precision of liquid liner, the Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Matte Liquid Liner in "Brown" offers a sophisticated alternative. Makeup artist Jewels Grogan praises its ultra-fine brush tip, which allows for exceptional control and precision: "The superfine point tip allows you to get really close to the lash line." This feature enables the creation of everything from subtle flicks to dramatic wings with ease. The rich brown pigment provides a softer look than black, enhancing eye color without harshness. The liner dries to a true matte finish and boasts impressive longevity, resisting flaking and fading throughout the day.
Best Warm Brown: MAC Eye Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in Costa Riche
The MAC Eye Kohl Eyeliner Pencil in "Costa Riche" is a beloved shade among makeup artists for its ability to impart warmth and brightness to the eyes. This reddish-brown hue, with its golden undertones, is particularly effective at making green and hazel eyes pop. Makeup artist Kasey Spickard notes its enhancing effect: "It has rich, warm golden undertones that make all eye colors pop. It makes the eyes sparkle and is perfect for creating that warm sun-kissed monochromatic makeup look." The soft kohl formula is exceptionally blendable, allowing for a sultry, diffused finish that adds depth without appearing severe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is brown eyeliner best for?
Brown eyeliner is a universally flattering cosmetic product, its adaptability across a wide range of skin tones and eye colors being its key strength. Makeup artist Jewels Grogan explains that brown eyeliner can suit anyone, offering a softer, more subtle enhancement on deeper complexions and a vibrant accentuation of color on green or blue eyes without being overpowering. This inherent versatility makes it an ideal choice for everyday wear.
Makeup artist Kasey Spickard further emphasizes brown’s utility when a definition is desired that is less stark than that provided by black eyeliner. Its inherent warmth can enhance golden and honey tones in both the eyes and skin, and it can even mimic the natural effect of a shadow, making it perfect for soft, dimensional looks.
Any tips for applying brown eyeliner?
When applying brown eyeliner, makeup artist Delina Medhin advises prioritizing a long-lasting formula with a smudge-proof, no-skip consistency for optimal results. "The most important thing is pigment and that [the eyeliner] easily glides onto the skin," she stated. "You don’t want to use too much pressure on the eye."
For application, a light touch and careful shade selection are paramount. Grogan suggests a straightforward approach: drawing a very thin line along the lash line, which can then be blended for a soft, smoky effect or left clean and precise. For refining the look, she recommends using ultra-thin cotton swabs dipped in micellar water to sharpen edges and correct any mistakes.
Spickard underscores the significance of undertones, asserting that "brown isn’t just brown." Warm shades with red or orange undertones create a bronzed, sun-kissed effect, while cooler browns like taupe or true chocolate mimic natural shadows and offer subtle sculpting. Selecting the correct shade for one’s undertone ensures that the eyeliner complements, rather than competes with, the overall makeup.
Meet the experts
- Jewels Grogan: A makeup artist based in New York City, Grogan is known for her expertise in creating natural yet impactful looks.
- Kasey Spickard: A New York City-based makeup artist, Spickard specializes in enhancing natural beauty with a focus on color theory and flattering application techniques.
- Delina Medhin: A makeup artist recognized for her approach to creating seamless and enduring makeup looks, Medhin emphasizes product performance and application ease.
- Sarah Hoffmann: Allure commerce producer, Hoffmann provides practical insights from a consumer perspective, focusing on the real-world wearability and versatility of beauty products.
- Sarah Felbin: Allure senior commerce editor, Felbin offers her expert opinion on beauty products, drawing from extensive testing and industry knowledge.
- Kassidy Silva: Allure social director, Silva contributes a perspective on how makeup fits into modern beauty routines and social media trends.
- Melanie Curry: Associate manager of audience development at Allure, Curry offers insights into the accessibility and performance of beauty products for a broad audience.
- Jennifer Hussein: A contributor to Allure, Hussein provides detailed reviews based on rigorous product testing.
- Edward Horgan: A beauty closet associate, Horgan offers a hands-on perspective on the practical use and performance of various beauty products.
How we test and review products
When Allure evaluates a product, our editors conduct a comprehensive review, considering every aspect to ensure the best possible recommendations. This includes scrutinizing ingredients, examining brand claims, and, when appropriate, consulting peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. Beyond laboratory testing, we engage industry experts in fields such as dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine to rigorously vet ingredients and formulations.
For our selection of the best brown eyeliners, each product was assessed based on five key criteria: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and wear performance. Our editorial team, comprising in-house writers and editors as well as external contributors, along with specialized dermatologists, deemed each product exemplary in these categories. For more detailed information on our reporting and testing methodologies, please refer to our comprehensive reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
Recognizing that beauty purchases are deeply personal, whether seeking a face cream for persistent dryness, a new nail product for a self-care ritual, or simply exploring the latest hair product launches, Allure is committed to ensuring that every recommendation is one you will love. We believe that assembling a diverse team of writers, editors, testers, and industry experts is fundamental to achieving this goal.
Can we truly label a skincare product as the "best" for individuals over 50 if our testing pool exclusively comprises those under 30? Or can we confidently endorse a high-end diffuser as worthy of your investment if it hasn’t been tested on diverse hair textures? We take pride in our staff’s broad representation across various ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which enables us to impartially evaluate any beauty product that enters our beauty closet.
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