Top 10 Eyeliners for Mature Skin: Expert Picks from E.l.f. to Chanel
They say the eyes are the window to the soul, which is why achieving a bright, defined look is so important. For those with more mature skin, however, finding an eyeliner that doesn't smudge, tug, or dry out can be a challenge. Fortunately, numerous brands offer formulas specifically praised by reviewers in their 50s, 60s, and beyond. From affordable drugstore options to high-end luxury items, we've compiled a comprehensive list of eyeliners that deliver exceptional performance for mature skin.
1. E.l.f. No-Budge Retractable Eyeliner
Best Drugstore Black Eyeliner
Available at Walmart and Ulta, this creamy, pigmented retractable eyeliner is waterproof and designed to last all day. Its streamlined packaging ensures precise application, making it a favorite among mature users. One reviewer noted, "All of ELF's products are great, but this eyeliner is the best I've ever used, and I'm 50 so I have used a lot of eyeliners." Another added, "Love it. I am an older woman, most pencil liners pull my skin and don't produce a good continuous line. This pencil glides on and STAYS out all day long!!!!"
2. Chanel Waterproof Long-Lasting Eyeliner
Best Luxury Brown Eyeliner
Sold at Nordstrom and Ulta, this waterproof, smudge-proof liner offers a softer alternative to black while remaining eye-catching. Its easy-twist mechanism and retractable tip provide effortless application without straining delicate skin. A satisfied customer shared, "As a mature woman, black is not for me. The espresso is easily applied and stays in place. It is dark enough without being stark." Another reviewer, over 70, praised its longevity and lack of smudging.
3. NYX Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil
Best Drugstore Brown Eyeliner
Found on Amazon, this retractable pen combines the glide of a liquid formula with the precision of a stick. It's heat and humidity-proof, ensuring definition for hours. One user remarked, "The color is soft and rich. It glides on smoothly. I'm 70 years old but it's easy to control the fine tip." Another longtime eyeliner wearer called it the best they've ever used, highlighting its gentle application on aging skin.
4. MAC Colour Excess Gel Pencil
Best Luxury Black Eyeliner
Available at Ulta and Nordstrom, this ultra-pigmented, waterproof gel pencil features a precise applicator that glides smoothly over skin. Its smudge-resistant formula keeps lines sharp. A reviewer emphasized, "Super smooth glide makes this easy to use, even on more delicate, older or crepe-y skin. It does not pull or tug." Another user appreciated how it enhances eyes without mascara.
5. Revlon Pencil Eyeliner
Best Waterproof Eyeliner
This drugstore classic, available at Amazon and Walmart, includes a built-in sharpener and smudger. Its waterproof, creamy formula lasts up to 24 hours. One mature user noted, "I’m old and have crepey skin everywhere including around my eyes. I needed a soft pencil as powder shadows were irritating my eyes. This pencil does the trick." Another praised its staying power and ease of removal.
6. Phyto-Eye All-in-One Eyeshadow, Pencil and Eyeliner
Best Thick Stick Eyeliner
Sold at Nordstrom and Dermstore, this multi-purpose stick serves as an eyeshadow, pencil, and eyeliner. Reviewers find it easy to use and highly pigmented. A user in their late fifties shared, "My eye lids are hooded, crinkly and pinkie in colour but these apply SO easily and are very flattering." Another fan of Sisley-Paris products highlighted its smooth application on mature eyelids.
7. Julep's "When Pencil Met Gel"
Best Metallic Eyeliner
Available on Amazon, this pencil features a gel-like formula with a subtle metallic shimmer. Its special wax blend ensures easy application without pulling, lasting over ten hours. A 65-year-old user said, "These are so easy to use on mature eyes. They are sweatproof, waterproof and stay on until you take them off." Another reviewer, aged 71, appreciated the forgiving line and shimmer suitable for older skin.
8. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Smudge-Proof Gel Eyeliner
Best Pot Eyeliner
Found at Sephora and Nordstrom, this gel-based liner comes in a pot for manual application with a brush. Its waterproof, smudge-proof formula allows for versatile styles. One nearly 80-year-old user exclaimed, "This is the first eye liner I have ever been able to use and not find myself with raccoon rings beneath my eyes in a couple of hours." Another over-60 user praised its ease of use and dramatic effects.
9. Jane Iredale Eye Pencil
Best Pencil Eyeliner
Available on Amazon and Dermstore, this mineral-based eyeliner is crafted from macadamia seed oil, shea butter, and vitamin E to condition skin. Its soft formula prevents pulling or dragging. A middle-aged reviewer stated, "This is the first eye liner I have tried in years. It's perfect! Easy to use and beautiful." Another customer loved how it fills in eyebrows effortlessly.
10. Trish McEvoy Intense Gel Eyeliner Pencil
Best Gel Pencil Eyeliner
Sold at Nordstrom and Amazon, this long-wearing gel eyeliner in pencil form includes a built-in sponge for smoky looks. Its high pigmentation and soft texture suit mature eyelids. One user noted, "It's super pigmented and soft, which I need for an older eyelid." Another older user found it defines eyes and makes them appear brighter and more awake.
Whether you're seeking a new holy grail product or looking to expand your makeup collection, these eyeliners offer reliable performance for mature skin. From budget-friendly picks to luxurious splurges, each option has been vetted by real users who appreciate formulas that glide smoothly, resist smudging, and enhance natural beauty at any age.
