The 12 Best Eyeliners for Older Women, Tested by Celebrity Makeup Artists (2025)

Eyeliner is an essential part of any glam makeup look. It can lift, define and add instant drama to your eyes—whether you’re going for a subtle flick or a bold statement. But let’s be real: as we age, our relationship with eyeliner can get... complicated. Luckily, we've asked celebrity makeup artists for the very best eyeliners for older women and they've shared their favorites, along with tips they swear by.

As we mature, our skin becomes softer, eyelids a little less taut, and suddenly that precise cat-eye you mastered in your 20s feels like an Olympic sport. Sounding all too familiar? Don’t sweat it—beauty truly has no expiration date, and neither does your eyeliner game. The trick to flawless eyeliner, no matter your age, is in understanding your canvas and choosing the right tools for the job. From pencils that glide on like silk to gels that won’t smudge even during a teary rom-com marathon to liquid liners that give you the perfect cat eye or winged look, the world of eyeliner is bursting with options designed to make application easier and more forgiving.

So, if you’ve ever felt like eyeliner is too tricky or that you need to hang up your winged liner ambitions, think again. Parade spoke with multiple celebrity makeup artists to uncover their must-have eyeliner picks for mature women—all of which they use on their VIP clients—including luxury and drugstore options.

Related:The #1 Beauty Product Every Woman Over 60 Needs, According to Celebrity Makeup Artists

Eyeliner is one of those makeup staples that can instantly define your eyes and elevate your look—but as we age, the way we apply it might need a little tweaking. Mature eyes come with their own unique beauty, from softer lids to delicate skin, and the key to flawless eyeliner is all about working with these changes, not against them.

Opt for formulas that glide on effortlessly (no tugging allowed!) and focus on techniques like "tightlining" to enhance your lashes or a soft, smudged line for a more diffused effect. The goal isn’t to recreate your eyeliner routine from decades ago, it’s to embrace what works for you now, because great eyeliner, or any beauty trend for that matter, isn’t about perfection—it’s about confidence.

If you’re still feeling intimidated, celebrity makeup artist and Director of Artistry and Makeup at Kevyn Aucoin, Drita Paljevic, recommends utilizing eyeshadow in addition to your liner.

“Using an ultra-fine brush, you can apply any dark-colored eyeshadow along the lash line to create a soft, smudged look," she says. "If you’d like to ‘set’ your liquid or gel-pencil liner for more depth or staying power, you can use this same shadow technique over the top of your existing line.”

Related:11 Best Eyeshadows for Mature Skin, According to Celebrity Makeup Artists

There’s just about a million different eyeliners on the market (no exaggeration)—from gel to pencils to powders—all for different styling techniques, so finding one that works for your specific needs can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. All you need to know is what to look for.

Starting with color, the stark black we all know and love, though the obvious choice, may not be the best after all.

“For more mature women I recommend opting for a brown or softer black so that it doesn’t appear as harsh,” says celebrity MUA and licensed estheticianBrielle Pollara (who has worked with multiple Real Housewives’ stars).

Then, of course, there’s the pesky issue of texture. As we age, the skin around the eyes starts to become thinner and can develop more fine lines. Due to this, you want to “look for formulas that have a nice glide and won’t tug or pull at the skin,” says trusted MUA for the likes of Dixie D'amelio and Ice Spice, as well as Head of Artistry and Global Beauty Director for Stila Cosmetics, Charlie Riddle. “Key words to look for when searching for eyeliner would be 'smudge-proof,' 'creamy' and 'long-wear.'”

Pollara also recommends opting for a waterproof formula to avoid any smudging, which ensures a fresher look throughout the day. It's best to steer clear of products with longer dry times as these allow more opportunity for the liner to crease or smear, especially on looser skin. Plus, the natural oils on our skin can interact with slow-drying formulas, potentially affecting both consistency and longevity.

Related:The 20 Best Drugstore Foundations for Mature Skin, Tested and Reviewed by Celebrity Makeup Artists

When it comes to eyeliner for mature eyes, MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline Waterproof Gel Eyeliner checks all the boxes. Its silky-smooth gel formula glides on effortlessly without tugging or pulling, which is an absolute must for delicate, aging skin. Unlike traditional pencils that can skip or liquid liners that sometimes settle into fine lines, this waterproof gel stays put, delivering rich, pigmented color that won’t smudge or budge throughout the day.

Whether you’re creating a soft, natural line or a bold wing, its precise application and long-lasting finish make it a go-to for those 50 and beyond. It’s the perfect blend of ease, performance and elegance—proof that age is just a number when it comes to nailing the perfect eyeliner look.

Type: Gel Eyeliner
Shades: 2
Benefits: Long-wearing, waterproof, smudge-resistant

Related:6 Best Youthful Hairstyles Over 50, According to Celebrity Stylists

Advertisement

Liquid eyeliner can feel intimidating, but when it comes to mature skin, it’s actually one of the best tools in your makeup arsenal—and Kevyn Aucoin Beauty Precision Liquid Eyeliner is proof.

Paljevic swears by this ultra-fine, calligraphy-inspired eyeliner pen, especially for “individuals who have a steady hand and need a little more confidence.”

Offering a precise point for ensuring your application is as easy as possible, it creates a clean, defined line that instantly lifts and enhances the eyes. And if your hand does slip? No worries.

“Whatever eyeliner you opt for, mistakes are incredibly easy to fix,” says Paljevic. “Simply wet a Q-tip or a clean angled brush with some micellar water and tidy the edges.”

Type: Liquid
Shades: 1
Benefits: Highly pigmented, long-wearing, marker-style applicator for precision

Pencil eyeliners are great for mature eyes because they’re easy to control, allowing for sharp application that won’t settle into wrinkles or create harsh, aging lines. Plus, they’re versatile enough for everything from a soft, smudged look to a more structured, defined style—giving you all the options you need to get glammed.

And when it comes to pencils, celebrity MUA Natalie Dresher, who has styled the likes of Jessica Vestal and Sierra Furtado, can’t recommend the Makeup By Mario Master Pigment Pro enough. The creamy, blendable formula glides over loose skin without tugging, and the rich pigmentation ensures a bold, defined line that doesn’t fade or smudge.

(Not sure what color to get? Dresher’s favorite is the Perfect Brown hue, in case that inspires you.)

Type: Pencil
Shades: 3
Benefits: Matte finish, long-wearing

Related: The 20 Best Facial Cleansers for Aging Skin, Tested by Dermatologists and Makeup Artists

Advertisement

Who says you have to break the bank for a flawless eyeliner look? NYX Epic Ink Vegan Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner proves that high-quality makeup doesn’t need to come with a high price tag.

Pollara recommends this liner to her clients due to its exceptional precision and smooth application, which makes it ideal for mature skin. Its ultra-fine tip allows you to create sharp, defined lines without tugging or smudging, while the waterproof, long-lasting formula stays put all day without settling into wrinkles. Affordable, vegan and versatile, it’s proof that budget-friendly options can perform just as well as their luxe counterparts—no compromise necessary.

Type: Liquid
Shades: 6
Benefits: Waterproof, flake-resistant

For mature eyes, waterproof eyeliner is a total game-changer. The formulas are essential, as they help avoid the dreaded smudging that can occur with more delicate, crepey lids—and Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner is one of the best options on the market.

“A true matte liner is most flattering for those with more mature skin,” says Dresher. “This can sometimes be hard to find as a lot of liners leave a shiny finish, but [this one] is a holy grail to me.”

This luxurious, smudge-proof liner combines the ease of a pencil with the staying power of a liquid, offering a rich, smooth application that won’t fade, flake or bleed throughout the day. Plus, the creamy, blendable texture applies like a dream, making it easy to apply without tugging or irritating sensitive skin.

Type: Pencil
Shades: 14
Benefits: Smooth application, smudge-free, waterproof, long-lasting

Related: 10 Best Contour Sticks for Mature Skin, According to Professional Makeup Artists

Advertisement

Matte eyeliner is a sophisticated choice for mature skin, and Makeup By Mario Master Mattes Liquid Eyeliner delivers the perfect formula. This eyeliner applies smoothly, offering intense color payoff without any tugging or pulling.

Pollara loves this waterproof formula and the precise, flexible applicator tip which makes it simple to create a defined line or a subtle, blurred effect. Best yet? The long-lasting, smudge-proof formula ensures your look stays intact throughout the day.

Type: Liquid
Shades: 1
Benefits: Waterproof, long-wearing, flexible tip

For those seeking a clean, non-toxic eyeliner that doesn’t sacrifice performance, ILIA Clean Liquid Eyeliner should be on your list. This formula offers a sleek, smudge-resistant finish without being waterproof, making it a top-notch choice for women that might prefer a gentler, more breathable option. It’s also quick-drying, which makes for an easy application process, says Pollara.

Unlike waterproof liners that can sometimes be tricky to remove, ILIA’s clean formula offers the right balance of long-lasting wear without the hassle of heavy-duty removers, making it the impeccable for those looking for a more straightforward, comfortable liner option.

Type: Liquid
Shades: 1
Benefits: Long-wearing, clean

Related: The 20 Best Primers for Mature Skin, According to Professional Makeup Artists

Advertisement

Having trouble with eyeliner application? Say hello to the Stila Cosmetics Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner. The ultra-fine applicator gives you complete control, allowing you to create the most intricate, defined looks—even along the delicate lash line.

“This has a micro-fine felt tip that allows you to create the thinnest of lines, which is often what older clients prefer for a more natural definition,” says Riddle. “I also love this liner to paint the lashes for any gaps you may miss at the root when applying mascara. It also won’t move until removed, so it won’t transfer under eyes or onto hooded lids.”

Type: Liquid
Shades: 2
Benefits: Waterproof, smooth application, long-wearing

If you’re a gel liner enthusiast, you know that the brush you choose is just as important as the liner itself. Rose Siard, a well-regarded makeup educator, swears by using a bent liner brush to “help reduce tugging on delicate eye areas.”

This brush’s angled design allows for easy maneuvering along the lash line, and the firm yet soft bristles pick up the perfect amount of gel liner, ensuring smooth, even application, making it easier to achieve both subtle definition and bolder, more dramatic looks. Not to mention, the ergonomic handle also provides excellent grip, giving you full control over your application, which is particularly important as the skin around the eyes becomes more sensitive with age.

Type: Brush (best used with gel)
Shades: 1
Benefits: Smooth application

Related: 11 Best Clean Moisturizers for Women Over 50, According to a Professional Makeup Artist

Advertisement

Unlike some pencil liners that can tug or pull at the delicate skin around the eyes, Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner rolls on easily, offering rich, intense color with minimal pressure. The gel consistency is forgiving and gentle, unlike liquid liners that can bleed or pencils that require more pressure.

Plus it’s buildable, so you can create hone in on those dramatic statement looks, all while keeping the application process gentle and comfortable, says Siard.

Type: Gel
Shades: 2
Benefits: Smooth application, waterproof, long-lasting

If you’re willing to make the investment, the epitome of luxury and performance is the Tom Ford Gel Eyeliner. Celebrity makeup artist Elaina Badro, who has worked with some of the top supermodels like Alessandra Ambrosio, loves this product for the silky-smooth formula that glides on gracefully, providing a rich, intense color payoff.

Perfect for mature skin, this product offers long-lasting wear without settling into fine lines, keeping your eyes looking fresh and vibrant all day long.

Type: Pencil
Shades: 3
Benefits: Smooth application

Related: Jennifer Lopez’s Makeup Artist Shared His #1 Hack To ‘Take 20 Years Off Your Face’

Advertisement

One of the best-selling eyeliners in the U.S., it’s no surprise celeb MUAs have this bad boy in their makeup kits. Thanks to its ultra-smooth, gel-like texture that flawlessly slides on the skin, Urban Decay won’t get caught on the looser skin around the eyes.

Unlike many eyeliners, it provides the perfect balance of softness and precision—all without the harshness that can often accentuate fine lines. What makes this pencil even better is its impressive range of 29 shades, so you can choose everything from classic neutrals to vibrant hues.

Type: Pencil
Shades: 29
Benefits: Smudge-proof, waterproof