Best Eyeliner for Contact Lense Wearers- Pencil / Liquid / Gel?

by Josie
(Honolulu HI USA)

I'm a contact lens wearer who loves the look of eyeliner, but I'm having trouble finding one that won't stick to my contacts. I've tried several pencil liners, but they've all caused problems with my lenses. I'd love to be able to line my waterline and around my eyes safely.

Has anyone found a contact-lens-friendly eyeliner (either pencil or liquid) that actually works? I'd really appreciate any recommendations or tips for applying eyeliner while wearing contacts!

Thanks.

Editor's Note

Hello Josie,

Thank you for reaching out with your question about the best eyeliner for contact lens wearers.

While I don't wear contacts myself, I do have some recommendations that might help you find the perfect liner!

Instead of a pencil or liquid eyeliner, I suggest trying a waterproof gel eyeliner.

Why Waterproof Gel Liners?

Gel liners are known for their smooth application, quick-drying formula, and excellent staying power. Once applied, they stay put all day without smudging or transferring—ideal for avoiding contact lens mishaps.

What Makes Gel Different?

Gel eyeliner tends to stay put better around your eyes because of its thicker, creamier texture. Think of it like this: pencil eyeliner is powdery and can crumble (like chalk), while liquid eyeliner is very fluid and can run (like water). Both of these can easily float into your eyes and stick to your contacts.

Gel eyeliner, however, is more like a paste - it's thicker and stickier, so once you apply it, it sets in place and doesn't break down into tiny particles or drip like the others. This means it's much less likely to migrate into your eyes and cause problems with your contact lenses.

It's similar to how thick paint sticks to a wall better than watery paint - the gel formula grabs onto your skin and stays there, rather than wandering where it shouldn't go.

I personally use a waterproof gel liner and can confidently say it holds up incredibly well throughout the day. Plus, as someone with sensitive eyes prone to irritation, I’ve found this type of liner to be gentle yet effective.

For me, only this gel liner and the Maybelline Eye Pencil have proven to be non-irritating.

Additionally, you might find value in this tutorial:

How To Apply Waterproof Eyeliner Tutorial by makeup artist, Debra Rubin-Roberts.

Also, visit Tips on How To Apply Eyeliner for Older Women. It offers step-by-step tips to ensure a flawless and long-lasting look while also being contact-lens-friendly.

Here are some easy tips for using eyeliner when you wear contacts:

1. Put your contacts in before applying eyeliner.
2. If you wear mascara, choose a waterproof mascara that's safe for sensitive eyes.
3. Wash your hands before putting in your contacts and applying eye makeup.
4. Take out your contacts before removing eye makeup.
5. Replace your eyeliner every few months.
6. If your eyes get irritated, try lining just a bit below your waterline, right into your lashes. This might help avoid irritation.

These tips can help keep your eyes comfortable while wearing makeup with contacts.

I hope this helps you achieve the eyeliner look you desire without any discomfort. Let me know how it works out for you!

Warm regards,
Linda