The Three Eyeliners I Tried Last Week: No Powder, No Black

Two sad truths I acknowledged last week: I am pale (usually) and my beloved black powder eyeliner can make a pale gal look sort of zombie-ish when it migrates down below my lower lashes.

So I switched it up: three new formulas, three livelier colors. Here are the results:

1. Elizabeth Arden Color Intrigue Gel Eyeliner With Brush ($22.50)
Color: Ocean Teal
Formula: Gel
Notable: Far easier to apply than I expected, and far less crazy-club-kid blue. The shade is incredibly pretty.

2. Wet N Wild H2O Proof Liquid Eyeliner ($4)
Color: Espresso
Formula: Liquid
Notable: Really, seriously waterproof. I put this on, went for a run, tried to take it off with makeup remover, showered, and still had some on.

3. Pixi Lid And Line Eye Makeup ($18)
Color: Smoky Mink
Formula: Pencil
Notable: Goes on smoothly, and doesn’t look waxy like other pencils I’ve tried. It also comes with shadow and a sponge for smudging – all in a package the size of a pen.

Conclusions: I think the Elizabeth Arden liner is going to be my new go-to – it’s really that wearable. I’m stashing the Pixi in my desk because it’s so easy to swipe on and smudge in. I’ll put on the Wet N Wild stuff during my imaginary romantic beach vacation.