When it comes to Indian beauty rituals, our enduring affinity with eyeliners is evident in how we’ve been known to wear them – not just as cosmetics but as protection against the evil eye. We have, however, come a long way since kohl was brought to life by grinding soot from burning oil lamps and blending it with ghee or sesame oil. This centuries-old pigment has gone from being dotted on children’s foreheads to smudges or flicks that make our eyes “pop”. So, why not take a look here at home for the best eyeliners on offer in India:
1. SUGAR Cosmetics Eye Warned You So! Double Matte Eyeliner
With a richly-pigmented formula, the Eye Warned You So! Matte Eyeliner by SUGAR Cosmetics is engineered to manifest as an intense, matte finish for Indian skin. Of all liquid liners out there, this winner promises 17+ hours of moisture-resistant wear in 4 terrific shades: Black Swan, Blue Jasmine, Green Book and Coffee Shop.
Wear it like Tira would: As a dramatic winged eyeliner style with a pointed wing
2. Lakmé Eyeconic Liquid Eyeliner
Concocted for humid weather, the sweat-proof formulation of Lakmé’s Eyeconic Liquid Eyeliner has a a flex-tip brush that redefines precise application. A favourite for daily use, this made-in-India stunner is dermatologically tested as a safe choice for contact lens wearers and can also be used on the go.
Wear it like Tira would: As a classic cat-eye with a thin line and subtle wing
3. KIRO Liquid Pen Eyeliner Waterproof Soft Matte Eyeliner
Ethical in its making, KIRO’s Liquid Pen Eyeliner offers a soft matte finish once it's traced on the eyes. With its quick-dry formula, this homegrown star is free from common allergens, making it gentle on the eyes. It is as convenient to remove as it is to apply.
Wear it like Tira would: As a graphic liner with a thick line and squared-off wing.
4. Plum Eye-Swear-By Matte Liner
Striking in its variety of eight different shades from sky blue to light pink, Plum Goodness has mastered a smudge-proof formula for its Eye-Swear-By Matte Liner. An MUA-loved eyeliner with a velvety touch, it is uniquely fused with argan oil to keep the eyes from drying. This long-stay eyeliner has a grip that is just perfect for beginners.
Wear it like Tira would: A thin line that hugs the lash line and a subtle flick at the outer corner for a sophisticated look.
5. PAC Longlasting Kohl Pencil
Blended with natural oils and waxes, the PAC Longlasting Kohl Pencil – a tribute to India’s vanity essential – glides over the lash line without tugging or pulling. With a vibrant palette of shades like electric blue and emerald green, this long-wearing and ultra-pigmented pencil comes with a smudge tool to fashion a smokey eye when you’re in the mood for it.
Wear it like Tira would: As a thick line that is smudged out for a sultry, smoky effect.
6. MARS Free Flow Liquid Eyeliner
Bottled in an eye-catching metallic tube, the Free Flow Eyeliner by Indian-based MARS Cosmetics is effortless to locate in a crowded makeup kit. As an economical option, this eyeliner settles into a semi-matte finish when bordered along the lash line, to create the illusion of fuller lashes or even a winged, feline look.
Wear it like Tira would: As a thick line extending into the outer corner of the eye.