Aisling on Beauty: 5 liquid eyeliners put to the test

I have been wearing liquid eyeliner since my teens. I have tried out countless brands with different price ranges, formulas and pen shapes, but I always return to my make-up soulmate: Lancôme Artliner. Its deep black line was so easy to control I could apply it in 20 seconds.

Then something changed. The formula was altered a couple of years ago and cracks began to appear in our relationship. The liner began to peel off halfway through the day. It became difficult to draw that smooth black strip across my eyelids. It started to look patchy. I still have Artliner in my bag but I really want the original formula back. It was time to get back in the saddle and look for other options. Here are five I tried:

Charlotte Tilbury The Feline Flick

A superb liquid eyeliner. The length of the pen is just right, making it easy to get a smooth and professional effect. You can then choose to thicken it up and build up the line for added drama.

• Verdict: Versatile and jet black. One of the best liners out there.

Clinique Pretty Easy Eyelining Pen

The thin pen is perhaps a shade too long, making it difficult for beginners to have complete control. It requires a steady hand but a bit of practice will sort you out. The result will be a saturated black, professional-looking line that will not dominate your eyes, just enhance them.

• Verdict: Best for those who like a subtle effect close to the lash line.

L’Oréal Super Liner Superstar

My new match made in heaven. It is easy to apply, jet black, long-lasting and makes the perfect line a cinch to draw. It beats some more expensive brands hands-down.

• Verdict: My favourite. Will work well for novices and pros alike.

Artistry Signature Eyes Automatic Liquid Liner

I had heard great things about this pen, and it is one of Artistry’s global best-sellers, so I was disappointed that I didn’t feel the love. A good liquid liner should produce an intense black line instantly, but this pen required running over more than once to produce a line free from streaks and an uneven effect.

• Verdict: There are better.

Estée Lauder Little Black Liner

Although this is more of a marker-pen-style liner than a liquid, it is so good that I am willing to overlook this. The flat side of the pen will draw a thick line, and the tip will create a perfect flick that is as black and delicate as any liner purist could wish.

• Verdict: You can build this up to go full-on Amy Winehouse, and it is really easy to apply.

amcdermott@irishtimes.com

Twitter @aismcdermott