Best Eyeliners for Aging Eyes (Mature Lids Over 40, 50 & 60)

by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist

Yeah, I get it! Finding the best eyeliners for aging eyes isn’t easy — many formulas tug, smear, or disappear halfway through the day. I’ve tested plenty and know how frustrating it is when nothing stays put.

That’s why I’ve rounded up the eyeliner products I personally recommend — smooth on mature lids, long-lasting, and flattering without feeling harsh.

What to look for in an eyeliner

The right eyeliner should glide on easily, stay put, and flatter without emphasizing wrinkles. Before you buy, here are a few things that really matter for mature skin:

1. Easy application – Look for creamy pencils, gel liners, or felt-tip pens that glide on without tugging.
2. Smudge resistance – Waterproof or long-wear formulas help prevent raccoon eyes, especially on watery or hooded lids.
3. Gentle ingredients – Choose hypoallergenic formulas without harsh chemicals—especially if your eyes are sensitive or dry.
4. Color tip – Black can look harsh. Try rich browns, soft grays, or deep purples to define without.
5. Types that work –   Pencil: soft, natural definition · Gel: smooth, bold, forgiving · Liquid: sharp lines, but needs a steady hand.

Still not sure what type of eyeliner to pick? This eyeliner guide for older women walks you through how to choose the right one for you!

1. Chocolate Kiss Stay Put Gel Eyeliner

Buy from Mommy Makeup

Why it’s great for aging eyes:
Glides on smoothly with about a minute of playtime, then locks down for all-day wear. The brown-black shade defines without looking harsh and won’t settle into fine lines.

Best for:
Hooded or watery lids, anyone who wants budge-proof definition without tugging.

Shade notes:
Chocolate Kiss is deeper than classic brown, softer than jet black — a flattering in-between for mature eyes. My FAVE!

Pros:

• Doesn’t smudge or fade
• Long-wear formula (even in humidity)
• Flattering brown-black shade that’s gentler than black

Cons:

• Requires makeup remover to correct after it sets Gel learning curve if you’re brand new to gels

How to apply (quick tip):
Use short dashes along the lash line, then softly connect before it sets. Tightline outer third only for lift on smaller/hooded eyes. (See my gel-liner video for a quick demo.)

2. e.l.f. H2O Proof Eyeliner Pen

Buy it on Amazon

Why it’s great for aging eyes:
This felt-tip pen gives quick, clean definition without skipping across mature lids. It’s a time-saver if you like a sharper look.

Best for:
Fast mornings, steady hands, and anyone who wants a crisp line.

Shade notes:
Available in black — bold and dramatic. For softer definition, try brown or charcoal pens instead.

Pros

• Quick and easy to use
• Stays on all day
• Works on all eye shapes

Cons

• Liquid liner may feel tacky
• Might not be fully waterproof
• Some find the liner quality lacking

3. Revant Gel Eyeliner for Mature Women

Buy on Amazon

Why it’s great for aging eyes:
Smooth gel-pencil formula glides on comfortably and holds up through long days—even workouts—without smudging.

Best for:
Everyday wear, contact lens users, and women who want precise lines without the harshness of liquid.

Shade notes:
Comes in natural-looking tones that flatter without weighing down the eyes.

Pros

• Easy and comfortable to apply
• Long-wearing, even through sweat or water
• Natural-looking, defined lines

Cons

• May need frequent sharpening
• Longevity might vary for different users
• Pencil tip can break easily.

How to apply (quick tip):
Warm the pencil tip on the back of your hand before use for smoother application. Lightly set with a matching shadow to extend wear.

4. EpiLynx Long Lasting Waterproof Eyeliner

Buy on Amazon

Why it’s great for aging eyes:
This gentle, gluten-free formula is friendly to sensitive skin and offers all-day wear. The slim tip makes creating thin, precise lines easy.

Best for:
Sensitive or allergy-prone eyes, or anyone who prefers a subtle pop of color.

Shade notes:
Dark purple flatters green, hazel, and brown eyes while staying softer than black.

Pros

• Stays put all day
• Precise tip for easy application
• Gentle on sensitive skin

Cons

• Formula is quite wet
• May dry out if not used regularly

How to apply (quick tip):
Line the upper lash line starting mid-eye, then extend slightly upward at the outer corner. Smudge gently before it dries for a softer look.

5. LAURA GELLER Kajal Eyeliner Pencil

Buy on Amazon

Why it’s great for aging eyes:
Soft pencil that glides on without tugging, delivering rich pigment that can be sharp or softly blended. Comfortable on sensitive lids.

Best for:
Daytime wear, smoky blends, or anyone wanting an easy pencil that won’t drag.

Shade notes:
Dark brown flatters most skin tones and avoids the heaviness of pure black.

Pros

• Rich, blendable color
• Infused with vitamin E and caffeine
• Includes built-in sharpener

Cons

• Thicker formula than some pencils
• Sharpener quality could be better

How to apply (quick tip):
Line the outer third of the upper and lower lash line, then smudge gently for a soft lift. Add mascara for extra definition.

Struggling with eyeliner? These might help

Need more help beyond products?

• 10 Eyeliner Tips for Aging Eyes – quick tricks to make liner more flattering
• How to Apply Eyeliner Over 40 – step-by-step tutorial with photos
• Best Eyeliner Styles by Eye Shape – find what works for your lids

Eyeliner FAQs for Mature Eyes

Got questions about eyeliner and aging eyes? You're not alone. Here are some of the most common ones—along with tips that actually work.

Takeaway:

If smudging, skipping, or tugging liners have left you frustrated, these tested picks can make buying eyeliner easy again.

Each one was chosen for how well it works on mature eyes—smooth application, flattering colors, and long wear.

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