Image: MomJunction Design Team
A good kohl pencil or eyeliner can Kajal is known to instantly accentuate your eyes, making them look brighter and more put-together. This vanity-essential will solidify its place in your makeup routine for its sheer ability to add a bold and elevated look. Kajals are a versatile product that can be used for lining both under and over your eyes, allowing you to make a style statement.
A staple in every woman’s makeup pouch, there’s no end to the variety of looks that a kajal can help create, whether it’s a sultry smokey eye, a cat eye, or a double-winged look. But when faced with the issue of buying the right kajal, whether or not it smudges is a major concern. A kajal that smudges can make your dark circles look more prominent and ruin your look. We’ve rounded up some of the best smudge-proof kajals in India, so you can choose whichever you like the most!
Top Picks
13 Best Smudge-Proof Kajals In India
1. Lakme Eyeconic Kajal
The Lakme Eyeconic Kajal is a cult-favorite for those who want a lasting color. It is ultra pigmented and stays put for up to 22 hours. This kajal stick boasts an easy-to-use design that comes especially handy when you are short on time. Contrary to traditional kajal pencils, this one doesn’t need sharpening, which may also help you save on the product’s quantity. It can be used on the waterline, eyelids, or both and comes with a multi-use feature that lets you create different looks with just one tool.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Waterproof
- Smudge-resistant
- Available in 5 shades
- Suitable for daily use
- Safe for contact lens users
Cons
- Might need to apply more than one stroke for a bolder look
2. Maybelline New York The Colossal Kajal
Formulated with rich ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin C and E, this kajal stick helps keep your eyes healthy and provides a soothing effect. This roll-on stick offers a matter finish and is ophthalmologically tested, smudge-resistant, makes for easy application. This kajal lasts for up to 24 hours and can be used on both the waterline and the eyelid to create various looks.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Safe for contact lens wearers
- It can be used daily
- Glides easily on the eyes
Cons
- One may need to apply a lot of product
3. Elle 18 Eye Drama Kajal
The Elle 18 Eye Drama Kajal is an ideal kajal stick for a sharp and bold look. This kajal lasts up to 12 hours and is ophthalmologically tested for your safety. Also suitable for those with sensitive eyes, this multifunctional makeup tool can dress up both the waterline and the eyelid for a more defined look.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Deeply pigmented
- Safe for contact lens wearers
- Suitable for daily and occasion wear
- Smooth texture
- Matte finish
Cons
- Some may find the kajal to be slightly sticky
4. Faces Canada MagnetEyes Kajal
The Faces Canada MagnetEyes Kajal is a cruelty-free option that lasts for up to 24 hours. It is formulated with vitamin E, minerals, and antioxidants, which help soothe the eyes and protect them. The smudge-proof kajal can be used to create simple or even dramatic looks as the product can be applied on both the waterline and can also be used on the eyelid as an eyeliner. The matte finish will give you a clean and powerful look.
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive eyes
- Waterproof formula
- Easy to apply
- Intense pigmentation
- Glides on smoothly
Cons
- Some may find the texture too thick
5. Plum NaturStudio All-Day-Wear Kohl Kajal
The Plum NaturStudio All-Day Wear Kohl Kajal is specially formulated with a gel base that contains vitamin E and is entirely vegan. Natural ingredients such as rice bran wax moisturizes the eyes and hydrogenated castor oil helps hydrate and lengthen your eyelashes. It is tested both dermatologically and ophthalmologically, making it safe for sensitive eyes. With a staying lasting power of up to 12 hours, this cruelty and paraben-free kajal can be applied on the waterline to give your eyes a fuller look.
Pros
- Smooth texture
- Water-resistant
- Easy to apply
- Intense pigmentation
- Contains soothing ingredients
- Sharpener included
Cons
- Some users found it hard to wipe off
6. Lotus Make-Up Natural Kajal
The Lotus Make-Up Natural Kajal is a herbal wonder that gains its power from camphor, known for its cooling properties and its ability to improve eyesight. Formulated with natural products like almond oil, this kajal helps increase eyelash length when applied to the inner eyelid. The product can be used on both the waterline and the upper lash line to create different looks. The color runs deep and settles as an opaque finish.
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Has anti-aging properties
- Intense color
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- This product may not be entirely waterproof
7. L’Oreal Paris Kajal Magique Bold
The L’Oreal Paris Kajal Magique Bold with 25% concentrated black pigment is formulated to ensure that you get a deep, black, and accentuated look. Formulated with vitamin E, this kajal stick helps soothe the eyes and is ophthalmologically tested. Infused with ingredients like olive oil esters, cocoa butter, and vitamin C, this smudge-proof kajal has a staying power of up to 14 hours. The smooth texture will not only give you a bold and complete look, but it can also be used to define both the waterline and eyelids.
Pros
- Thick consistency
- Safe for people with contact lenses
- Matte finish
- Non-transferable
- Contains natural ingredients
- Waterproof
Cons
- It may not glide as easily as expected
8. SUGAR Kohl Of Honour Intense Kajal
The Sugar Kohl Of Honour Intense Kajal delivers a deep color with a smooth application. It is gentle on the eyes as it is free from parabens and is dermatologically tested for sensitive skin types. It stays put throughout the day since it is formulated with a base of wax, and you never have to worry about it creasing, caking, or smearing. The kajal can withstand sweat and requires no touch-ups throughout the day.
Pros
- Opaque finish
- Available in 6 shades
- Glides smoothly on the waterline and lash line
- Color is deeply pigmented
- Transfer-resistant
- Suitable for contact lens users
Cons
- You may need more than one stroke for a more intense look.
9. Himalaya Pure Expression Kajal
The Himalaya Pure Expression Kajal is formulated with ingredients like triphala, camphor, rose, and almond oil, making it a must-have for those with sensitive eyes. It is also free from mineral oils, parabens, and synthetic colors, making the black color 100% natural. The ophthalmologically-tested retractable pencil is smudge-proof and can be used on the waterline as a kajal or on the eyelids as an eyeliner, making it multifunctional.
Pros
- Water-resistant
- Fine tip for easy application
- Matte finish
- Long staying power
Cons
- This kajal’s thick texture may make your eyes feel a bit heavy
10. Revlon Kohl Kajal
Formulated with aloe vera and vitamin E, the Revlon Kohl Kajal provides a soft yet defined look owing to its powder matte finish. The kajal pencil is suitable for creating simple, everyday looks as well as bold and dramatic ones. The soft tip enables a quick blend, while contouring is made easy to create a smokey eye.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Sharpener included
- Intense black pigmentation
- Has a long staying power
- Easy to apply
Cons
- May not be suitable for use on the waterline
11. House Of Makeup Oh My Black! Kajal
The House Of MakeUp Oh My Black! Kajal lasts up to 12 hours and is both vegan and cruelty-free. It is formulated without sulfates or parabens to keep the area around your eyes healthy. The smudge-proof kajal pencil has a soft texture, making it easy on the eyes. Easy to apply and suitable for people on the go, this smudge-proof formula lends a pigmented matte finish.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Glides smoothly
- Matte finish
- Intense color pigmentation
- Smooth application
- Transfer-resistant
Cons
- It might be difficult to wipe off
12. Iba All-Day Kohl Kajal
The Iba All-Day Kohl Kajal is ideal for an intense 24-hour look with its smudge-proof and waterproof formula. Free from chemicals and parabens, this kajal stick is infused with ingredients like jojoba oil for a deeply nourishing effect. Dermatologically tested, this product is also suitable for those with sensitive skin. For lasting, soothing, and intense eye makeup, this kajal is ideal for you. To create a defined look, it can be used on both the waterline and the eyelids.
Pros
- Water-resistant formula
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Safe for contact lens wearers
- Alcohol-free
- Suitable for people with sensitive eyes
- Long-stay formula
Cons
- It may not glide as easily as expected
13. Swiss Beauty Bold And Black Kajal
Formulated with moisturizing ceramides, The Swiss Beauty Bold And Black Kajal provides the eyes with intense nourishment and helps keep them healthy. The finish is matte and lasts up to 24 hours without fading. The pencil kajal stick is smudge-proof and convenient to use. This kajal stick can be used to define both your waterline and eyelid for a bold and intense look.
Pros
- Non-transfer
- Suitable for sensitive eyes
- Deeply pigmented
- Velvety soft texture
- Water-resistant
Cons
- The thick texture might feel heavy on your eyes
Things To Consider When Buying A Smudge-Proof Kajal
- Ease of removal
Smudge-proof kajals are specially formulated to stay put for a long time, but they shouldn’t be so stubborn that one needs to scrub and tug at the skin excessively to remove it. Since the eye area is delicate, it needs to be cared for, and a kajal that will come off with a gentle makeup remover or cleanser should be considered. Products formulated with natural oils are healthy for the eyes, and also come off easily.
- Ingredients
Since kajals are used to line the eyes, they can cause irritation and inflammation if the product doesn’t suit one’s skin type. To ensure that doesn’t happen, it is best to look for products with calming and soothing ingredients, are paraben and sulfate-free, and dermatologically and ophthalmologically tested. If a kajal is formulated with herbal and natural ingredients, it is even better for your skin. Some ingredients to look out for include almond, rose, olive, castor oils, and vitamin C and E.
- Finish
Kajals that are formulated to offer a matte finish provide depth to the eyes, and make them look bold. Kajals with an opaque finish are darker, and can give you a strong look with definition in a single stroke. If you want something to dress up your eyes for special occasions, you can also change it up once in a while with a glossy kajal. The pigment in it is lighter, and they have a hint of sparkle to them.
- Lasting effect
A good smudge-proof kajal stays put for a long time without the need for retouching. The amount of time the kajal can last is usually mentioned on the package. You can opt for products that claim to last ‘up to 12 hours’, or ‘up to 24 hours’. Some kajals that claim to have longer staying power may irritate sensitive eyes, so it would be wise to confirm the safety of the ingredients as well.
- Pigmentation
A good kajal provides a rich, intense color that is deeply pigmented. It allows for a bold look that is prominent after a single stroke, and both matte and opaque finishes help define the eyes. Look for words such as ‘jet black’, ‘intense color’, or ‘rich pigment’ on the packaging. A swatch test can also easily help determine how pigmented a kajal is.
A good-quality smudge-proof kajal is a makeup staple that we all need to accentuate the look of our eyes. Its ability to stay put for longer hours and resist smudging in heat and humidity gives it an edge over its conventional counterparts. And the good news is that the market is replete with choices if you’re into different colors and finishes, such as glittery and shimmery. When investing in a smudge-resistant kajal, make sure that you check the ingredients list and settle for one that is free of additives and chemicals. And when you get the right kajal, it can even double as an eyeliner, making it a versatile addition to your makeup vanity.
Recommended Articles
