Okay you’ve read the headline, but you might be surprised the answer is a makeup product that’s as old as time (or at least as old as Cleopatra).
Yes, eyeliner is trending.
Not the sleek, elongated liquid one that’s impossible to get right, but the soft, easy pencil-type that doesn’t need perfect application.
There’s been talk recently about beauty overwhelm – too many products, too little time. The return of simple pencil and kohl liners is one reply to the sentiment.
Soft pencil liners are easy to use, and the new generation are designed for a quick sketch along the base of your lashes – it’s up to you whether you do both the top and the bottom.
Then, you simply use your finger, a brush, a cotton bud or a built in smudger tool to gently blend the line, or keep it defined.
Kiwi clean beauty brand Aleph has just released a collection of multi-use liners that’s perfect for the job. While they don’t have the staying power of some other options, they also have a natural formulation that includes organic jojoba seed oil for hydration, Oryzanol from rice bran oil for antioxidant protection, organic carnauba wax for glide, and plant-based alternatives to silicone for wear and breathability.
We have loved wearing the Aleph pencil in Fig (above, middle), a rich plum shade that gives a smoky eye a modern upgrade.
Another hit pick in our books? The arrival of Victoria Beckham’s beauty line at MECCA has given us access to the brand’s famous Satin Kajal Liners. For staying power we’ve found little better performance-wise and the colour selection is elite. Our favourite is the soft shimmering brown colour called cinnamon, but the burgundy of Bordeaux is stunning too.
Both of these pencils can be scribbled over the wider area of the lid and quickly blended for an easy eyeshadow look too. Just work quickly with the VB one as it sets swiftly.
The best eye pencils of 2025
Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner
Aleph Eye/Lip Multi Liner in Fig
YSL Beauty Lines Liberated Eyeliner
By Terry Crayon Blackstar
Maybelline Tattoo Liner Automatic Gel Pencil
