Beauty Kajal vs Kohl Eyeliner: 5 Waterline Pencils Compared Today
We compared five kajal eyeliners spanning drugstore to premium: two Rimmel Scandaleyes, one VASANTI, and two Laura Geller pencils. Prices run from five to twenty-two dollars. The Rimmel pencils win on bold pigment and price, VASANTI wins on sensitive-eye gentleness, and Laura Geller wins on refined shades and finish. All five handle the waterline better than standard eyeliners. Read on for the detailed breakdown of pigment, wear, comfort, and value.
| Factor | Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal | Rimmel London Scandaleyes Waterproof Gel |
|---|---|---|
| Waterline Staying Power | The Rimmel Scandaleyes waterproof gel pencil grips the waterline longest, holding for hours where others fade. The Scandaleyes kohl version performs nearly as well. VASANTI was designed for the waterline and stays respectably. The Laura Geller pencils set to a budge-proof finish that holds up well. For pure waterline endurance, Rimmel takes the lead. | |
| Pigment Richness | The Rimmel 001 Black delivers the most intense black in one stroke. The Scandaleyes Sparkling Black adds shimmer dimension to strong pigment. VASANTI Intense Black lives up to its name with deep color. Laura Geller Soft Black is intentionally softer, while Soft Slate is the subtlest. Drama lovers should pick Rimmel. | |
| Sensitive Eye Comfort | VASANTI leads with its paraben-free formula made for delicate eyes. The Laura Geller pencils glide gently and suit mature eyes. The Rimmel formulas are safe but less refined, and the sparkling version may bother very sensitive eyes. For reactive eyes, VASANTI is the safest bet. | |
| Smoky Blending Ease | The Laura Geller kajals blend like a dream thanks to their creamy longwear texture. The Rimmel kohl smudges well before setting. VASANTI blends smoothly in the first minute. The waterproof gel sets fastest, demanding quick work. For smoky eyes, Laura Geller wins on blendability. | |
| Shade Range Interest | Laura Geller offers the most interesting shades with Soft Black and Soft Slate grey. Rimmel covers classic black plus a sparkling variant. VASANTI focuses on one perfect intense black. Shoppers wanting subtle alternatives to black should look at Laura Geller first. | |
| Value for Money | The Rimmel pencils cost a quarter of the premium options and perform admirably. VASANTI and Laura Geller charge for refinement, gentleness, and shade sophistication. Daily waterline wearers get value from premium comfort. Occasional users get everything they need from Rimmel. Best pure value goes to Rimmel. | |
| Overall Winner | The Rimmel London Scandaleyes Waterproof Gel Pencil in 001 Black wins overall for its unbeatable mix of intense pigment, waterline staying power, and tiny price. Sensitive eyes should upgrade to VASANTI. Shade lovers should explore Laura Geller. But for most buyers, Rimmel delivers the kajal essentials brilliantly. | |
Our Verdict
The Rimmel London Scandaleyes Waterproof Gel Pencil in 001 Black is the overall winner, offering intense kajal pigment and real waterline staying power for under eight dollars. It proves great kajal does not require a big budget. VASANTI is the pick for sensitive eyes thanks to its gentle paraben-free formula. Laura Geller justifies its premium with beautiful shades and luxurious blending. Choose Rimmel for value and drama, VASANTI for gentleness, or Laura Geller for refinement. Any of the five beats a standard eyeliner on the waterline.
More Top Picks in This Category
Not sold on either of these two? Here are more bestselling options worth considering.
Best for: Contact lens wearers who need a gentle waterline kajal.
VASANTI Kajal Waterline Eyeliner Pencil, Intense Black
- Waterline-safe kajal in intense black
- Paraben-free formula gentle on eyes
- Long-wear pigment that resists running
- Fine tip for precise inner-rim application
Pros
- Stays put on the waterline longer than most
- Clean formula suits sensitive eyes
- Intense pigment in a single stroke
Cons
- Pricier than drugstore kajals
- Fine tip can snap with pressure
- Limited shade range
Best for: Everyday soft definition with real staying power.
LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Kajal Longwear Kohl Eyeliner Pencil, Soft Black
- Soft black kohl with longwear technology
- Creamy glide that sets to a budge-proof finish
- Safe for waterline and tightlining
- Elegant pencil with a smooth twist mechanism
Pros
- Soft black looks natural, not harsh
- Sets without creasing on lids
- Good for mature eyes that need gentle glide
Cons
- Soft black may disappoint drama lovers
- Twist mechanism can stick
- Mid-range price adds up if repurchased often
Best for: Light eyes that need definition without heavy black liner.
LAURA GELLER NEW YORK Kajal Longwear Kohl Eyeliner Pencil, Soft Slate
- Soft slate grey kohl for subtle definition
- Longwear formula resists smudging all day
- Creamy texture safe for the waterline
- Cool grey tone flatters blue and green eyes
Pros
- Grey softens the eye without washing out
- Great alternative to harsh black
- Blends beautifully for smoky effects
Cons
- Too subtle for evening drama
- Shows up lighter on deep skin
- Same twist-mechanism quirks as its sibling