Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner Review: Does It Actually Last All Day?
Introduction
You've been there. You spend ten minutes getting your eyeliner just right — sharp, clean, perfectly symmetrical — and by noon it's migrated halfway down your face. Smudging, fading, raccoon eyes. It's one of the most frustrating makeup problems out there, and it happens with way too many pencil liners, even ones that claim to be "long-lasting."
That's exactly why we put the Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner through its paces for this review. This is one of the most talked-about affordable waterproof eyeliner options at the drugstore level, and the 2-pack in shade 201 Black is a popular pick on Amazon. But does it actually deliver on its smudge-proof, long-lasting promises? We've tested it, looked at what real buyers say, and broken down everything you need to know in this full revlon colorstay pencil waterproof eyeliner review so you can decide with confidence.
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Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner – 201 Black (2 Pack) |
| Category | Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner |
| Best For | Everyday wear, oily lids, humid climates, long days |
| Price Range | $10–$16 for 2-pack |
| Rating | ⭐ 4.4 / 5 |
| Buy Link | View on Amazon |
Who Is This Product For?
Before you buy, it helps to know whether this is actually the right fit for your routine. Here's a quick breakdown.
This product is ideal for:
- People with oily eyelids who've given up on regular pencil liners. Oily lids are the number one reason eyeliner smudges, and this formula is specifically built to resist that. It's one of the better drugstore options for this particular problem.
- Budget-conscious makeup lovers who don't want to spend $30+ on a department store liner. At roughly $5–$8 per pencil in the 2-pack, you're getting solid performance at a fraction of the luxury price. Buy Now
- Busy people who don't have time to retouch. If you need eyeliner that looks decent from morning coffee to after-work drinks without a mirror in between, this is built for that kind of day.
This may NOT be ideal for:
- Those who prefer a liquid or felt-tip liner look. This is a traditional pencil — it gives a slightly softer, more lived-in line. If you want razor-sharp precision and a graphic liner aesthetic, a liquid liner would serve you better.
Product Overview Table
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Brand | Revlon |
| Shade | 201 Black |
| Pack Size | 2 pencils |
| Finish | Matte |
| Built-In Feature | Sharpener included |
| Formula | Waterproof, smudge-proof |
| Amazon Link | Buy on Amazon |
Key Features of the Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner
Smudge-Proof Formula That Actually Holds
Here's where most budget liners fall flat — they say smudge-proof and then give up by 11 AM. The Revlon ColorStay formula is different. Once it sets on the lid, it grips and stays put for hours. We're talking through workouts, humidity, and the kind of sweaty commute that tests everything. It's not magic, and a very oily lid might still see some fading after 8+ hours — but for a pencil liner at this price point, the staying power genuinely impressed us. For a revlon smudge proof eyeliner review, this gets high marks.
Built-In Sharpener — Small Detail, Big Convenience
This sounds minor. But if you've ever dug through your makeup bag looking for a sharpener at 7 AM, you'll appreciate how much this matters. Both pencils come with a small sharpener at the end cap, so you can keep the tip precise without needing a separate tool. It keeps the formula from dragging (a dull tip = more pulling = more smearing) and honestly extends the life of the pencil. Tiny detail, genuinely useful.
Affordable Waterproof Eyeliner That Competes With Drugstore Staples
When people talk about affordable waterproof eyeliner drugstore options, Revlon's ColorStay line almost always comes up — and there's a reason for that. The brand has been refining this formula for years. At roughly $5–$8 per pencil, it competes directly with options from L'Oreal and NYX that sit at similar price points, and in our experience, it holds its own against both. You're not compromising here. You're just being smart with your money. Buy Now
Matte Finish for a Clean, Classic Look
Not everyone wants shimmer in their liner. Sometimes you just want a clean, matte black line that works for the office, a dinner date, or literally any occasion. That's exactly what the 201 Black shade delivers. The pigmentation is strong — one pass gives you a solid, opaque line — and the matte finish means no glitter fallout or shift in color throughout the day. It's a classic for a reason.
Works as Both Liner and Smoky Eye Base
One thing that doesn't always get talked about in revlon eyeliner pencil before and after comparisons is versatility. This pencil is soft enough to smudge out immediately after application if you want a smokier, blended look — but firm enough to give you a defined line if you apply it with intention. You get two looks from one product. Work it tight to the lash line for precision, or smudge it with a brush or fingertip for that diffused evening look.
Long-Lasting Wear Without Irritation
Sensitive eyes are a real concern with waterproof liners — some formulas cause stinging, dryness, or irritation, especially near the waterline. This one is ophthalmologist-tested and suitable for contact lens wearers, which makes a difference for a lot of people. You're not trading comfort for longevity here. It delivers both.
Pros and Cons Table
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong smudge-proof and waterproof hold | Harder to remove than regular liners |
| Built-in sharpener on each pencil | Can skip slightly on very dry skin |
| Rich, highly pigmented matte black | 2-pack only available in black (201) |
| Versatile — works for precise or smoky looks | May fade on extremely oily lids after 8+ hrs |
| Great value for money (2-pack) | Pencil sharpener is basic — works but not premium |
| Ophthalmologist-tested, contact-lens safe | Not ideal for waterline use all day |
| Widely available — easy to repurchase | Slight learning curve to get the sharpest line |
How to Use the Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner
Getting the most out of this liner comes down to technique. Here's what works:
-
Sharpen before each use. The built-in sharpener is right there — use it. A sharper tip means a cleaner line and less dragging. Even a quick sharpen at the start of your session makes a noticeable difference.
-
Apply to a primed lid. If you have oily lids, apply an eyeshadow primer first and let it dry for 30 seconds. This creates a gripping base for the liner and dramatically extends how long it stays put. This step alone can take the wear from 6 hours to 10+.
-
Line in short, connected strokes. Don't try to draw one long continuous line in one go — most people can't pull that off without wobbling. Short strokes, connected together, give you a more controlled and precise result. You can clean up the edge with a small brush dipped in concealer afterward. Buy Now
-
Wait 60 seconds before opening your eyes fully. Seriously. Give the formula a moment to set before your lid folds and contacts the liner. This prevents the top lid impression that ruins a lot of freshly applied liner.
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Use a micellar water or oil-based remover at night. Waterproof formulas need a proper remover — don't tug at your eyes with a dry cotton pad. Soak the area first, hold for a few seconds, then wipe gently. Your skin and lashes will thank you.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Revlon ColorStay Pencil | L'Oreal Infallible Pro-Last | NYX Professional Epic Ink Liner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Pencil | Pencil / Waterproof | Liquid liner |
| Finish | Matte | Matte | High-gloss black |
| Waterproof | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Smudge-Proof | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Built-In Sharpener | Yes | No | N/A (felt tip) |
| Price (approx.) | $10–$16 (2-pack) | $9–$13 | $10–$13 |
| Best For | Pencil lovers, oily lids | Pencil lovers, sensitive skin | Sharp graphic liner looks |
| Pigmentation | High | High | Very high |
The L'Oreal Infallible Pro-Last is the closest real competitor in the same category. It's also a waterproof pencil with great staying power, and the formula is slightly creamier, which some people prefer. Where Revlon pulls ahead is the value — the 2-pack gives you a backup pencil, and the built-in sharpener is a convenience L'Oreal doesn't include. The NYX Epic Ink Liner is excellent but it's a liquid liner, which is a completely different application experience.
What Real Buyers Say
We reviewed a wide range of customer feedback to give you a realistic picture — not cherry-picked praise.
The positive response is strong and consistent. Buyers with oily lids repeatedly call this their holy grail liner. People mention specifically that it holds through hot summer days, sweaty gym sessions, and long work shifts without creasing or transferring to the upper lid. The 2-pack deal gets called out constantly as a smart buy — having a spare means you're not caught out when one runs down.
Pigmentation is frequently praised. Many buyers describe the color payoff as bold and true black, not muddy or faded-looking. Several reviewers who had previously only used higher-end liners were surprised by how well this competed. Buy Now
On the negative side, some buyers mention that removal is a bit of a process. Waterproof formulas don't just wipe off, and a few people with sensitive skin found that heavy-duty rubbing to remove it caused irritation. A proper oil-based remover solves this, but it's worth knowing upfront. A smaller group of reviewers with very oily lids also mentioned some fading toward the end of a long day — which is honest feedback, even if it's the exception rather than the rule.
One more thing people mention: the built-in sharpener is appreciated but not perfect. It does the job, but it's not as smooth as a high-quality standalone sharpener. For most people it's more than adequate, but it comes up enough in reviews to be worth noting.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $10–$16 for a 2-pack, this is one of the better value plays in the affordable waterproof eyeliner drugstore category. You're essentially paying $5–$8 per pencil for a formula that competes comfortably with options twice its price — and you get a backup pencil built into the deal, which is a practical bonus most people overlook until they run out.
If you're skeptical of drugstore liners because of past smudging experiences, this one is genuinely worth trying. The risk is low, and the upside — a reliable daily liner you don't have to think about — is high.
FAQ Section
Does Revlon ColorStay eyeliner actually stay waterproof all day?
For most people, yes. Once set, the formula resists water, sweat, and humidity well. People with very oily lids may see minor fading after 8+ hours, but using an eyeshadow primer underneath significantly extends wear time. Ophthalmologist-tested and safe for contact lens wearers.
How do I remove Revlon ColorStay waterproof eyeliner without irritating my eyes?
Use a micellar water, cleansing oil, or dedicated eye makeup remover. Soak a cotton pad, hold it against the liner for 10–15 seconds, then gently wipe. Don't rub dry — the waterproof formula won't respond to that and you'll just irritate your skin. Buy Now
Can I use Revlon ColorStay eyeliner on my waterline?
You can apply it to the waterline, but like most pencil liners, it won't stay there as long as it does on the lash line. The waterline is naturally moist, which breaks down even waterproof formulas faster. Touch up as needed if you want it on the waterline throughout the day.
What shade is 201 in the Revlon ColorStay line?
Shade 201 is a classic, rich matte black — the go-to for anyone who wants a clean, opaque line without shimmer or blue or brown undertones. It's as close to true black as you'll find in a drugstore pencil liner.
Is the Revlon ColorStay pencil liner good for beginners?
Yes — it's actually one of the more beginner-friendly options. The pencil format is easier to control than liquid liner, and the formula is forgiving enough to let you smudge and adjust before it fully sets. The built-in sharpener keeps the tip workable without needing extra tools.
Final Verdict
After testing and reviewing the full range of feedback, the Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner earns its reputation as a reliable, high-value drugstore staple — and this revlon colorstay pencil waterproof eyeliner review stands firmly behind that verdict. The smudge-proof formula genuinely delivers, the matte black pigmentation is bold and consistent, and the 2-pack with built-in sharpeners makes this one of the smarter value picks in the affordable waterproof eyeliner drugstore space. It's not perfect — very oily lids may need a primer assist, and removal requires a proper remover — but at this price, the tradeoffs are easy to accept. We'd give it a solid 4.4 out of 5 and recommend it without hesitation for everyday wear.
👉 Buy the Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner on Amazon
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