For those who appreciate the finer details in makeup, the search for the perfect eyeliner is an ongoing quest, akin to a foodie's pursuit of the ultimate brunch. This review delves into the performance of the Lancôme Drama Liqui-Pencil, specifically in the shade Noir Intense, comparing it with another popular option and offering insights into its wearability and application.
Initial Impressions and Comparison
Having acquired deluxe samples of two pencil eyeliners, the opportunity arose to test them thoroughly. While Asian eyeliners often hold a special place, exploring other brands is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the market. The eyeliners under scrutiny are the Lancôme Drama Liqui-Pencil (Noir Intense) and the Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Eye Pencil (Matte Black). Both promise long-wearing, pigmented results, a common benchmark for high-quality eyeliners.
However, for individuals with challenging eyelids, particularly those prone to oiliness or wateriness, achieving all-day wear can be a significant hurdle. Based on personal experience, neither of these liners fully met the expectation of remaining perfectly in place throughout a demanding workday. The Lancôme liner tended to flake, while the Make Up For Ever liner would settle into fine lines at the outer corners. After an 8-10 hour period, both showed signs of smudging on the lower outer corners of the eyes.
It's important to note that the Lancôme liner is a khôl eyeliner, a formula typically softer than others. Despite this, the application of the Lancôme liner was found to be excessively mushy, with chunks of product sometimes detaching during application. The Make Up For Ever liner offered a smoother glide, though it didn't quite live up to the "amazing" claims made by the brand.
Lancôme Drama Liqui-Pencil: Features and Benefits
The Lancôme Drama Liqui-Pencil boasts a unique hybrid gel formula that aims to combine the rich pigmentation of a liquid eyeliner with the user-friendliness of a pencil. Its key features and benefits include:
- 24H Wear: Designed for extended wear without fading or transferring.
- Waterproof: Formulated to withstand moisture.
- No Smudging, Flaking, Fading, or Transferring: Aims to maintain a pristine line throughout the day.
- Tested Under Ophthalmological Control: Suitable for use around the eyes.
- Suitable for Sensitive Eyes and Contact Lens Wearers: Formulated with gentleness in mind.
- Free of Fragrance, Parabens, Sulfates, and Phthalates: A cleaner formulation.
The application instructions suggest applying the eyeliner as close to the lashes as possible for a tight line, or gradually building it out for a dramatic cat-eye or smoky look. The tip can also be used to fill in gaps between lashes for a fuller lash line appearance.
Performance and Wearability
The Lancôme Drama Liqui-Pencil is lauded for its high intensity color, delivering the impact of a liquid liner with the ease of a pencil. The creamy texture allows for smooth application, though users are advised to work quickly if a smudged effect is desired. Caution is also recommended during sharpening due to the pencil's soft nature.
In a particularly demanding scenario, such as a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class involving rope climbing, the Lancôme Drama Liqui-Pencil (in shades Ponts Des Arts and Aubergine) demonstrated remarkable staying power. Despite intense physical activity and sweat, the eyeliner remained largely intact. While a magnifying mirror revealed slight lifting in some areas upon closer inspection, the overall appearance was still good, with no smudging along the lower lash lines or outer corners.
The pencil liners are described as being super soft and gliding like a gel liner, offering a nice, silky slip during application. The intensity of a liquid liner is combined with the ease of a pencil, leading to the playful suggestion that they could be called "No Drama" Liqui-Pencils.
Although not officially classified as waterproof, the formula is described as extremely sturdy. The wear test in a sweaty gym environment confirmed its resilience. The available shades offer a range of finishes, including matte and metallic, prompting an eagerness to explore more of the color selection.
Limitations and Specific Use Cases
A crucial point to consider is that these liners are not recommended for use along the waterline. While application is possible, they do not perform well in this area and do not last.
The verdict on the Lancôme Drama Liqui-Pencil is overwhelmingly positive for its performance as a standard eyeliner. It is praised for its exceptional pigmentation and forgiving application, making it suitable for those with limited time. The product is noted for its precision and all-day wear, resisting smudging and migration. Even when swatched, it proved difficult to remove, requiring both makeup remover and cleanser, which assures users of its longevity.
Furthermore, the eyeliner is described as sweat-proof, ensuring it stays in place during physical activities like dancing or exercising. Even accidental rubbing of the eyes does not compromise its hold.
Application Tips
To achieve the best results with the Lancôme Drama Liqui-Pencil:
- Apply as close to the lash line as possible for a defined look.
- Gradually build thickness for a more dramatic cat-eye or smoky effect.
- Use the pencil tip to fill in any gaps between lashes to enhance the appearance of a fuller lash line.
- Work quickly if a smudged effect is desired, as the formula sets relatively fast.
- Exercise caution when sharpening the soft pencil.
- Avoid using the liner on the waterline, as it is not designed for this area and will not last.