The Best Kohl Eyeliners for a Seriously Smokey Eye

Emily Ratajkowski, Lady Gaga, Bella Hadid, Keira Knightley; these ladies sure do know how to nail the smokey eye trend. So, why is it whenever we give the classic look a go, it turns out smudged, messy and panda-like?

If you’re wanting to master the art of a sultry, smokey eye, then you need to have a kohl eyeliner in the mix. First used in ancient Egyptian makeup routines, the formula sits leagues above its powder, pencil and liquid counterparts as it boasts a super soft texture that’s easy to diffuse and smudge out. Translation? It’s going to give you the smokin’ hot smoulder that you long for, with minimal mess and minimal effort required.

In a bid to help you pull off the sultry eye look once and for all, we've listed 11 of the best kohl eyeliners that deliver on the smokey eye promise.

What's the difference between Kohl and Kajal eyeliner?

Kohl and kajal are often used interchangeably (and let’s be honest, they basically do the same job), but there are a few subtle differences in how they’re traditionally made and how they perform.

• Kajal originated in South Asia and was traditionally made with natural ingredients like soot and oils. Modern versions are creamy, super pigmented, and designed to be gentle—especially for the waterline and sensitive eyes. Think: smooth, smudgy, and easy to apply, even on the go.
  
• Kohl has roots in the Middle East and Egypt, and while it's also soft and blendable, it can vary more in texture. Some kohls are a bit firmer or drier, which makes them great for definition that lasts a little longer (especially when you're tightlining or creating sharper lines).
  

In short:

• Go for kajal if you want ultra-soft, rich colour that glides on easily.
  
• Reach for kohl if you want something a little more versatile—easy to smudge or sharpen up, depending on your mood.

Our editor's top Kohl eyeliner recommendations

How to Apply Kohl Eyeliner

Kohl eyeliner is one of those makeup staples that can totally change the game. Whether you're after a soft everyday look or something bold and dramatic, it's all about how you apply it. Here's your go-to guide for making kohl eyeliner work for any occasion.

1. Everyday Natural Definition

Want to subtly enhance your eyes without looking too “done”? Try tightlining. Gently lift your upper lid and run the kohl pencil along the upper waterline (just beneath your lashes). It gives the illusion of fuller lashes and naturally defined eyes—no obvious liner in sight.

Perfect for: Work, uni, everyday low-key glam.

2. Soft and Smokey

Kohl was made for a smokey eye. Draw a line close to your upper lashes, then smudge it out with a brush or fingertip. For extra impact, do the same on your lower lash line. Don’t worry about being too precise—this look is meant to be a bit undone.

Perfect for: Nights out, dates, or adding a bit of edge to your usual look.

3. Wing It Gently

If liquid liner feels intimidating, use your kohl pencil to create a soft wing. Start with small strokes from the outer corner, flicking upward, then blend out the edge slightly for a diffused, more forgiving finish. No ruler-straight lines required.

Perfect for: Soft glam or winged liner beginners.

4. Full-On Drama

Going for a bold eye moment? Line both the upper and lower waterlines (also known as waterlining) with your kohl pencil. Add a little liner just beneath the lower lashes too and blend it out for extra intensity. Pair with big lashes and you’re all set.

Perfect for: Big nights out or making a statement.

5. A Pop of Colour

Kohl doesn’t have to mean black. Swap it out for navy, plum, bronze or green to bring out your eye colour. Try lining just the lower lash line for a fun twist, or go bold with colour top and bottom.

Perfect for: Festivals, weekend looks, or when you want to mix things up.

Top Tip: Keep your pencil sharp for more precise lines, and if you’ve got oily lids, set your liner with a bit of matching eyeshadow to help it stay put all day.

Here's a TikTok tutorial using traditional Kohl to give you some inspiration...

How to Remove Kohl Eyeliner (Without Rubbing Your Eyes Raw)

Kohl eyeliner is dreamy for that bold, smudgy look—but when it’s time to take it off, you need a removal routine that actually works (and doesn’t leave you with panda eyes the next morning). Here’s how to do it properly:

1. Use an oil-based or dual-phase makeup remover

Kohl is super pigmented and often waterproof, so a regular face wash won’t cut it. Go for a gentle oil-based cleanser or a dual-phase remover (like micellar water with oil). These break down the makeup without irritating your eyes.

2. Soak, don’t scrub

Pour your remover onto a cotton pad, then press it gently onto your closed eye for 10–15 seconds. This gives the product time to break down the liner. Resist the urge to rub—it’s your eye area, not a kitchen counter.

3. Wipe gently

After letting it soak, swipe downwards and outwards in a smooth motion. If you’ve used kohl on your waterline, fold the pad or use a cotton bud to carefully reach those areas without poking your eye.

4. Double cleanse

Once the bulk of the eyeliner is gone, follow up with your usual face cleanser to get rid of any residue—especially if you're using an oil-based makeup remover.

5. Hydrate your eye area

After cleansing, apply an eye cream or gel to soothe and hydrate the skin. Kohl can be drying if you wear it often, so show your under-eyes a little love.

And there you have it—our fave kohl eyeliners that tick all the boxes: smooth, bold, long-lasting, and totally worth the hype. Whether you’re all about a soft flick, full-on smokey drama, or just want something that glides on like a dream, there’s a kohl here with your name on it. The best part? These picks work with your vibe, not against it. Ready to level up your liner game? Go forth and line boldly.