Hey there, makeup lovers! Today I’m breaking down the Maybelline New York Define-A-Line Eyeliner in Ebony Black. I’ve spent YEARS testing different eyeliners, and this one’s a staple that keeps showing up in makeup bags everywhere. But is it worth the hype? Let’s get into it!
First Impressions
This eyeliner comes in that classic green and black Maybelline packaging we all recognize. The design is pretty straightforward – a twist-up pencil (no sharpener needed!), with a smudger sponge on one end and even a little built-in sharpener on the cap. Gotta love the convenience factor here!
The Ebony Black shade is SUPER dark – we’re talking intense, rich black that makes your eyes pop immediately. The texture feels creamy and soft to the touch, which hints at how it’ll apply.
Application Experience
Okay, so this is where this eyeliner REALLY shines for most users. The creamy texture means it glides on like butter – no tugging or pulling on your delicate eyelids! This is HUGE if you hate the feeling of dragging harsh pencils across your eye area.
The tip is just the right size for creating defined lines, but you can also use the built-in smudger if you want a smokier, lived-in look. Many users mentioned they use this for creating wings, which it does well for a pencil liner.
Something that makes this eyeliner stand out is how easy it is to use on your waterline. If you’ve ever struggled with getting eyeliner to actually stay on your waterline, many reviewers swear this is THE ONE that works. One longtime user with alopecia (no eyelashes) and constantly watery eyes claims this is the only liner that stays put through 17-hour bartending shifts!
Staying Power – The Big Question
Here’s where opinions start to split. Some users report this eyeliner stays all day without issues, while others say it smudges like crazy. So what’s going on?
From analyzing the reviews, it seems the staying power depends a lot on:
- Your skin type (oily eyelids = more smudging)
- Whether you use primer (many recommend this step!)
- Your lifestyle (active day? prepare for touch-ups)
- Your eye shape and habits (do you touch your eyes often?)
The eyeliner is definitely NOT waterproof – multiple reviewers point this out. If you cry, sweat a lot, or plan to go swimming, expect it to run. Several users mentioned looking like “raccoons” by the end of the day or finding smudges in the corners of their eyes.
However, other long-term users say they’ve worn it for 5+ years with minimal smudging issues. One reviewer who’s been using it since they were 13 (now 28) swears by its staying power.
The Smudge Factor – Good or Bad?
The smudginess of this product is either its biggest flaw or its best feature, depending on what you’re looking for!
If you want a precise line that STAYS precise all day – this might not be your best bet. Several reviewers complained that they couldn’t even blink without the liner transferring to their under-eye area.
BUT if you’re going for that lived-in, slightly smoky look? The natural smudging might actually work in your favor! The built-in smudger makes it easy to create this effect intentionally, and many users love this aspect.
One reviewer called it “perfect for a smudgy look because it’s going to smudge anyway” – pretty honest assessment right there!
Value for Money
At under $5 in most places (sometimes even cheaper on Amazon), this eyeliner is definitely budget-friendly. Many users specifically mentioned they keep coming back to this product despite trying high-end alternatives from brands like MAC, Tarte, and Anastasia because the quality is comparable or better for a fraction of the price.
The amount of product you get seems decent too – while a few people mentioned it doesn’t last as long as they’d like, most seem satisfied with how long each pencil lasts before needing replacement.
Removal Process
Here’s a major plus! Even users who didn’t love the staying power appreciated how easy this eyeliner is to remove. No need for expensive makeup removers – several people mentioned it comes off easily with:
- Regular face wash
- Makeup remover wipes
- Petroleum jelly
- Just a washcloth
This makes it beginner-friendly and great for those nights when you just want to wash your face and crash without a 10-step removal process.
Who This Eyeliner Works Best For
Based on the reviews, this eyeliner seems to be a perfect match for:
- Makeup beginners (forgiving to apply, easy to remove)
- People who want a softer, smokier look (not harsh lines)
- Those who prefer pencil over liquid liners
- Sensitive eyes (multiple people mentioned it doesn’t irritate)
- Anyone who likes to line their waterline
- Budget-conscious makeup users
- People who don’t mind occasional touch-ups
Who Should Probably Skip It
You might want to look elsewhere if you:
- Have very oily eyelids
- Need something truly waterproof
- Want a super precise line that stays put ALL day
- Prefer extremely long-wearing makeup
- Touch your eyes frequently throughout the day
Tips for Making It Work Better
Several long-term users shared these tips for getting the most out of this eyeliner:
- Apply primer before use (crucial for oily lids!)
- Set it with a matching eyeshadow for longer wear
- Use it as a base under liquid liner for extra definition
- Let it set for a moment before blinking
- Carry it with you for quick touch-ups if needed
- Store it properly (some reviews mentioned it can get too soft if left in heat)
The Verdict
Maybelline New York Define-A-Line Eyeliner in Ebony Black is one of those products that’s been around forever for a reason. It’s not perfect, but it offers excellent value and versatility for the price.
If you’re expecting it to perform like a high-end, waterproof, 24-hour wear product, you’ll be disappointed. But if you approach it as an affordable, comfortable-to-apply liner that gives a nice effect and is easy to work with, you’ll probably be pretty happy with it!
Many reviewers have been loyal to this product for YEARS (some for 5-10+ years!), which says something about its staying power in the market, even if the formula itself isn’t the longest-wearing.
Pros:
- Creamy, smooth application
- No sharpener needed (twist-up design)
- Built-in smudger for versatile looks
- Works well on waterline
- Very rich, dark black color
- Affordable price point
- Easy to remove
- Gentle on sensitive eyes
- Convenient packaging
Cons:
- Can smudge throughout the day
- Not waterproof
- May require touch-ups
- Can transfer to under-eye area
- Not ideal for very precise, stay-put lines
- Formula might be too soft for some preferences
Final Thoughts
This eyeliner has maintained its popularity for decades, which speaks volumes. It’s not the most technologically advanced or longest-wearing option out there, but it delivers on ease of use, comfort, and that rich black color that makes eyes pop.
If you’re looking for a workhorse everyday liner that won’t break the bank and gives you that perfect balance of definition and softness, this might become your new go-to. Just keep a compact mirror handy for occasional smudge checks throughout the day!
Have you tried this eyeliner? What was YOUR experience with it? I’d love to know if you’re team “holy grail” or team “raccoon eyes” with this one! 
Buy on Amazon: Here
