Hey beauty lovers! Today I’m diving DEEP into one of the most talked-about gel eyeliners on the market. After analyzing hundreds of customer experiences and putting this product through its paces, I’m here to give you the unfiltered truth about Maybelline’s Eyestudio Lasting Drama Gel Eye Liner in Blackest Black.
First Impressions
Opening the small glass pot, you might think “That’s it?” Don’t let the compact size fool you – this little jar packs a serious punch! The product comes with a small brush for application (which we’ll discuss later because…opinions vary 😏). The gel itself has a smooth, creamy consistency that’s neither too wet nor too dry. It truly lives up to its “Blackest Black” name – we’re talking INTENSE pigmentation that makes your eyes pop immediately.
Application Experience
Texture and Feel
The gel formula is incredibly smooth and glides effortlessly onto the skin. Unlike liquid liners that can feel wet and tacky, or pencils that can tug at your delicate eye area, this gel strikes a perfect balance. It’s creamy enough to apply without dragging but sets quickly enough that you won’t end up with it transferring everywhere.
One user perfectly summed it up: “It has a nice dark color, dried quickly, doesn’t smudge, goes on smoothly.” This is exactly what you want in a gel liner!
The Included Brush
Here’s where opinions dramatically split. Some users love the included applicator brush, while others… not so much.
Pros of the brush:
- Perfect for creating thick, dramatic lines
- Good control for beginners
- Angled design (in newer versions) helps with wing creation
Cons of the brush:
- Many received bent/damaged brushes in shipping
- Some find it too stiff and “prickly” on eyelids
- Can be difficult to create super-thin lines
Personal take? The brush is adequate for basic application, but if you’re looking for precision work or super-fine lines, you might want to invest in a separate eyeliner brush. Many users recommend an angled brush for better control.
As one reviewer mentioned: “The brush that comes with the kit is very nice, but the eyeliner gel is not thick enough. You will make a pass on your eyes and then need to repeat several times to achieve a dark clean line.” This seems to be a common experience for many users.
Performance: The Make-or-Break Factors
Staying Power
This is where this eyeliner TRULY shines for most users! The vast majority report exceptional staying power:
“I cry constantly and it never takes more than wiping a slight line away with a q tip, my wings don’t fly away from tears anymore.”
“I wear contacts and was stunned when I saw my eyeliner was perfect and still on my face by the end of the day.”
“It stayed on through my swim meet!! I had goggles over it, but I did test it by going underwater (goggles off) and there was no run lines after.”
However, there’s an important caveat: users with extremely oily eyelids sometimes experience smudging. Several reviewers mention that using an eyeshadow primer first dramatically improves the staying power. Without primer, some people experience the dreaded “raccoon eyes” effect after several hours.
Smudge Resistance
Once fully dry (which takes about 2-3 minutes), most users find this liner to be remarkably smudge-resistant. However, it’s crucial to let it dry completely! If you open your eyes too soon after application, you might get transfer onto your upper lid.
One user shared a great tip: “Apply your eyeliner, then take a flat brush and dry compact powder. Dab the brush just below the eyeliner and then blend when applied. I don’t know why it works, but it keeps this makeup from smudging almost every time.”
Waterproof Claims
Does it live up to its waterproof promise? For the most part, YES! Many users confirmed it withstands tears, rain, and even swimming (with some minor fading). However, it’s important to note it’s not 100% waterproof – more like water-resistant. Extended exposure to water will eventually cause some fading.
Pigmentation
The color payoff is consistently rated as excellent. It’s a TRUE black – not dark gray or faded-looking like some competitors. As one reviewer enthusiastically stated: “The pigment of this liner was unmatched from the other liners I have used in the past. ‘Blackest Black’ is an accurate description of the pigment of this liner.”
Long-Term Use
Longevity of Product
Here’s some AMAZING value for your money – this tiny pot lasts FOREVER! Multiple reviewers mentioned using the same pot for 6-12 months with regular use before it dried out.
“I’ve had this eyeliner for about a year and my only issue with it is it’s started to dry out recently but you just need to add more product to the brush you’re using and it works equally as good!”
Drying Out Issues
The most common complaint about long-term use is that the gel eventually dries out. However, there’s a simple solution: ALWAYS cap the lid tightly after use. Some users even store it upside down to prevent air exposure.
A pro tip from one reviewer: “To keep the butter feel to your liner, always cap the lid!”
Removal Process
While the staying power is a huge plus, it does mean removal requires some effort. Regular face wash usually won’t cut it.
“It is hard to get fully off so invest in a good makeup remover!!”
Most users recommend oil-based makeup removers or micellar water specifically designed for waterproof makeup. Some even suggest using petroleum jelly to break down the product effectively.
Versatility
This gel eyeliner isn’t just for creating traditional eyeliner looks. Users report successfully using it for:
- Tight-lining the waterline
- Creating smoky eye effects
- Filling in eyebrows (especially the brown shade)
- Making precise, dramatic wings
- As an emergency mascara in a pinch
Comparison to High-End Alternatives
Many reviewers specifically compared this to more expensive brands like MAC Fluidline, Bobbi Brown, and Stila – and Maybelline frequently comes out on top!
“I love this eye liner…I’ve tried several different types of gel eye liner and defiantly Maybelline is the only one that really does the job.”
“After using this eyeliner, I won’t be going back to my high-end one. It applies much better, doesn’t dry up in the pot, and wears all day without smudging.”
“For under $10, this is seriously some quality product. I’ve used a handful of gel eyeliners from other drugstore brands as well as high end ones, and I can confidently say that this is worth your money and time.”
Who Should Use This Product?
Great for:
- People seeking long-lasting, intensely black eyeliner
- Those wanting to create dramatic wing effects
- Makeup users on a budget
- Anyone who needs smudge-resistant wear
- People with sensitive eyes (most reviewers with sensitive eyes reported no irritation)
Maybe skip if:
- You have extremely oily eyelids (without primer)
- You prefer ultra-thin, super-precise lines
- You need something that removes easily with just water
- You tend to apply makeup in a rush (remember, it needs drying time!)
The Bottom Line: Is It Worth Your Money?
ABSOLUTELY! For around $10, this gel eyeliner outperforms many products twice or even three times its price. The longevity of both wear time and product lifespan makes it an exceptional value.
The color is intense, application is forgiving (especially for gel liner beginners), and it withstands tears, sweat, and light water exposure admirably. While the included brush might not be for everyone, the product itself is fantastic.
As one long-time user summed it up: “I’ve been using this product for years when I saw a co-worker wearing it and I asked her…must be 15 years!”
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Let it dry completely (2-3 minutes) before fully opening eyes to prevent transfer
- Use an eyeshadow primer if you have oily lids
- Set with black eyeshadow for maximum staying power
- Clean the brush after EACH use to prevent caking
- Tightly cap the jar immediately after use to prevent drying
- Consider purchasing a separate fine angle brush for precision work
- Use oil-based makeup remover for thorough removal
Final Thoughts
Maybelline’s Eyestudio Lasting Drama Gel Eye Liner in Blackest Black proves that you don’t need to splurge on high-end makeup to get professional-quality results. With its intense pigmentation, smooth application, and impressive longevity, it’s earned its place as a holy grail product for makeup enthusiasts at all skill levels.
Whether you’re a makeup newbie or a seasoned pro, this affordable gem deserves a spot in your makeup collection. Just be sure to cap it tight and keep that brush clean! 😉
Give it a try – your wings will thank you! ✨
Buy on Amazon: Here
