Ophthalmologist-tested However, a word of caution: the past isnt always golden. Despite kohls storied history, traditional formulas often contained lead, a toxic element. Even if a single kohl application might have a small amount of lead, regular use could accumulate harmful levels in our bodies. We asked a makeup artist to break it down. To make the application easier, use a Q-Tip to dry the waterline, then warm-up the product and apply it carefully. This product allows to create very subtle, smokey makeup look. Apply it along the waterline and then smudge it out with a brush e.g. 49SS. You must act quickly and decisively, because the kohl becomes extremely durable after it dries out. Luckily, Allure editors and professional makeup artists have done the tough testing for you. We gathered up the best eyeliner pencils in one convenient place, with picks from brands like MAC, Revlon, and Gucci, plus drugstore eyeliners that look and feel just as vibrant and smooth as the rest. Consider this your shopping guide for the most colorful, long-lasting, shimmery, and intensely pigmented formulas on the market. All are easy to use, most are easy to smudge, and none of them will play a disappearing act on you until they're ready to wipe off with some makeup remover before bed.