Kajal: A Complete Guide to Types, Features, and Top Picks

Kajal is a popular eye makeup product used to define and accentuate the eyes. Traditionally made from natural ingredients like soot and oils, it is available in various forms such as pencils, gel, and liquid. Known for its deep black color, kajal is applied to the waterline or along the lash line to create bold, dramatic looks or soft, subtle enhancements.

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It is widely used for its ability to make eyes appear larger, more defined, and expressive. Kajal is a staple in many beauty routines, especially in South Asia, and is also favored for its long-lasting, smudge-proof formulas, though it can sometimes cause irritation in sensitive eyes.

1. Renee Midnight Kohl Kajal Pencil

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The Renee Midnight Kohl Kajal Pencil is designed for creating bold, intense eye looks. Known for its rich black pigment, this kajal promises to deliver a deep, smudge-proof finish that lasts for hours. Enriched with natural ingredients, it glides smoothly on the waterline and lash line, making it ideal for a dramatic or classic look.

Key Features:

• Intense pigmentation: Provides a rich, black color that defines the eyes beautifully.
• Smudge-proof: Designed to stay in place throughout the day without smearing.
• Can be hard to remove: May require a strong makeup remover to wipe it off completely.
• Price: Relatively more expensive than some other kajals.

2. Colorbar Just Smoky Eye Kajal - Just Brown

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The Colorbar Just Smoky Eye Kajal in "Just Brown" is perfect for those who prefer softer, more natural looks. This kajal offers a rich brown hue that is less intense than classic black, making it a great choice for daytime or a smoky eye effect. The formulation is creamy and glides on smoothly for easy application.

Key Features:

• Smooth application: The creamy texture allows for an easy and comfortable glide.
• Long-lasting wear: Offers up to 12 hours of wear without smudging.
• Slight smudging: Although long-lasting, it may smudge slightly on oily eyelids without a primer.
• Not fully waterproof: Can fade slightly in humid conditions.

3. M.A.C Eye Kohl Pencil

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The M.A.C Eye Kohl Pencil is a cult favorite among makeup enthusiasts, offering rich, bold color that defines the eyes effortlessly. It is available in a wide variety of shades, from classic black to vibrant hues, making it suitable for both everyday wear and creative eye makeup. Its soft, creamy texture ensures smooth application without tugging.

Key Features:

• Rich pigmentation: Delivers a deep, intense color in just one swipe.
• Creamy formula: Glides on smoothly without any irritation or tugging on the delicate eye area.
• Can be expensive: Higher price point compared to other kajals on the market.
• May require frequent sharpening: Being a pencil, it needs to be sharpened, which can be inconvenient.

4. Soultree Ayurvedic Fern Green Kajal

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The Soultree Ayurvedic Fern Green Kajal is a unique, natural kajal that combines traditional Ayurvedic ingredients like ghee, almond oil, and camphor. This green-toned kajal not only defines the eyes but also nourishes and soothes them with its herbal formula. It’s perfect for those looking for a natural yet stylish alternative to the classic black kajal.

Key Features:

• Ayurvedic ingredients: Contains natural ingredients like ghee, almond oil, and camphor to nourish the eyes.
• Unique color: The fern green shade offers a softer, more subtle look than typical black or brown kajals.
• Not as long-lasting: It may require touch-ups throughout the day, especially for longer wear.
• Price: On the higher end compared to drugstore kajals.

Kajal is an essential makeup product that enhances the eyes, offering a range of bold to subtle looks. Whether you prefer a classic black for dramatic definition or a softer brown or green for a unique twist, there’s a kajal to suit every style. With varying formulas—from creamy and smooth to long-lasting and waterproof—kajal allows for both comfort and performance. It can be applied to the waterline or lash line to make the eyes appear larger, more defined, and expressive. Despite some variations in wear time and removal ease, kajal remains a must-have in any makeup routine

Disclaimer: At IDPL, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. IDPL may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article.