Clinique Quickliner For Eyes Eyeliner Pencil delivers precise, water-resistant color in 11 stunning shades, making it ideal for sensitive eyes. Experience long-lasting, smudge-resistant wear from this trusted brand—perfect for effortless, flawless eye looks.
Table of Contents
Clinique Eyeliner Pencil Review: Is the Quickliner For Eyes the Ultimate Holy Grail for Sensitive Eyes?
When it comes to makeup staples, few items are as essential—or as frustrating—as the humble eyeliner. We all want that perfect balance: a formula that glides on without tugging, stays put through a rainy commute, and doesn’t irritate our eyes by lunchtime. If you have been hunting for a solution that bridges the gap between effortless application and high-end performance, you have likely come across the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil, specifically the Clinique Quickliner For Eyes.
For decades, Clinique has been the go-to brand for those with sensitive skin and eyes, promising fragrance-free, allergy-tested formulas. But does “safe” mean “boring”? Does this automatic pencil actually deliver the drama we want, or is it just a safe bet for contact lens wearers?
In this extensive review, we are going to deep-dive into everything you need to know about the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil. From its unique “swivel-up” design to its smudge-tip applicator, we will analyze the ingredients, the wear time, the shade range, and ultimately decide if it’s worth the premium price tag.
What is the Clinique Quickliner For Eyes?
The Clinique Quickliner For Eyes is an automatic eyeliner pencil designed for convenience and speed. Unlike traditional wooden pencils that require a sharpener (and the mess of shavings that comes with them), this Clinique Eyeliner Pencil features a twist-up mechanism that propels the product as needed.
It is marketed as a dual-purpose tool. On one end, you have the silky eyeliner formula; on the other, a built-in smudge tool designed to help you create a “smoky eye” look in seconds. The core promise is right there in the name: Quickliner. It’s meant for the busy professional, the on-the-go parent, or anyone who wants a defined eye without needing a steady hand of a surgeon or 20 minutes of blending time.
The Packaging
The product comes in a slim, color-coded barrel that matches the shade of the liner, which is a subtle but helpful design choice if you own multiple colors. The caps snap on securely—a crucial detail because air exposure is the enemy of creamy eyeliner formulas.
The Claims
Clinique makes several bold claims about this product:
- Transfer-Resistant: Once it sets, it stays.
- No Sharpening Needed: Always ready to use.
- Ophthalmologist Tested: Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
- Water-Resistant: Capable of withstanding humidity and light moisture.
But as any makeup enthusiast knows, marketing claims don’t always match reality. Let’s break down how the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil actually performs.
Formula and Texture: The “Glide” Factor
One of the most critical aspects of any eyeliner is the texture. The skin on our eyelids is the thinnest on our entire body. Dragging a hard, dry pencil across this delicate area isn’t just uncomfortable—it accelerates aging and causes sagging over time.
The Clinique Eyeliner Pencil excels in this category. The formula is incredibly creamy. It contains silicones and emollients that allow the pigment to slip across the lid without any skipping or tugging. This “glide factor” is a massive selling point for mature eyes or anyone with dry skin around the eye area.
The “Setting” Window
Unique to this formula is its “play time.” When you first apply the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil, the product remains emollient and blendable for roughly 60 seconds. This is your window of opportunity. During this minute, you can use the smudge tip to soften the line, smoke it out, or fix any mistakes.
After that 60-second window, the formula sets. It dries down to a finish that is much harder to budge. This two-phase performance—creamy at first, long-wearing later—is what separates a high-quality Clinique Eyeliner Pencil from cheaper drugstore alternatives that either never set (resulting in raccoon eyes) or dry too fast to blend.
Ingredient Deep Dive: Why It’s Safe for Sensitive Eyes
If you have ever experienced stinging, watering, or redness from an eyeliner, you know that ingredients matter. Clinique’s brand philosophy revolves around being 100% fragrance-free and allergy-tested.
Here is a look at what makes the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil distinctively gentle:
- Synthetic Beeswax: Instead of animal-derived waxes which can sometimes vary in quality or cause reactions, synthetic beeswax provides a consistent, stable base that helps the liner glide.
- Cyclopentasiloxane: This is a silicone fluid that gives the liner its silky feel and water-resistant properties. It evaporates after application, leaving the pigment fixed on the skin.
- Iron Oxides: These are safe, gentle pigments used to create rich black, brown, and grey tones without the need for harsh artificial dyes that often trigger allergies.
- No Parabens or Phthalates: The formula is clean, avoiding preservatives that are known endocrine disruptors or common irritants.
For contact lens wearers, the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil is often the “final frontier.” Many users report that this is the only liner they can wear on their waterline or tightline without fogging up their lenses or causing itchiness.
The Shade Range: Beyond Basic Black
While many automatic liners come in just Black and Brown, the Clinique Quickliner offers a sophisticated range of colors. These aren’t the neon brights of an Urban Decay collection; they are grounded, wearable neutrals designed to enhance natural eye color.
- Smoky Brown: A soft, warm brown that is less harsh than black. Perfect for blue or green eyes.
- Roast Coffee: A deeper, richer brown, ideal for brunettes who want definition without the severity of black.
- Slate: A stunning grey with blue undertones. This is a “sleeper hit” in the collection—it makes the whites of the eyes look brighter and pairs beautifully with silver hair.
- Black/Brown: The universal donor of eyeliners. It provides the depth of black with the warmth of brown.
- Blue Grey: A subtle way to wear color that looks professional but adds a spark to brown eyes.
The pigments in the standard Clinique Eyeliner Pencil are buildable. One swipe gives a soft definition; two or three swipes build up to a more opaque look. (Note: If you want extreme, tattoo-like pigment, you might look at the “Intense” version of this pencil, which we will compare later in this post).
The “Non-Retractable” Feature: A Critical Warning
We have to address the elephant in the room—and the number one complaint about this product. The Clinique Eyeliner Pencil does not retract.
The mechanism is designed to propel the lead out only. Once you twist it up, you cannot twist it back down.
Why did Clinique do this? It seems like a design flaw, but it is actually a preservation technique. Because the formula is so creamy and contains volatile ingredients that help it set, exposure to air dries it out quickly. By preventing the pencil from retracting, the airtight housing keeps the unexposed product fresh.
The User Beware: You must be incredibly gentle when twisting this pencil. The instructions recommend swiveling up only 1/8th of an inch (about the thickness of a coin). If you twist out half an inch to “see how much is left,” you will likely break the tip or be forced to cap it with the lead exposed, which will ruin the product. This learning curve can be frustrating for new users of the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil, but once you know the rule, it becomes second nature.
Detailed Pros and Cons
To give you a balanced view, let’s break down the strengths and weaknesses of the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil.
The Pros
- Effortless Application: No dragging, pulling, or skipping. It is one of the most comfortable pencils on the market.
- Built-in Smudger: The sponge tip is high quality—firm enough to move the product but soft enough not to scratch. It eliminates the need to carry a separate brush.
- Consistency: The color payoff is uniform from the first use to the last.
- Durability: Once set, it resists smudging from sweat or humidity effectively.
- Allergy Tested: A lifesaver for those with blepharitis, dry eye syndrome, or contact lenses.
- No Sharpening Waste: You use 100% of the product, unlike wooden pencils where you lose product in the sharpener.
The Cons
- The Retraction Issue: As mentioned, you cannot twist it down. This leads to accidental breakage for new users.
- Price: At over $20 (depending on retailer), it is an investment compared to drugstore brands.
- Rapid Usage: Because the formula is soft, you tend to use more product per application than with a hard pencil. Some users find it runs out faster than expected.
- Not for Precision Wings: The tip becomes rounded very quickly. Because you can’t sharpen it to a needle point, creating a razor-sharp “cat eye” wing is difficult with this specific tool. It is better suited for soft, smoky, or defined lines.
Comparison: Clinique Quickliner vs. The Competition
How does the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil stack up against other titans in the industry?
Clinique Quickliner vs. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Pencil
Urban Decay is the other heavyweight in creamy pencils.
- Texture: Both are incredibly creamy.
- Pigment: Urban Decay is generally more pigmented and comes in vibrant colors (neons, glitters). Clinique is more muted and sophisticated.
- Irritation: While Urban Decay is great, many users with extremely sensitive eyes find the Clinique formula causes less watering.
- Design: Urban Decay is a wooden pencil that needs sharpening. Clinique is an automatic twist-up. If you hate sharpening, Clinique wins.
Clinique Quickliner vs. Drugstore Automatics (e.g., Revlon ColorStay)
- Longevity: Drugstore liners have improved, but Clinique still holds the edge in how gracefully it fades. Drugstore liners often flake off in chunks; the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil tends to fade evenly.
- Smudger Tool: The sponge tip on the Clinique pencil is significantly better than the stiff, scratchy rubber tips often found on drugstore pencils.
- Ingredients: You are paying for the ophthalmologist testing and the assurance of quality ingredients with Clinique.
“Original” vs. “Intense”: Which Clinique Eyeliner Pencil is Right for You?
It is crucial to note that Clinique sells two versions of this pencil:
- Quickliner For Eyes (The Original)
- Quickliner For Eyes Intense
The Original (the subject of this review) provides a softer, more natural look. It is sheerer and buildable. It is perfect for day wear, the office, or a “no-makeup” makeup look.
The Intense version is liquid eyeliner in pencil form. It is deeply pigmented and opaque in one swipe. If you want high drama or have a deeper skin tone where the original might not show up as well, the “Intense” version is the better buy. However, the Original is often preferred by those who find highly pigmented liners too harsh or difficult to control.
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Tutorial
To get the most out of your Clinique Eyeliner Pencil, technique is key. Here are three ways to wear it.
Look 1: The “Invisible” Definition (Tightlining)
This technique makes your lashes look thicker without looking like you are wearing eyeliner.
- Gently lift your upper eyelid.
- Take the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil (in Black/Brown or Roast Coffee) and wiggle it between your eyelash roots from underneath.
- Do not draw a line above the lashes.
- The result? Naturally defined eyes that pop.
Look 2: The Soft Everyday Line
- Twist the pencil up just 1/8th of an inch.
- Close one eye and gently pull the outer corner taut (gently!).
- Draw short, dashing strokes along the upper lash line, connecting them as you go.
- Stop here for a clean look, or…
- Flip the pencil and use the smudge tool. Run it over the line you just drew to diffuse the edges. This creates a soft, romantic effect that is very forgiving of shaky hands.
Look 3: The 60-Second Smoky Eye
- Apply a generous line of the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil along the upper lash line.
- Apply a thinner line along the lower lash line.
- Immediately (before the 60 seconds are up) take the smudge tip and vigorously smudge the upper line upward onto the lid.
- Smudge the lower line gently.
- Apply mascara. You now have a sultry, smoky look using only one product.
Who is the Clinique Quickliner Best Suited For?
After extensive testing and research, we can categorize the ideal user for this product:
- The Contact Lens Wearer: If you struggle with cloudy lenses from flaking makeup, this transfer-resistant formula is a game changer.
- The Makeup Novice: If you can’t draw a straight line to save your life, the smudge tip on the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil is your best friend. It turns “messy” lines into “intentional smoky” lines.
- The Busy Professional: You need a liner that applies in 30 seconds and lasts for 10 hours.
- Mature Skin: If your eyelids have texture or fine lines, you need a formula that glides over them rather than catching. The silicones in this pencil make it perfect for mature eyes.
Real User Reviews and Feedback
Scanning the internet for feedback on the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil reveals a clear pattern.
The Love: Most 5-star reviews mention the word “easy.” Users love that they don’t have to carry a sharpener. Many have been loyal to the product for 10+ years, citing that it’s the only liner that doesn’t make their eyes itch during allergy season.
The Hate: The negative reviews almost exclusively focus on the packaging mechanics. “I twisted it up too much and it broke!” is a common refrain. Others feel that for the price, there isn’t enough product in the tube. It is true that automatic pencils generally contain less product by weight than wooden pencils, so you are paying a premium for the mechanism and the convenience.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem: The tip broke off.
- Solution: You twisted it up too far. Remember, the formula is soft. Only expose the tiniest amount needed to touch your skin.
Problem: The liner seems dry.
- Solution: Did the cap click? The cap must be pushed until you hear an audible snap. If it wasn’t sealed properly, the volatile silicones evaporated.
Problem: It smudges on my lower lid after 4 hours.
- Solution: While water-resistant, oils can break it down. If you have very oily skin, try lightly dusting a translucent powder under your eye before applying the liner to create a barrier.
Is It Worth the Price?
In a world where drugstore makeup is getting better and better, is a $20+ Clinique Eyeliner Pencil justifiable?
Yes, if:
- You have sensitive eyes. The cost of an eye infection or constant irritation isn’t worth saving $10.
- You value time. The “swivel and smudge” workflow is significantly faster than sharpening and blending with brushes.
- You want a natural, sophisticated look rather than a harsh, graphic line.
No, if:
- You want a razor-sharp, graphic winged liner (use a liquid liner for that).
- You are on a strict budget and don’t have sensitive eyes (there are cheaper alternatives that perform “okay”).
- You have a heavy hand and tend to press down hard (you will break this pencil).
Final Verdict
The Clinique Quickliner For Eyes is a classic for a reason. It doesn’t rely on flashy packaging or viral TikTok trends; it relies on consistent, comfortable performance. It is a workhorse product that lives in the makeup bags of women who want to look polished without spending an hour in front of the mirror.
While the non-retractable packaging is a quirk that requires a brief learning curve, the benefits of the formula outweigh this minor annoyance. The silky application, the forgiveness of the smudge tip, and the safety for sensitive eyes make the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil a top-tier contender in the crowded beauty market.
If you are looking for a liner that respects your skin, enhances your eyes naturally, and keeps up with your busy schedule, the Clinique Quickliner is absolutely worth the investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil waterproof? A: It is water-resistant, meaning it can withstand tears, sweat, and humidity. However, it is not fully waterproof like a swim-proof mascara. It removes easily with standard makeup remover.
Q: How long does one pencil last? A: With daily use, one pencil typically lasts between 1 to 2 months. Because it is a soft formula, it is used up slightly faster than hard wax pencils.
Q: Can I use this on my waterline? A: Yes, the Clinique Eyeliner Pencil is ophthalmologist tested and generally safe for the waterline. However, for the longest wear on the waterline, the “Intense” version is often recommended as it adheres slightly better to the wet mucosa.
Q: Does it come with a sharpener? A: No, and it doesn’t need one! The pencil is designed to be self-sharpening. As you use it, the friction against your skin maintains a usable tip. However, you will never get a needle-point sharp tip with this product.
Q: Which shade is best for hazel eyes? A: The shade “Smoky Brown” or “Intense Clove” works beautifully to bring out the green and gold flecks in hazel eyes.
Check out Clinique Quickliner For Eyes Eyeliner Pencil on Amazon.
See more Makeup product reviews here.
*As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
