Smashbox Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil | Self-Sharpening Cap, Waterproof + High Pigment
- Get intense, precise eye definition with Smashbox Always Sharp Kohl Eyeliner. Its self-sharpening cap keeps a flawless tip, while waterproof, high-pigment formula ensures longwear, resisting flaking.
- Twist the secure self-sharpening cap for an instant precise tip every time—no dull points. Glide the creamy, color-rich, waterproof kohl across your waterline for bold, all-day eye impact.
- Smashbox Always Sharp delivers on its promise of precise, long-lasting color but shows variability in its sharpening mechanism.
- Most users enjoy the waterproof, smudge-resistant formula and rich pigment for all-day wear.
- Key complaints center on the self-sharpening cap malfunctioning, causing tip breakage or wasted product.
- Isolated reports of dried-out or counterfeit units exist, but these appear infrequent and often resolved by customer service or returns.
- The pencil features an innovative self-sharpening cap that twists to maintain a precise tip.
- Formulated for waterproof, non-flaking wear with hyper-pigmented kohl.
Product Overview
The Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil is engineered as a twist-and-sharpen design that keeps your eye lines crisp without an external sharpener. Packaged in a sleek metallic barrel, this pencil boasts a self-sharpening cap mechanism: simply twist the cap until you hear a click, and a flawless, ultra-fine point emerges. The creamy kohl formula glides on smoothly, delivering intense color payoff that resists water, sweat, and accidental smudging. With a recommended removal using oil-based cleansers or warm water, the formula holds up on both lash lines and waterlines, making it a versatile tool for creating subtle definition or dramatic looks.
- Users consistently praise the longwearing performance on waterlines and hooded eyelids.
- Quality is high but price and mechanical failures spark mixed sentiments.
Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil Review: Honest Findings
In real-world testing and aggregated user feedback, this pencil scores highly for its ability to stay put from morning coffee through evening events. Many reviewers mention that the liner remains fresh and bold on deep-set or hooded eyes, where other formulas tend to crease or fade. However, the premium price point—often around $20 per pencil—raises expectations that every unit will perform flawlessly. While the majority of customers report satisfaction with the hyper-pigmented glide and waterproof hold, a notable subset experience difficulty with the sharpening function, prompting frustration and occasional product waste. Overall, this pencil stands out for its vibrant color shades and staying power but earns a cautionary note regarding its mechanical consistency.
- Excellent color payoff and shade variety, with Violeta, Raven, Brown, Navy Blue, Green highly rated.
- Long-lasting, smudge-resistant formula that stays on all day, removing only with oil-based removers.
Positive Feedback & Highlights
Thousands of beauty enthusiasts rave about this pencil as their “go-to eyeliner.” Common praises include the incredible pigmentation that delivers bold, even strokes in a single pass. Fans appreciate the wide shade selection—Violeta for a vibrant purple pop, Raven for a deep jet-black, and Navy Blue or Green for subtle color accents. Reviewers frequently note that the liner stays locked in place, surviving humid conditions, workouts, and tears without flaking. Many also highlight that sensitive eyes experience no irritation, and that the pencil’s twist-and-sharpen feature eliminates the mess of traditional sharpeners and shavings. Overall, the positives center on comfort, reliability, and a polished finish that maintains its initial intensity.
- Persistent issues with the self-sharpening mechanism causing breakage and waste.
- Occasional reports of dry, faulty, or fake products circulating on Amazon.
Negative Reviews & Rumor Analysis
Self-Sharpening Breakdown
A significant minority of users describe the sharpening mechanism as fragile or poorly calibrated. Complaints often mention the tip breaking off inside the cap, leaving unusable fragments and reducing the amount of liner available. Some customers report hearing a click prematurely or not at all, causing over-twisting or under-releasing of product. These breakdowns can make the pencil feel wasteful—losing up to half of the pencil’s core to mechanical failures. While Smashbox customer support frequently issues replacements, the inconsistency dampens confidence for repeat purchases among certain buyers.
Counterfeit and Dry Units
A handful of reviews allege receiving counterfeit or dried-out pencils that fail to sharpen or apply smoothly. In rare cases, the formula appears hardened, cracking on contact, or the wrong color shade arrives—leading some to question authenticity. Amazon’s marketplace environment can increase the risk of third-party sellers distributing inauthentic stock. However, most users agree that purchasing directly through authorized Smashbox channels or reputable retailers minimizes this risk. When defective products do slip through, customers generally report successful refunds or replacements under Amazon’s A-to-z Guarantee.
- Ideal for professionals or enthusiasts needing precise, waterproof eyeliner that lasts hours.
- Less suited for those wary of mechanical inconsistencies or preferring simpler twist-up pencils without sharpening.
Who Should Consider Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil?
Makeup artists and beauty aficionados who require exacting lines and waterproof endurance will find this pencil valuable. Its ability to define the waterline or lash line with no dragging or tugging makes it a go-to for editorial looks and everyday wear alike. However, if you prefer a straightforward twist-up pencil or have had recurring issues with consumer-grade sharpening caps, you might opt for a conventional mechanical or retractable eyeliner. Those on a tight budget may also balk at the premium price tag and potential for manufacturing variance.
- Despite occasional mechanical glitches, the eyeliner delivers on its core promises of pigment and waterproof wear.
- Consider ordering directly or buying from authorized retailers to minimize counterfeit risks.
Conclusion: Final Verdict
The Smashbox Always Sharp Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil remains a standout for its rich color, all-day hold, and ingenious twist-and-sharpen design. While most users enjoy a flawless sharpening experience, a minority encounter breakage in the cap or receive dried-out/fake units. Balancing its vibrant, smudge-proof performance against a few mechanical drawbacks, the pencil earns recommendation—especially for those prioritizing precision and waterproof longevity. To mitigate potential issues, purchase from verified sellers and inspect the sharpening cap on arrival; proactive returns or exchanges can address rare defects. Ultimately, this pencil offers an elevated eyeliner experience for those willing to pay a premium and manage occasional sharpening hiccups.
Smashbox Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil | Self-Sharpening Cap, Waterproof + High Pigment
- Get intense, precise eye definition with Smashbox Always Sharp Kohl Eyeliner. Its self-sharpening cap keeps a flawless tip, while waterproof, high-pigment formula ensures longwear, resisting flaking.
- Twist the secure self-sharpening cap for an instant precise tip every time—no dull points. Glide the creamy, color-rich, waterproof kohl across your waterline for bold, all-day eye impact.
Comments