Maybelline Master Precise Skinny Gel Pencil Review

Maybelline Master Precise Skinny Gel Pencil ($7.99 at drugstores) is a new eyeliner that has a micro-tip for sharp precision. I've been eyeing the Hourglass 1.5mm Gel Eyeliner ($16) for a while now, because when you have hooded eyes like I do, a skinny line takes up a lot less of that precious eyelid space. I've tried a lot of skinny liquid liners, but the idea of a skinny automatic gel pencil is even better, especially for everyday use. So I was really glad to see Maybelline come out with a 1.8mm version for half the price of the Hourglass one. Let's take a look! 

Master Precise Skinny Gel Liner comes in three shades...Defining Black, Refined Charcoal, and Sharp Brown. It claims to be a waterproof gel formula with a 1.8mm tip (slightly larger than the Hourglass one) that gives mistake-proof application, an ultra-smooth glide, and up to 24 hour wear.

When I opened the package for the first time and took off the cap, I was a bit confused because the packaging shows a pointed tip but it's actually flat. The flat tip actually works out great for lining inside my waterline...it glides across easily and covers more area that a sharp point would...a definite plus! I also don't feel like I'm going to poke my eye out...it's very comfortable to use in that way.

But up on the eyelids, it's a different story, as it doesn't have the same glide that it does inside the waterline. It's not dry by any means, but it did feel like it was skipping a bit and I had to use a bit more pressure. The problem is, when you apply more pressure, the skinny micro-tip breaks off easily. Also, this pencil is not retractable, so once you twist it up, it doesn't go back down. Thankfully, it twists up very slowly so you won't go too far accidentally.

Here it is compared to one of my Julep Gel Eye Gliders, which is an average-sized retractable gel pencil, similar to others you'll see from L'oreal and Maybelline. This gives you a good frame of reference for how skinny the Maybelline pencil is.

Here's what the lines look like in comparison...as you can see, the Maybelline one is much skinnier and it goes on a nice deep black. The lasting power is really good, which is likely due to it's drier formula. I actually don't mind a slightly drier pencil if it means that it lasts longer, so it definitely has that going in it's favor. Some of the softer formulas feel nice going on but end up smudging all over the place a few hours later.

Overall, I'm a little torn with this one. I like that it's long lasting and the flat micro-tip is perfect for lining the waterline. But when it comes to the upper lash line, I would much prefer a pointed tip, especially since I like to wing my liner out at the corners a bit. I find it really challenging to create a nice pointed wing with the flat top. Not to mention, it becomes extremely fragile if you apply more pressure to it. 

If you love to line your waterline, I think you'll really enjoy this one, but otherwise, you may want to skip it (or maybe spring for the Hourglass version). 

You can find Maybelline Master Precise Skinny Gel Eyeliner at drugstores and at Ulta.com