Revlon ColorStay Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil (202 Black Brown) Review: Reliable Drugstore Classic for Everyday Definition

Product Summary

The Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner, 202 Black Brown (0.01 oz) is a twist-up mechanical eyeliner pencil designed for long wear and everyday usability. It offers:

A waterproof, smudge-proof formula intended to last through humidity, tears, and long workdays.
A matte black‑brown shade that gives softer definition than pure black while still reading deep and intense.
A built‑in sharpener so you can maintain a precise tip without a separate tool.
A slim, retractable format that’s easy to toss in a makeup bag for touch‑ups.

On most retailers, including Amazon at this product link, it typically sits in the affordable drugstore range, around $7.65, making it accessible as an everyday staple rather than a prestige splurge.

Target Users

This eyeliner is best suited for:

Everyday makeup wearers who want quick, reliable definition without a steep learning curve.
People who prefer brown/black‑brown over black, especially fair to medium skin tones or anyone seeking a softer, more natural lash‑line look.
Those with normal to slightly oily lids who need decent longevity but don’t necessarily require heavy‑duty waterproofing for extreme conditions.
Budget‑conscious shoppers who still want a recognizable brand and consistent formula.
Beginner to intermediate users who are comfortable with pencil liners but may find liquids or gels too fussy.

It may be less ideal for very sensitive eyes that react to many formulas or for users who insist on a completely budge‑proof line on the waterline for many hours.

Main Benefits

1. Reliable Long‑Wearing Formula

The ColorStay line has built its reputation on staying power, and this pencil generally lives up to that promise on the upper lash line. When applied to primed lids or over shadow, the 202 Black Brown shade typically holds up through full workdays without major smudging.

2. Versatile Black‑Brown Shade

The Black Brown tone is deep enough to define the eyes clearly but softer and more forgiving than a stark jet black. This makes it well‑suited for:

Everyday office or school looks
Mature eyes that can look harsh with pure black
Subtle definition on lighter complexions

3. Built‑In Sharpener

Unlike many twist‑up pencils that quickly become blunt, this one includes a built‑in sharpener at the end of the pencil. You can twist up a small amount of product and refine the tip, which helps with:

Creating thinner lines at the lash base
Slight wings or extended outer corners
Tightlining close to the lashes (for those whose eyes tolerate pencil on the waterline)

4. Matte Finish

The formula sets to a matte finish, which is flattering for everyday wear and works well with both neutral and dramatic eye looks. It layers well over matte and shimmer shadows and doesn’t compete with other textures.

5. Accessible and Easy to Find

As a core Revlon product, this eyeliner is widely available in drugstores, big‑box retailers, and online. Replacement is simple, and you’re not tied to a niche brand or limited‑edition product.

Key Considerations

Before purchasing, keep these factors in mind:

Texture vs. Longevity Trade‑Off
The formula is on the firmer side compared with ultra‑creamy gel pencils. This can be a positive for longevity and smudge resistance, but those who prefer a super‑soft glide might find it slightly stiff, especially on the waterline.
Performance on the Waterline Varies
While marketed as waterproof, user experiences on the waterline are mixed. Some find it long‑wearing there; others note that it fades or disappears within an hour or two. If your main goal is waterline intensity all day, you might need a more specialized gel or kajal‑style liner.
Built‑In Sharpener Requires Gentle Use
The sharpener is convenient but made of lightweight plastic. Over‑twisting too much product or sharpening aggressively can cause breakage of the pencil tip, wasting product.
Waterproof, Not Fully Oil‑Proof
On very oily lids or in extremely hot, humid conditions, some users may experience minor transfer or fading, especially without primer.
Basic, No‑Frills Packaging
The packaging is functional and minimal. If you value a luxe feel or metal casing, this is firmly in the practical, drugstore category.

Pros

Long‑wearing on the upper lash line when properly set or used over shadow.
Waterproof and smudge‑resistant, suitable for everyday wear and light humidity.
Flattering black‑brown shade offers softer definition than black but is still deep and impactful.
Built‑in sharpener eliminates the need for a separate pencil sharpener.
Matte finish that works for both subtle and more dramatic looks.
Retractable design minimizes product waste from frequent full sharpening.
Widely available across multiple retailers, both in‑store and online.
Budget‑friendly price point (around $7.65 on Amazon), making it easy to repurchase.

Cons

Firmer texture than gel or kohl pencils; may tug slightly if used without warming or on very delicate skin.
Inconsistent waterline wear—some users see good longevity, others report quick fading.
Can smudge on very oily lids or in intense heat without primer or setting.
Built‑in sharpener is small and plastic, so it needs gentle handling to avoid breaking the tip.
Limited complexity of shade—this is a straightforward black‑brown without shimmer or special effects, which may be too basic for those who like more dimensional finishes.

Alternatives

If the Revlon ColorStay Waterproof Eyeliner in 202 Black Brown doesn’t fully match your needs, consider the following types of alternatives (always verify shade and formula before purchase):

Creamier Drugstore Gel Pencils
Look for retractable gel eyeliners that emphasize a softer glide while still being waterproof. These are often better choices for users with sensitive eyes who dislike firmer pencils.
High‑End Waterproof Gel Liners
Prestige brands offer long‑wearing gel pencils with rich pigment and smoother application, generally at a higher price point than $7.65, but with improved waterline performance and sensitivity‑friendly formulas.
Kajal or Kohl‑Style Liners for the Waterline
If your main goal is deep, intense color on the waterline that sets and stays, kajal‑inspired products may outperform firmer mechanical pencils like this one, though some may smudge more on the lower lash line.
Brown Liquid Liner Pens
For those who like a precise, crisp wing but in a brown or brown‑black tone, a liquid liner pen in a similar shade family can give a cleaner, more defined look than a pencil, at the cost of being less smudge‑able.

When choosing an alternative, consider what matters most: waterline performance, glide, price, or finish.

Conclusion

The Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner in 202 Black Brown remains a solid, well‑balanced choice in the drugstore category. It offers dependable wear on the upper lash line, a flattering deep brown‑black shade, and practical features like a built‑in sharpener and retractable format—all at an accessible price point of about $7.65 on Amazon.

It is particularly well‑suited to everyday users seeking a straightforward, no‑nonsense eyeliner that can handle a full day at work or school without major smudging. If you primarily line your upper lash line and appreciate a slightly firmer pencil for control and longevity, this product is likely to perform well for you.

However, if your top priority is ultra‑creamy glide or bulletproof waterline wear, you may want to pair this pencil with a more specialized liner or explore gel and kajal alternatives. Overall, for the cost and convenience, the Revlon ColorStay Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil in 202 Black Brown is a dependable staple that justifies its long‑standing reputation in everyday makeup bags.