Black kajal has been a staple in Indian makeup bags for generations. It is versatile, easy to apply, and works with everything from traditional outfits to everyday Western wear. But if you want to refresh your usual makeup routine, coloured kajal is a simple way to experiment with something different.
From soft brown and deep navy to forest green, teal, and plum, coloured kajals can add definition and personality to your eyes without requiring a complicated makeup routine.
The best part? You do not need to create a dramatic eye look every day. A thin line of brown kajal can give you a subtle finish, while navy or green can add a little colour to a simple outfit.
In this guide, we will explore the best coloured kajals for everyday makeup in India, popular product options, shade-selection tips for Indian skin tones, and easy ways to wear coloured kajal to work, college, and casual outings.
Why Try Coloured Kajal for Everyday Makeup?
Coloured kajal offers an easy alternative to traditional black. Depending on the shade and how you apply it, you can create anything from a barely-there definition to a soft, colourful eye look.
Here are a few reasons to try it:
- Easy to use: A pencil can be applied directly along the lash line without needing elaborate techniques.
- Versatile shades: Choose neutral browns for subtle definition or brighter colours for a playful look.
- Suitable for different occasions: A soft brown or navy line can work for everyday wear, while metallic teal or green can add extra impact.
- Complements Indian outfits: Coloured kajal can coordinate with kurtas, sarees, salwar suits, and Western outfits.
- Quick makeup upgrade: You can add colour while keeping the rest of your makeup simple.
You do not have to stop using black kajal. Instead, think of coloured kajal as another option for days when you want to change your look.
Best Coloured Kajals for Everyday Makeup
The following products and shade ranges are worth exploring when shopping for coloured kajal in India. Shade availability, formulations, and prices can change, so check the current product listing before ordering.
1. Lakmé 9 to 5 Eyeconic Kajal — Best for Shade Variety
Lakmé’s 9 to 5 Eyeconic Kajal range includes coloured options such as Classic Brown, Forest Green, Turquoise, Regal Green, Royal Blue, and Midnight Blue, alongside traditional shades. The official product listing describes a twist-up kajal format. Availability can vary by shade.
Why consider it:
- Several colours to explore within one range.
- Brown for a subtle everyday look.
- Blue and green options for a more noticeable finish.
- A twist-up pencil format for convenient application.
Best for: Beginners who want to experiment with different shades without changing brands.
Everyday shade to try: Classic Brown or Midnight Blue.
2. Kay Beauty 24HR Coloured Matte Kajal — Best for Matte Colour
Kay Beauty’s 24HR Coloured Matte Kajal range includes shades such as Brown, Blue, Green, and Teal. The product is listed by Nykaa, where shoppers can check current shade availability and customer reviews.
Why consider it:
- Coloured matte options.
- A choice of neutral and more expressive shades.
- Can be used to create a simple lash-line look or a softly blended effect.
- Useful for anyone who wants to move beyond black kajal.
Best for: People looking for coloured matte kajal options for everyday and occasional makeup.
Everyday shade to try: Brown for subtle definition or Teal for a small pop of colour.
3. Plum Coloured Kajal — Best for Green and Jewel-Toned Looks
Plum has featured coloured kajal options, including Gemstone Green, in its makeup range. Check the current listing to confirm the product, shade, and availability before buying.
Why consider it:
- Green can add colour without requiring a full eyeshadow look.
- Jewel-toned shades can complement neutral outfits.
- A coloured pencil can be used for a thin line or a softly blended finish.
Best for: Makeup lovers who want to experiment with green and other colourful eye looks.
Everyday shade to try: A deep green rather than an extremely bright shade for a more understated finish.
4. L.A. Girl Glide Gel Liner — Best for Colourful Eye Looks
L.A. Girl Glide Gel Liner is a coloured pencil-style liner option worth exploring if you want shades beyond the usual black and brown. Its available colours can vary between retailers.
Why consider it:
- A pencil format for creating defined lines.
- Coloured options for experimenting with different looks.
- Can be used along the upper lash line for a more controlled application.
Best for: People who enjoy coloured eye makeup and want to explore shades beyond traditional kajal colours.
Everyday shade to try: A muted blue or brown, depending on the current shade range.
Note: This is a gel liner rather than necessarily a traditional waterline kajal. Check the label to confirm whether the specific product is suitable for use near the waterline.
5. SUGAR Cosmetics Kohl of Honour — Best for a Traditional Kohl Option
SUGAR Cosmetics offers kohl products for everyday eye definition. If you want a coloured shade, check the brand’s current catalogue rather than assuming every version is available in multiple colours.
Why consider it:
- A brand to explore if you prefer a traditional kohl format.
- Useful for comparing application style and finish with coloured pencil liners.
- Offers another option when building an everyday eye makeup kit.
Best for: Shoppers comparing everyday kohl options alongside coloured kajals.
Everyday shade to try: Choose brown or another muted shade if it is available in the specific product range.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Shade Direction | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Lakmé 9 to 5 Eyeconic Kajal | Brown, green, turquoise, blue | Shade variety |
| Kay Beauty 24HR Coloured Matte Kajal | Brown, blue, green, teal | Matte coloured looks |
| Plum coloured kajal options | Green and other available shades | Jewel-toned looks |
| L.A. Girl Glide Gel Liner | Multiple colours, depending on stock | Defined coloured liner looks |
| SUGAR Cosmetics kohl options | Check current shade range | Traditional kohl-style makeup |
Our recommendation: If you are new to coloured kajal, begin with brown. If you already use black kajal daily, try navy blue or deep green for a noticeable change that can still look understated.
Which Coloured Kajal Shades Are Best for Everyday Use?
You do not need to choose a shade based on trends alone. Consider your usual makeup style, the colours you wear, and how subtle or noticeable you want your eye makeup to look.
Brown Kajal — Best for a Natural Look
Brown is one of the easiest coloured-kajal alternatives to black.
It provides definition while creating a softer appearance, especially when applied in a thin line close to the lashes.
How to wear it:
- Apply along the upper lash line.
- Keep the line thin for office or college makeup.
- Pair with a neutral lipstick and light blush.
- Use a little brown eyeshadow to soften the edges if desired.
Brown kajal works with casual outfits, kurtas, workwear, and traditional clothing.
Navy Blue Kajal — Best for a Subtle Pop of Colour
Navy blue can look understated from a distance while adding a noticeable blue tone up close.
It is a useful option if you want to try colour without choosing an especially bright shade.
How to wear it:
- Apply a thin line along the upper lashes.
- Keep the rest of the makeup neutral.
- Pair it with beige, white, blue, black, or denim outfits.
- Blend the outer corner gently if you want a softer finish.
For everyday makeup, a deep navy is often easier to coordinate than a very bright electric blue.
Green Kajal — Best for an Earthy Look
Green kajal can add a fresh touch to everyday makeup. Deep forest green and olive shades are particularly easy to coordinate with neutral and earthy colours.
How to wear it:
- Draw a fine line along the upper lash line.
- Pair it with beige, cream, brown, olive, or black clothing.
- Use neutral eyeshadow if you want the kajal to remain the focal point.
If you prefer subtle makeup, choose a deep green rather than a very bright neon shade.
Teal Kajal — Best for a Fresh, Modern Look
Teal combines blue and green tones, making it a versatile option for people who want a little more colour.
A small amount can transform an otherwise simple makeup look.
How to wear it:
- Apply it close to the upper lashes.
- Keep the eyeliner shape simple.
- Pair it with neutral eyeshadow and a natural lip colour.
- Choose a matte finish for a restrained look or a metallic finish for more impact.
Teal works well for brunch, casual outings, and days when you want something different from black.
Plum Kajal — Best for a Soft, Rich Colour
Plum offers a purple-toned alternative to traditional black or brown. Depending on the depth of the shade, it can look subtle or dramatic.
How to wear it:
- Apply a fine line along the upper lashes.
- Pair it with soft pink, mauve, nude, or neutral lipstick.
- Keep eyeshadow simple so the plum shade stands out.
- Choose a deeper plum for everyday use if you prefer a muted finish.
Plum can be a lovely option for evening outings when you want colour without using bright blue or green.
Bronze or Copper Kajal — Best for Warm Makeup
Bronze and copper-toned eye pencils can add warmth and a slight metallic effect. They are especially useful when you want your eye makeup to coordinate with warm-toned outfits or gold accessories.
How to wear it:
- Use a thin line close to the upper lashes.
- Pair it with warm brown eyeshadow.
- Keep the rest of your makeup soft.
- Check whether the product is designed for use near the eyes and whether it is suitable for your intended application area.
Metallic products are not automatically suitable for the waterline, so follow the label carefully.
How to Choose Coloured Kajal for Indian Skin Tones
There is no single shade that suits every Indian skin tone. The best choice depends on your personal preference, undertone, eye colour, and the intensity of the finish you want.
Here are some starting points.
| Desired Look | Shades to Explore |
|---|---|
| Very natural definition | Chocolate brown, deep brown |
| Subtle colour | Navy blue, forest green |
| Fresh, modern makeup | Teal, olive green |
| Warm, glowing look | Bronze, copper |
| Soft evening colour | Plum, deep purple |
| Bold eye makeup | Bright blue, emerald green |
For deeper skin tones, rich and well-pigmented shades may provide more visible colour, while lighter or metallic shades can create stronger contrast. On lighter or medium skin tones, both muted and vibrant shades can work beautifully.
These are styling suggestions, not strict rules. Try a shade in natural lighting if possible, and choose what makes you feel comfortable.
How to Apply Coloured Kajal for Everyday Makeup
You do not need an elaborate routine to wear coloured kajal. Follow these steps for a clean, everyday look.
Step 1: Start with Clean Hands and a Clean Pencil
Make sure your hands are clean and the pencil is in good condition. Do not share eye makeup products.
Step 2: Prepare the Eye Area
Remove any leftover makeup and allow the area to dry. If you use eye cream, let it absorb before applying kajal so the product is less likely to slip.
Step 3: Draw a Thin Line
Start close to the upper lash line. Use short, gentle strokes rather than pressing the pencil hard against the skin.
A thin line is usually easier to wear during the day than a thick, dramatic line.
Step 4: Blend if Needed
If the product is designed to be blended, use a clean brush to soften the outer edge before it sets. Avoid dragging the pencil repeatedly over delicate skin.
Step 5: Keep the Rest of the Makeup Simple
Pair coloured kajal with light blush, neutral eyeshadow, and a comfortable lip colour.
Step 6: Check Both Eyes
Look straight ahead and check that the colour and thickness are reasonably balanced. You can add a little more product where needed.
Important: Use a kajal or eye pencil on the waterline only if the product label specifically indicates that it is suitable for that area. Do not apply ordinary face pencils or products not intended for eye use near the eyes.
Everyday Coloured Kajal Looks for Different Occasions
Office Makeup
Choose brown or navy blue. Apply a thin line close to the upper lashes and keep the rest of your makeup understated.
College Makeup
Try brown, olive green, or a soft blue. A simple line of colour can add personality without requiring a full makeup routine.
Casual Outings
Teal or deep green can look fresh with a neutral outfit. Keep the eye shape simple and let the colour do the work.
Family Functions
Plum, bronze, or a deeper green can complement traditional Indian outfits. You can add a little eyeshadow if you want a more finished look.
Brunch or Daytime Events
Try navy blue or teal with light blush and a nude or pink lipstick. A thin line of coloured kajal can make the look feel more intentional.
Evening Makeup
Choose a deeper plum, metallic teal, or rich blue if you want a stronger look. Build the intensity gradually rather than applying too much product at once.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Coloured Kajal
Choosing a shade without considering your makeup style: If you usually wear minimal makeup, start with brown, navy, or deep green before trying a bright shade.
Applying too much product: A thick line can overwhelm a simple everyday look. Begin with a thin stroke and build gradually.
Using products in the wrong area: Not every eye pencil is suitable for the waterline. Follow the product’s instructions.
Ignoring smudging: Some formulas transfer more easily than others. Check how the product behaves on your skin before relying on it for a long day.
Rubbing the eyes: Rubbing can spread makeup and irritate the eye area. Remove makeup gently instead.
Using expired or damaged products: Replace eye makeup that has changed in texture, smell, or appearance, or has passed its recommended use period.
Sleeping with eye makeup on: Remove kajal before bed using a suitable makeup remover. Avoid harsh rubbing.
Eye Makeup Safety Tips
Because kajal is used close to the eyes, product suitability matters just as much as colour.
- Choose products intended specifically for eye use.
- Check the ingredient list and follow the manufacturer’s directions.
- Do not share kajal pencils.
- Keep the pencil cap closed and store it according to the product instructions.
- Stop using a product if you experience redness, itching, watering, pain, or irritation.
- Avoid applying makeup to irritated or infected eyes.
- If you wear contact lenses, check whether the product is suitable for contact-lens users.
- Avoid putting glitter or loose cosmetic particles directly into the eye.
- Use a gentle, suitable makeup remover and avoid rubbing the delicate eye area.
If irritation persists or you experience eye pain or changes in vision, seek advice from an eye-care professional.
How to Make Coloured Kajal Last Longer
Wear time varies according to the formula, skin type, weather, and where the product is applied. No kajal is guaranteed to stay perfect on everyone throughout the day.
Here are a few practical tips:
- Start with a clean, dry eyelid.
- Apply a thin layer instead of repeatedly layering the product.
- If the product is designed for blending, soften the edges before it sets.
- Choose a formula that matches your needs, such as a waterproof option if you need greater resistance to moisture.
- Avoid applying heavy eye cream directly beneath the area where you want the kajal to stay.
- Carry the pencil for touch-ups if you will be out for a long time.
- Remove the product gently at the end of the day.
Always follow the product instructions, especially when using waterproof formulas or applying makeup close to the waterline.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which coloured kajal is best for everyday makeup?
Brown is a practical starting point because it offers subtle definition. Navy blue and deep green are good alternatives if you want a little more colour without choosing an extremely bright shade. Best Coloured Kajals
Is brown kajal better than black for daily use?
Neither is universally better. Brown can create a softer appearance, while black offers stronger contrast and definition. Choose according to the look you prefer. Best Coloured Kajals
Which coloured kajal suits Indian skin tones?
Brown, navy, forest green, teal, plum, and bronze can all work beautifully. The best shade depends on your skin tone, undertone, outfit, and preferred intensity.
Can I wear blue kajal to the office?
Yes. A thin line of navy blue can look understated enough for many workplaces. Choose the intensity according to your workplace dress code and personal style.
Is green kajal suitable for everyday makeup?
Yes. Deep green and olive shades can be subtle enough for everyday wear, especially when paired with neutral makeup.
Can coloured kajal be used as eyeliner?
Some kajal pencils can be used along the lash line, but check the manufacturer’s directions. A product intended only for certain areas of the eye should not be used elsewhere.
How can I prevent coloured kajal from smudging?
Start with a clean, dry eye area, apply a thin layer, and choose a formula suited to your needs. Results vary by product and individual skin type, so test it before an important occasion.
Is waterproof kajal necessary for everyday makeup?
Not necessarily. A regular formula may be easier to remove for everyday use. Waterproof kajal can be useful when you need greater resistance to moisture, but it should still be removed gently.
Can I use coloured kajal on my waterline?
Only if the specific product is labelled as suitable for waterline use. Avoid using ordinary coloured pencils or products not intended for that area.
How often should I replace kajal?
Follow the product’s expiry date and the period-after-opening guidance on the packaging. Replace it sooner if the product becomes damaged, changes noticeably, or causes irritation.
Final Verdict –
Coloured kajal is an easy way to refresh your everyday makeup without investing in a large eyeshadow palette or learning complicated techniques.
Start with brown if you prefer a natural finish. Choose navy blue for subtle colour, forest green for an earthy look, teal for a modern touch, or plum for a richer effect.
Lakmé 9 to 5 Eyeconic Kajal and Kay Beauty 24HR Coloured Matte Kajal are useful ranges to explore for multiple shade options, while other brands may offer additional colours and finishes depending on current availability.
The most important thing is to choose a product intended for eye use, apply it gently, and select a shade that fits your own style.
A little colour can make your everyday makeup feel new without making it complicated.
