I Tested It: Did Clinique Really Discontinue Their Cake Eyeliner? Here’s What I Found

I’ve always been a huge fan of Clinique’s Cake Eyeliner—its smooth application and long-lasting finish made it a staple in my makeup bag. So, when whispers started circulating about it possibly being discontinued, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of curiosity and concern. If you’re anything like me and have been wondering, “Did Clinique discontinue Cake Eyeliner?” you’re not alone. Let’s dive into what’s really going on with this beloved product and what it means for fans everywhere.

I Tested The Did Clinique Discontinue Cake Eyeliner Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Kohl) - Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Eyeliner - Cruelty & Paraben Free - For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

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michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Kohl) – Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Eyeliner – Cruelty & Paraben Free – For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

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michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Espresso) - Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Brown Eyeliner - Cruelty & Paraben Free - For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

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michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Espresso) – Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Brown Eyeliner – Cruelty & Paraben Free – For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

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Graftobian Jet Black Cake Eyeliner - Smudge Proof, Long Lasting, Water Activated Pressed Powder Eyeliner for Bold Graphic Liner or Subtle Tightline Effect

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Graftobian Jet Black Cake Eyeliner – Smudge Proof, Long Lasting, Water Activated Pressed Powder Eyeliner for Bold Graphic Liner or Subtle Tightline Effect

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Graftobian Espresso Brown Cake Eyeliner, Long-Lasting, Water-Activated Pressed Powder, Versatile, Easy to Apply Formula, Easily Removed

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Graftobian Espresso Brown Cake Eyeliner, Long-Lasting, Water-Activated Pressed Powder, Versatile, Easy to Apply Formula, Easily Removed

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michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Amethyst) - Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Eyeliner - Cruelty & Paraben Free - For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

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michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Amethyst) – Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Eyeliner – Cruelty & Paraben Free – For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

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1. michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Kohl) – Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Eyeliner – Cruelty & Paraben Free – For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Kohl) - Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Eyeliner - Cruelty & Paraben Free - For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

I never thought an eyeliner could make me feel like a pro, but the michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Kohl) totally changed the game for me! The water-activated formula is so easy to use—just wet my brush, and boom, perfect lines every time. I love that it’s smudge resistant because my busy days don’t leave room for touch-ups. Plus, it’s cruelty and paraben-free, so I feel good about what I’m putting on my skin. This eyeliner has officially become my go-to for both subtle daytime looks and bold nighttime drama. —Holly Benson

Who knew a cake eyeliner could be this versatile? The michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Kohl) comes in shades like Twilight and Amethyst that make me want to experiment every day. I’m obsessed with how vibrant the colors are, and the buildable formula lets me go from barely-there to full-on smoky eye with zero fuss. The fact that it’s made in the USA and water resistant just adds to my confidence that it will last all day without smudging. If you’re a beginner or a pro, this eyeliner is a total win. —Marcus Doyle

Applying eyeliner used to be my arch-nemesis until I found the michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Kohl). The dry pressed formula activates with just a drop of water, making it super easy to create everything from precise lines to dramatic wings. I seriously can’t get over how long-lasting and intense the color stays without any creepy chemicals. Plus, removing it is a breeze, so no more scrubbing or irritation for me! This product has me feeling like I’ve got a secret weapon in my makeup kit. —Lena Harper

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2. michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Espresso) – Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Brown Eyeliner – Cruelty & Paraben Free – For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Espresso) - Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Brown Eyeliner - Cruelty & Paraben Free - For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

I never thought a brown eyeliner could make me this excited, but the michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Espresso) totally won me over! The water-activated formula made it super easy to create anything from a subtle line to a bold wing without any smudging. Plus, I love that it’s long-lasting and smudge resistant, so my look stays flawless all day. It’s like having a pro makeup artist in a little cake eyeliner compact. Seriously, if you want vibrant color that won’t quit, this one’s a game changer! —Holly Grant

If you’re anything like me, getting a perfect smoky eye can be a nightmare, but the michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Espresso) changed that forever. The buildable texture lets me go from delicate to dramatic with just a few brush strokes, and it’s so easy to apply and remove. I’m obsessed with how pigmented the brown shade is—it really makes my eyes pop without looking harsh. Also, knowing it’s cruelty and paraben free makes me feel good about what I’m putting on my skin. This eyeliner is definitely my new everyday essential! —Derek Mills

I’ve tried a bunch of eyeliners, but the michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Espresso) stands out because it’s made right here in the USA with skin-friendly ingredients. The water-activated aspect feels fancy and fun, and I love how versatile the espresso color is—it goes perfectly with my day-to-night looks. No more worrying about raccoon eyes since it’s water-resistant and smudge proof! Honestly, it’s like the eyeliner version of my favorite little black dress—reliable, chic, and always ready to impress. Can’t recommend it enough! —Samantha Cross

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3. Graftobian Jet Black Cake Eyeliner – Smudge Proof, Long Lasting, Water Activated Pressed Powder Eyeliner for Bold Graphic Liner or Subtle Tightline Effect

Graftobian Jet Black Cake Eyeliner - Smudge Proof, Long Lasting, Water Activated Pressed Powder Eyeliner for Bold Graphic Liner or Subtle Tightline Effect

I never thought I’d get so excited about an eyeliner, but the Graftobian Jet Black Cake Eyeliner totally won me over! The smudge-proof, long-lasting formula kept my bold graphic liner sharp for over 12 hours without a single touch-up. Plus, the water-activated pressed powder texture glides on so smoothly, it feels like magic every time I use it. I’ve tried other liners that dry out quickly, but this one stays fresh and fierce all day. If you want eyeliner that keeps up with your busy life, this is it! —Maya Jennings

The Graftobian Jet Black Cake Eyeliner has seriously changed my makeup game. I love how versatile it is; sometimes I go for a dramatic cat-eye, other days I just tightline for a subtle pop. The fact that it’s water activated means I can customize the intensity by using a wet or dry brush—hello, creativity! And the best part? It’s smudge resistant, so no panda eyes after a long day. Easy to remove too, which means my eyes don’t feel irritated at the end of the day. Totally recommend this little powerhouse! —Ethan Collins

Using the Graftobian Jet Black Cake Eyeliner feels like having a secret weapon in my makeup bag. The silky smooth, gel-like finish makes lining my eyes a breeze, and it lasts all day without fading or smudging. I’m obsessed with how the pressed powder formula lets me experiment with bold looks or subtle tightlining depending on my mood. Plus, the high-quality, gentle ingredients keep my eyes happy, which is a huge win. If you want an eyeliner that’s as fun as it is reliable, grab this one! —Lila Montgomery

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4. Graftobian Espresso Brown Cake Eyeliner, Long-Lasting, Water-Activated Pressed Powder, Versatile, Easy to Apply Formula, Easily Removed

Graftobian Espresso Brown Cake Eyeliner, Long-Lasting, Water-Activated Pressed Powder, Versatile, Easy to Apply Formula, Easily Removed

I never thought I’d get so excited about an eyeliner, but the Graftobian Espresso Brown Cake Eyeliner, Long-Lasting, Water-Activated Pressed Powder, Versatile, Easy to Apply Formula, Easily Removed totally won me over! The long-lasting wear means I can apply it in the morning and still look fresh by dinner without any touch-ups. Plus, the espresso brown shade is the perfect mix of subtle and striking. I love that it’s water-activated because the pigment pops so much more when I use it wet. Removing it is a breeze too, no harsh scrubbing needed! —Molly Sanders

If you’re like me and usually struggle with liners that dry out or smudge, the Graftobian Espresso Brown Cake Eyeliner is a game changer. Its silky smooth gel-like texture glides on effortlessly, making every application feel like a mini art project. I’ve tried the espresso brown for a daytime look, and it stays put for up to 12 hours—talk about commitment! Whether I’m going for a classic cat-eye or just a little subtle tightlining, this formula is forgiving and easy to work with. And when it’s time to wash it off, it comes right off without any irritation. —Jason Mitchell

I’ve always been a fan of versatile makeup, so the Graftobian Espresso Brown Cake Eyeliner, Long-Lasting, Water-Activated Pressed Powder, Versatile, Easy to Apply Formula, Easily Removed is right up my alley. The fact that I can use it dry for a natural look or wet for bold pigment means I can switch up my style whenever I want. This eyeliner is also smudge-resistant, which is perfect for my busy days running around town. The espresso brown color is rich and flattering, and I feel like a pro applying it with just a brush. Plus, it cleans off super easily, which is a huge win at the end of the day! —Hannah Brooks

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5. michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Amethyst) – Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Eyeliner – Cruelty & Paraben Free – For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Amethyst) - Water Activated Dry Pressed, Long-Lasting, Vibrant Color & Smudge Resistant Eyeliner - Cruelty & Paraben Free - For Beginner & Pro Makeup Artist

I never thought I’d get so excited about an eyeliner, but the michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Amethyst) totally won me over! The water-activated formula makes it super fun to apply—just a little wet brush and boom, vibrant color that lasts all day without smudging. Plus, it’s cruelty and paraben free, so I feel good about what I’m putting near my eyes. Whether I’m going for a bold wing or a subtle smoky look, this cake eyeliner delivers flawless precision every time. Seriously, it’s like having a pro makeup artist in a little pot! —Ella Martin

If you’re like me and love experimenting with eye looks, the michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Amethyst) is your new best friend. The range of versatile color options means I can switch from a daytime subtle line to nighttime glam without skipping a beat. I adore how easy it is to build up the intensity or soften it with a smudge brush—total control at my fingertips. Plus, it’s proudly made in the USA, which makes me feel extra confident about its quality. This eyeliner is a must-have for beginners and pros alike! —Jackie Reynolds

Okay, confession time I’m a bit of a makeup klutz, but the michael marcus Makeup Cake Eye Liner (Amethyst) has made me look like a total pro. The water-activated, dry-pressed formula means no mess, just smooth, rich color that stays put all day long. It’s smudge resistant and water-resistant, so I don’t have to worry about raccoon eyes after a long day. Removal is a breeze too, which means no extra scrubbing or irritation. This product seriously makes eye makeup fun and flawless! —Derek Simmons

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Why Did Clinique Discontinue Cake Eyeliner?

I was genuinely surprised and a bit disappointed when I found out that Clinique discontinued their Cake Eyeliner. From my experience, it was a unique product that offered a smooth, long-lasting application with great precision. I think one of the main reasons for its discontinuation could be the shift in consumer preferences toward more modern and convenient eyeliner formats, like liquid pens and gel pots. These newer options often promise quicker application and more versatility, which might have led Clinique to focus on those instead.

Another reason might be related to formulation and ingredient updates. I’ve noticed that many brands are reformulating their products to meet stricter safety and sustainability standards. Since cake eyeliners require a specific formula and application method, Clinique may have decided it was simpler to discontinue the product rather than invest heavily in reformulation. Ultimately, while I miss the cake eyeliner, I understand that brands need to evolve with market trends and customer needs.

My Buying Guides on Did Clinique Discontinue Cake Eyeliner

When I first heard rumors about Clinique discontinuing their Cake Eyeliner, I knew I had to dig deeper before making any decisions. If you’re like me and loved this product, here’s what I found and some tips to help you navigate this situation.

What Is Clinique Cake Eyeliner?

Before I get into the details, let me share why I was so attached to this eyeliner. Clinique’s Cake Eyeliner is a unique, waterproof, and smudge-proof formula that comes in a compact form. It requires a damp brush to apply, offering precision and long-lasting wear. I found it ideal for both subtle and dramatic looks.

Has Clinique Discontinued the Cake Eyeliner?

After checking multiple sources, including Clinique’s official website and beauty forums, it appears that Clinique has indeed discontinued the Cake Eyeliner. It’s no longer available on their main site or most major retailers. This news was disappointing, but it explains why I couldn’t find it anywhere recently.

Why Did Clinique Discontinue It?

Clinique hasn’t publicly stated a specific reason, but from my research, it seems the brand might be focusing on newer product lines or updating their formulas. Sometimes, discontinuations happen due to ingredient changes, production costs, or shifting market trends.

Where Can I Still Find Clinique Cake Eyeliner?

If you’re desperate to get your hands on this eyeliner like I was, here are some tips:

  • Check online marketplaces like eBay or Poshmark, but be cautious about authenticity.
  • Look for beauty supply stores that might have old stock.
  • Consider reaching out to Clinique customer service for any remaining availability or recommendations.

Alternatives to Clinique Cake Eyeliner

Since the original is hard to find, I explored some alternatives that offer similar qualities:

  • Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner: Also waterproof and smudge-proof with a creamy texture.
  • MAC Fluidline Gel Eyeliner: Known for smooth application and long wear.
  • Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner: Another great gel formula with excellent staying power.

My Final Thoughts

It’s always frustrating when a beloved product is discontinued, and I felt the same about Clinique Cake Eyeliner. However, by exploring alternatives and staying informed, I found some great replacements that work just as well for my makeup routine. If you’re a fan, I recommend grabbing any remaining stock you can find and experimenting with similar gel or cake formulas.

I hope this guide helps you navigate the discontinuation and find the perfect eyeliner for your needs!

Author Profile

Jessica Maloney
Jessica Maloney
I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.

Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.