With the abundance of eyebrow pencils on the market, it can be difficult to find the perfect pencil for your routine. Some pencils have an ultra-thin profile that simulates real hairs, while others have angled tips for a more tailored look.
According to makeup expert Katrina Klein of BAZAAR.com, “big, soft brows with no hard edges” are the most popular style this year.
One of the easiest ways to add volume and definition to sparse areas or generally thin brows is to use a brow pencil, which uses its handy spoolie brush to hold hairs in place.
5 Best Eyebrow Pencils
1. Charlotte Tilbury Brow Cheat Refillable Hair-Like Eyebrow Pencil
In our field testing of dozens of products, we unanimously concluded that Charlotte Tilbury’s Brow Cheat is the best. We tried the natural black color and found that it showed off beautifully without being too overbearing due to the strong pigmentation of the color. In addition, it was able to add natural looking hairs with a single stroke, all without layering.
The product’s matte sheen makes for seamless integration with her own hair. The fine, tapered tip of this pencil is ideal for detail work. It can be used to create a defined brow shape or fill in sparse areas. The tip is sturdy and will not break easily, and the lush texture applies evenly without dragging, according to our tester.
The spoolie attached to the tip allows for convenient blending, fluffing and sculpting. An added bonus is that it can be refilled, much like a mechanical pencil, eliminating waste. We had no problems with this product, which comes in eight tone-on-tone colors and is said to be waterproof for 16 hours.
2. Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer
Having used both the Brow Wiz and the Brow Definer from Anastasia Beverly Hills, we can confidently say we prefer the latter. We consider it the “gold standard of brow pencils” because it’s so creamy that it draws natural-looking brows without covering up your own hairs.
The angled triangle at the end of the pencil is functional and practical. You can use the pointed end to draw fine lines, define or colour your brows, while the flat end allows you to blend your work.
Our tester found that the long-lasting pigmentation of the Brow Definer does a good job of preventing smudging, although the product is not waterproof. If only it were available in a subtle dark colour.
3. e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil
Looking for a more affordable option? This eyebrow pencil from e.l.f. is dirt cheap, but just as effective as more expensive brands. Our tester, who has strong brows, found the dark brown shade easy to apply, as the product has a smooth texture and a sturdy applicator tip.
Although we would like to see a wider color range, we can not complain about the pigmentation of this product; it’s rich without being overwhelming. Our tester reported that it rubbed off very easily, as it is not waterproof. In any case, we were very pleased and will buy it again.
4. NYX Professional Makeup Fill & Fluff Eyebrow Pencil Pomade
You can always rely on NYX, because it is a reliable, widely used drugstore brand of makeup. This eyebrow pencil, for example, is easy on the wallet. (Two other pencils from the same brand were also tested, but this one performed slightly better in the lab). The smooth and creamy pomade formula appealed to our tester, who found it ideal for filling in brows.
Thanks to the precise tip and thicker edge of the beveled triangle tip, you can choose to draw thin lines or define your arches. This brush is an alternative to the traditional spoolie and has toothbrush-like bristles for detangling and loosening. One tester pointed out that the pigment is quite strong, so care should be taken when applying hair-like strokes.
5. Kosas Brow Pop Clean Dual-Action Defining Eyebrow Pencil
The Kosas Brow Pop we tested has a smooth, lightweight consistency, according to our panel of experts. This brow pencil has a stronger edge and a sharp point thanks to its triangular tip. The integrated spoolie in the multi-stage system helps you blend and brush the hair in the right direction after styling.
The vegan formula is not waterproof and non-transferable, but the transparent lamination included in the set ensures that everything stays in place.
Although our tester found the product sticky at first, she reported that her brows felt fluffy and silky after drying. However, there is little evidence that the castor oil in this product actually promotes brow growth.
What Is An Eyebrow Pencil?
As far as cosmetics go, eyebrow pencils are a hot commodity. With this product, you can enhance the color of your brows, define their shape, and fill in sparse areas.
The ideal eyebrow pencil varies from person to person, but there are some elements to consider when looking for one. Many eyebrow pencils are available in a wide range of shades, so you can find one that goes well with your hair color.
Choose a lighter pencil if your eyebrow hairs are naturally light. On the other hand, if your eyebrows are already quite dark, you should choose a darker pencil.
Some pencils even have a brush that you can use to apply the substance to your eyebrows for a seamless result. It’s important that you choose a pencil to fill in your eyebrows that’s not difficult to handle and gives you the look you want.
How To Use An Eyebrow Pencil?
Eyebrow pencils are a versatile tool that can be used to achieve anything from a subtle, natural look to a striking, eye-catching statement. Here is a detailed guide on how to trace your eyebrows with a pencil.
As mentioned earlier, you should choose an eyebrow pencil whose shade is similar to your natural hair color. Once you have decided on a theme, you can start drawing. The innermost part of your eyebrow is the best place to fill in bald spots with fine, feathery strokes.
Follow the curve of your brow as you move toward the edges. Applying the color with more pressure will give you a more defined look.
In the final step, blend the color with a spoolie brush or your fingertip for a seamless look.
Is An Eyebrow Pencil Worth It?
When it comes to makeup application, an eyebrow pencil can make or break your look. Celebrities often have perfectly curved brows, and now you know the secret to getting them.
Define and shape your brows with an eyebrow pencil for a professionally groomed look that lasts all day. Also, if you fill in sparse or thinning brows with an eyebrow pencil, you’ll look younger overall.
Any drugstore or beauty supply store should have a selection of eyebrow pencils in shades that match your hair color. So if you are looking to upgrade your beauty routine, these pencils are a worthwhile investment.
How To Shop For The Best Eyebrow Pencil?
When it comes to eyebrow pencils, there are a lot of different alternatives to choose from. So how can you know which is the best eyebrow pencil for you? Please consider the following points:
First, you should estimate how much eyebrow hair you have. If you have thicker eyebrows, you will need an eyebrow pencil that is more pigmented and has a firmer lead. On the other hand, if your eyebrow hairs are sparser, you should choose a softer pencil.
Secondly, you should think about the shade of your eyebrow hairs. If you have really dark eyebrow hairs, you need a correspondingly dark eyebrow pencil. However, if your eyebrow hairs are lighter, you need an eyebrow pencil that is also lighter. Otherwise, the effect will look artificial.
Finally, you should consider how your eyebrows look. If you have a very straight eyebrow, you need an eyebrow pencil with a very fine tip. This will make your lines clear and distinct.
However, if your eyebrows are naturally curved, you should use a pencil with a wider tip. Use this to fill in your brows in a natural way.
If you keep these things in mind, you can find the perfect eyebrow pencil!
Eyebrow Pencils FAQs
How long do eyebrow pencils last?
You can achieve perfectly groomed eyebrows with an eyebrow pencil. Available in a wide range of colors to match your hair and skin tone, they can be used to conceal bald spots, draw attention to your brows, or add a splash of color. What about the longevity of eyebrow pencils?
The type of eyebrow pencil you use and the frequency with which you trace your brows are two of the most important variables that affect the answer.
For example, a waterproof eyebrow pencil will last much longer than a regular pencil. The same goes for your eyebrow pencil: if you use it daily, you’ll need to replace it more often than if you only use it occasionally.
Still, most eyebrow pencils last a few months before being thrown away. Therefore, an eyebrow pencil is a good choice for those who want to maintain their eyebrows all day long. Make sure you choose a pencil that suits your needs and your wallet.
Are eyebrow pencils waterproof?
There is no clear answer to the direct question of whether eyebrow pencils are waterproof. It is worth noting that not all pencils claim to be waterproof.
Eyebrow pencils, on the other hand, are usually not as waterproof as mascara or eyeliner, for example. This is because the color of an eyebrow pencil needs to be blended into the skin to achieve a natural look.
It would not look realistic if the color was overly saturated or waterproof. However, there are some eyebrow pencils that are more waterproof than others.
Do your homework and read reviews before buying an eyebrow pencil with waterproof ink. Thanks to the wide selection, you can choose an eyebrow pencil that suits you.
How do I stop my eyebrow pencil from smudging?
Eyebrow pencil smudging can be avoided by following these steps.
Simply put, start with a good eyebrow pencil. It’s important to choose an eyebrow pencil that fits you well, as some pencils are more prone to smudging than others.
Secondly, you should be very gentle when filling in your eyebrows with a pencil. If you press too hard, your pencil may smudge.
Finally, use a clear eyebrow gel or powder to set the pencil.
This way, the color will stay longer and won’t smudge throughout the day. If you follow the given advice, your eyebrow pencil shouldn’t smudge.
How We Chose The Best Eyebrow Pencils?
To make sure we know all the brands that are out there, we research extensively on the Internet and with the industry’s leading online retailers before making a final decision.
We consider many factors, such as customer feedback, star ratings, brand philosophy, production methods, raw materials, and ease of accessibility. We take the time to think through the pros and cons so you don’t have to.