For those with pale or thinning eyebrows, it can be challenging to achieve a defined look that frames the face and eyes. The good news is that there are several ways to enhance your eyebrows and bring out their natural shape. One simple yet effective approach is to use an eyebrow pencil. These pencils can be used to define and improve existing eyebrows, creating a more polished shape and outlining arches. This can result in a thicker, fuller appearance that adds character to the facial features.
If you’re interested in trying this method, there are several key factors to consider when choosing the best eyebrow pencil for your needs. These include color, pencil softness, and waterproofing. By considering these elements, you can find a pencil that complements your skin tone and eye size. In addition to providing guidance on how to choose an eyebrow pencil, we’ve also compiled a list of the top 10 products in this category.
This includes options from brands like Maybelline, L’Oreal Paris, NYX Professional Makeup, and more.
Three Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Eyebrow Pencil
When it comes to selecting the ideal eyebrow pencil, there are several key factors to keep in mind. Not every eyebrow pencil is suitable for everyone, as they can vary significantly in terms of quality and performance. To ensure you find a product that meets your needs, consider the following three crucial aspects:
Color
Choosing the right color for your eyebrow pencil is crucial in achieving the desired look. A good rule of thumb is to select a shade that closely matches your natural hair color, with an upper limit being no more than one shade darker. However, going a shade or two lighter can also work well, especially if you’re looking to create a softer appearance.
For instance, if you have black hair, a harsh black pencil may not be the best choice; instead, consider a slightly lighter option that still provides definition without looking too stark. In contrast, if you have light eyebrows, a shade or two darker than your natural color can help create a more dramatic look. Redheads, on the other hand, can opt for shades like auburn, light brown, or medium brown to complement their hair.
It’s also worth noting that the pressure applied when using the pencil can be adjusted to make the brows appear darker. Ultimately, the key is to choose a color that complements both your hair and skin tone, ensuring a harmonious and polished look.
Pencil Softness
When it comes to eyebrows, the type of pencil used can significantly impact the final result. A harder pencil is likely to leave a more defined, harsh line on your brow, whereas a softer pencil allows the wax coating to adhere to individual hairs for a more natural-looking finish. This subtle difference can greatly affect the overall appearance of your brows.
Not only does the softness or hardness of the pencil impact the look it produces, but it also affects its performance.
Harder pencils are more prone to breaking, making them less ideal for frequent use, whereas softer pencils offer greater control and precision when applying.
Waterproof
When selecting an eyebrow pencil, consider opting for a waterproof option instead. Not only do waterproof formulas tend to be creamier than their non-waterproof alternatives, but they’re also more resilient and less prone to fading or smudging throughout the day.
Top 10 Best Eyebrow Pencils 2024
Maybelline Total Temptation Eyebrow Definer Pencil
Maybelline’s Total Temptation Eyebrow Definer Pencil is a standout product that has earned its place in our hearts. Its unique blend of cream and powder provides rich pigmentation, allowing users to create beautifully defined eyebrows with ease. The pencil itself features a fine triangle tip, making it ideal for drawing both subtle and bold strokes. Furthermore, the formula is surprisingly hard, ensuring a flawless application that won’t budge even with daily wear.
The retractable angled tip applicator is another notable feature of this product. Perfect for those with sparse eyebrows, it allows for firm, accurate strokes that fill in brows precisely. Additionally, the included soft grooming brush enables users to shape and fluff their brows for a natural finish. Available in four shades – soft brown, medium brown, deep brown, and blonde – each pencil features stunning pink packaging and an attached brush spoolie.
As part of Maybelline’s Total Temptation collection, these brow definer pencils offer a range of benefits, including ease of use, long-lasting wear, and built-in convenience. To get the most out of this product, we recommend following these simple steps: define the brow with the narrow end of the applicator, fill from the brow anchor to the arch using the base of the tip, and then fill in the rest of the eyebrow tail with the narrow end.
While it may require a second application for some users, the results are well worth the extra effort. With its combination of ease of use, long-lasting wear, and built-in benefits, Maybelline’s Total Temptation Eyebrow Definer Pencil is an excellent addition to any makeup routine.
L’Oreal Paris Brow Stylist Definer
The L’Oreal Paris Makeup Brow Stylist Definer Waterproof Eyebrow Pencil is a standout choice for those seeking an affordable, effective, and gentle brow-defining experience. Its soft crayon tip ensures irritation-free application, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive eyes or skin, including contact lens wearers. The waterproof formula allows for poolside pampering without compromising the look.
A 2018 Glamour Award Beauty Award winner, this pencil features a pro-tip for finely shaped brows and comes with a grooming brush to comb eyebrows upward and outward, creating a more defined appearance. Available in seven shades, it accommodates various hair colors and skin tones. While the lack of visible product left might be a minor inconvenience, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
NYX Professional Makeup Micro Brow Pencil
NYX Professional Makeup Micro Brow Pencil has won over our hearts with its impressive features. For one, the formula is completely vegan, free from animal-derived ingredients and cruelty-free to boot – a certification that’s music to the ears of our eco-conscious readers. This dual-ended wonder combines a precision pencil with a spoolie brush, making it a must-have for anyone looking to define their sparse brows or tame unruly hairs.
The result is a natural-looking finish that effortlessly frames your face. The creamy formula glides on smoothly, allowing you to easily fill in areas that look sparse or over-tweezed, creating the illusion of fuller-looking brows. With eight shades to choose from – blonde, taupe, auburn, ash brown, chocolate, espresso, brunette, and black – there’s something for everyone. As for application, simply use short strokes with the pencil, then blend with the spoolie end to achieve a natural finish.
While it may have some minor drawbacks, such as being prone to mistakes if applied too harshly or having a slightly mediocre texture, the pros far outweigh the cons. In fact, we’re big fans of its ease of use, travel-friendliness, and attractive packaging – not to mention the long-wearing formula that delivers a natural finish.
Maybelline New York Define-A-Brow Eyebrow Pencil
Maybelline New York’s Define-A-Brow Eyebrow Pencil has gained a loyal following due to its impressive array of features. For starters, this mechanical pencil boasts a waterproof formula that ensures all-day wear without worrying about smudging or fading. The lack of sharpening needed is also a major plus, as it eliminates the hassle of constantly sharpening and reapplying. With a built-in comb on the back end, users can easily groom their brows into place.
Not only does this pencil provide a smooth application, but it’s also been tested by ophthalmologists worldwide and proven to be safe for sensitive eyes. The formula blends seamlessly with natural brow color, allowing for a natural finish that looks like you’re not wearing anything at all. While the pencil can be tricky to gauge how much product is left, its overall value-for-money proposition makes it a worthwhile investment.
Etude House Drawing Eye Brow Pencil
What sets this brow pencil apart is its trifecta of benefits: affordability, water-resistance, and smudge-proof quality. This means you can achieve a perfectly defined eyebrow shape without worrying about it smudging or running during the day. The Etude House Drawing Eyebrow pencil boasts a soft, textured design that makes it easy to manipulate into place. The angled tip allows for precise control over individual hairs, enabling you to build up thicker, fuller-looking arches with ease.
Whether you’re looking for a natural, understated look or something bolder and more dramatic, this pencil can help you achieve the desired effect. The included spoolie is a game-changer when it comes to tidying up your brows. Its gentle bristles allow for seamless blending and dispersal of product, ensuring that even sparse areas are fully covered. The compact size makes it easy to maneuver around the contours of your brow bone.
One of the standout features of this pencil is its range of color options – seven different shades to choose from, including Brown, Gray, Black Brown, Gray Brown, Light Brown, Dark Gray, and Black. This ensures that there’s a shade to suit even the most discerning individual. In terms of application, simply follow these steps: start by filling in between the hairs using the wider surface, then draw the eyebrow line and delicate edges using the slimmer surface.
Use short upward strokes in the direction of hair growth, beginning at the arch and working your way towards the tail of the brow. Finally, use the soft-bristled spoolie to blend the brow for a uniform, natural-looking definition. The pros of this pencil are numerous: it’s affordable, water-resistant and smudge-proof, doesn’t irritate the eyes, comes with a brush, offers natural-looking results, is easy to use, and has a range of color options.
The cons include minimal product quantity, eventual fading when sweating, and not being ideal for those who prefer bolder, more dramatic brow styles.
Revlon ColorStay Brow Pencil
Revlon’s ColorStay Brow Pencil is an effortless option for defining and filling brows. Its unique design features an angled tip for precise application and a spoolie brush on the opposite end for blending. The soft, smooth formula glides effortlessly across the skin, giving shape to the brows without making them appear unnatural or thick. Although it may require two swipes to build up the color, the excellent pigmentation ensures that the final result is rich and vibrant.
The pencil boasts a remarkable waterproof and long-lasting formula, allowing for all-day wear without smudging. The twist-up mechanism eliminates the need for sharpening, making it a convenient option for those on-the-go. Available in five shades – soft black, soft brown, auburn, blonde, and dark brown – this product offers something for everyone. When applying, start by defining your brows using the angled tip, feathering a soft line along the natural shape of your eyebrow.
Fill in any gaps or sparse areas with short, feathery strokes, following the direction of your natural hair growth. Finally, use the spoolie brush to comb through your brow and blend the color. While this product has its advantages – such as its precise application and long-lasting formula – it also has a few drawbacks. The formula can be quite hard, requiring multiple swipes to achieve the desired shade.
Additionally, the pencil may break if you’re not gentle when using it, so be sure to pull out only a small amount of product at a time.
IT Cosmetics Brow Power Universal Brow Pencil
IT Cosmetics’ Brow Power Universal brow pencil is a game-changer for anyone looking to achieve fuller, more defined arches. This two-in-one pencil features a soft, powdery formula that adheres to individual hairs, regardless of your natural brow color. The universal shade works on all hair colors, and the oval-shaped tip is designed to deliver smooth, precise strokes whether you have thick or thin brows. The spoolie end brush allows for easy clean-up and polishing of your brows.
What’s more, this fragrance-free pencil is travel-friendly due to its sturdy silver and black metallic packaging. IT Cosmetics takes it a step further by donating a beauty product to Look Good Feel Better for every Brow Power Universal brow pencil sold, helping women with cancer feel confident in their appearance. To get the most out of this product, apply it lightly on lighter hair colors and more firmly on darker tones.
Finish off your look by gently brushing the spoolie brush through your eyebrows. The pros of this product far outweigh the cons – its universal appeal, precise application, and long-lasting wear make it a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their brow game. While some may be concerned about its chemical formulation or limited quantity, the benefits far outweigh any drawbacks.
Maybelline Brow Precise Micro Eyebrow Pencil
Why we love it:The precision of Maybelline Brow Precise Micro Eyebrow Pencil lies in its ultra-fine 1.5mm tip, which allows for meticulous control when shaping your brows. The accompanying blending brush further enhances this accuracy by softly blending the lines, resulting in a fuller and more natural-looking brow. This pencil is designed to mimic the look of hair-like strokes, filling in sparse areas while adding depth and dimension to the arches.
As you glide it through your hairs, the ultra-fine tip delivers soft, natural-looking strokes that blend seamlessly with your existing brow hair. The attached spoolie brush can then be used to tame and preen your brows for a polished finish. The pencil is available in four shades – blonde, soft brown, dark brown, and auburn – catering to different hair colors and skin tones.
With rich pigment that lasts throughout the day (provided you don’t touch your brows), this brow pencil is an excellent choice for those seeking to define, sculpt, or accentuate their brows. How it works:1. Draw small, light strokes along your brow contour using the precision tip.2. Use the blending brush to groom your hairs upward and outward, blending color and setting your brows in place.
Pros:• Blends into brows perfectly, creating defined and natural-looking results• Easy to use, even for those new to brow shaping• Available in four shades to suit different hair colors and skin tones• Comes with a convenient blending brushCons:• The product amount is minimal, making it prone to running out quickly
ANASTASIA Beverly Hills Brow Wiz
ANASTASIA Beverly Hills Brow Wiz Soft Brown brow pencil has earned its reputation as a top-performing product. Its water-resistant formula creates stunning, natural-looking brows that can withstand the test of time. With ten diverse shades available, this pencil is suitable for all skin tones, from light to dark. While it may be on the pricier side, the soft and creamy texture makes it well worth the investment.
The retractable design also ensures minimal waste, as you only need a small amount to achieve precise, defined brows. In addition to its impressive staying power – lasting at least 8 hours without fading – this pencil is smudge-proof and perfect for over-tweezed or sparse brows. The soft formula glides smoothly onto the brows, allowing for clean lines and a natural finish. You can even use it as an eyeliner for added versatility.
The included grooming brush combs and shapes the brows perfectly, while the ultra-thin tip makes it easy to define thin or sparse brows. With great pigmentation and staying power, this pencil is a must-have for anyone looking to achieve perfectly defined brows. However, be cautious when applying pressure, as the formula can break easily if you’re too forceful. Despite this minor drawback, ANASTASIA Beverly Hills Brow Wiz Soft Brown brow pencil remains a top choice among beauty enthusiasts.
Almay Brow Defining Pencil
The Almay Brow Defining Pencil stands out for its soft, natural color that lasts all day. Its unique mechanical twist design allows it to sharpen automatically into a super-fine tip, providing precise definition. Furthermore, the pencil is fortified with aloe and vitamin E to soothe and nourish your brows and skin. With its creamy 100% waterproof formula, you can enjoy a stress-free brow experience, knowing that once-daily application will suffice regardless of weather conditions.
The absence of sharpening also minimizes waste and guarantees a consistently groomed look. Additionally, the pencil features a built-in grooming brush that allows for effortless combing of brows to achieve a natural appearance. Its fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and ophthalmologist-tested formula makes it suitable for individuals with sensitive eyes or who wear contact lenses.
While it may come in only three shades, limiting options, the Almay Brow Defining Pencil is still an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, long-lasting brow solution. Application is straightforward: use the pointed tip to define shape, fill in brows with the flat edge, and finish by grooming hair with the brush. The benefits include fragrance-free, ophthalmologist-tested, hypoallergenic, no sharpening required, and all-day wear.
However, users should be aware of the limited shade options and difficulty in determining how much product remains.
Guide to Buying the Best Eyebrow Pencil
When seeking the ideal eyebrow pencil, whether you’re a makeup newbie or an aficionado, it’s crucial to identify the right product. Without the proper match, your desired results may be elusive. To make informed choices, consider several key factors: the formula, shade range, and budget constraints. By examining these elements in greater detail, we can uncover the perfect pencil for your unique needs.
Formula
When selecting a brow pencil, opt for one that boasts a silky smooth consistency. This allows for seamless gliding over the brows, enabling you to craft a precise shape with ease. A product with long-lasting pigmentation is also crucial, as heat and humidity can cause the color to fade prematurely. To find your ideal match, experiment with different formulas to determine which provides the most natural-looking results for your unique brow type.
Shade
When selecting a brow pencil, it’s crucial to consider the shade. Ideally, choose one that harmonizes with your hair color and skin tone. If you have naturally dark or black hair, a dark brown shade is often the most effective at filling in brows. On the other hand, using a black pencil may result in a fake-looking finish. Individuals with deep skin tones can achieve natural-looking results by first applying a dark brown shade before filling in their brows with a slightly darker tone.
Those with natural brown hair will find that a medium brown shade complements their locks well. It’s also essential to ensure the brow pencil shade is one to two shades lighter than your actual eyebrow color. This rule applies regardless of your natural hair color, including those with blonde or burgundy locks. A very light shade can appear pale on the skin and have little impact on the brows themselves.
If you’re looking for a more subtle appearance, consider pairing a cool skin tone with a pale brown brow pencil. In contrast, those with warm-toned skin will benefit from a deep brown pencil shade that accentuates their facial features without overpowering them.
Skin Tone
When selecting an eyebrow pencil, it’s crucial to consider your skin tone and undertones. For those with light skin and pink undertones, an ashy blonde shade can help create a natural-looking brow that complements their complexion. Similarly, individuals with light skin and dark hair may find success with a light brown pencil that has ash tones. In contrast, it’s generally best to avoid warm or reddish shades for eyebrows, even if you have brown or warm-toned hair.
In terms of shade selection, it’s worth noting that eyebrows tend to be cooler than the hair on your head. As such, using a cooler, more ashy shade can help create a natural-looking brow. For those with olive skin, a light to medium brown pencil can provide an ideal match. If you have skin that tans easily, a medium brown shade can help define your brows against your complexion. Ultimately, the key is to choose a color that’s one to two shades lighter than your skin tone.
This will ensure your eyebrows stand out and appear well-defined on your face.
Eye Size vs. Eyebrow Color
When considering the perfect eyebrow shade, it’s essential to take into account the size of your eyes. Large, bright eyes benefit from rich, bold brows that won’t overpower their natural brightness. In contrast, smaller eyes are complemented by softer, more subtle hues that don’t overwhelm their delicate shape.
Budget
When it comes to eyebrow pencils, affordability is key. You won’t need to sacrifice a significant portion of your budget to find a high-quality option that suits your style. In fact, it’s not uncommon for the most expensive products on the market to be overpriced simply because they carry a well-known brand name. On the contrary, many mid-range eyebrow pencils offer comparable quality and performance at a fraction of the cost.
Before making a purchase decision, take some time to think about how the brow pencil will fit into your overall look. Consider not only the product itself but also the brand behind it, asking yourself if it’s likely to deliver value for your money. By taking these factors into account, you’ll be well on your way to finding an eyebrow pencil that meets your needs and enhances your beauty routine.
Final Thoughts
The role of eyebrows in framing one’s facial features cannot be overstated. Properly groomed and well-shaped brows play a crucial part in creating harmony on the face. Well-defined eyebrows not only draw attention to the eyes but also soften facial features, striking a perfect balance. While some may naturally have full, thick eyebrows, others may require assistance in achieving this look.
An eyebrow pencil is an ideal tool for this purpose, allowing users to create thicker, fuller, and natural-looking brows that can even give the face a dramatic lift. However, finding the right eyebrow pencil can be daunting, especially with numerous brands vying for attention. Fortunately, all the pencils featured on our list are from well-established brands. When selecting an eyebrow pencil, it is essential to consider two key factors: the color and texture.
The pencil should blend seamlessly with one’s hair and skin tone, while also offering a soft and smooth formula. Interestingly, the best eyebrow pencil does not necessarily have to break the bank. Our comprehensive review and buyer’s guide aim to assist you in finding the perfect brow pencil that suits your needs.
