The humble makeup pencil is a must-have for many beauty enthusiasts. Whether you’re defining your eyebrows, enhancing your lip shape, or crafting bold cat eyes inspired by icons like Amy Winehouse, this versatile tool remains an essential part of any routine. Some brands even package these pencils in pairs, so you can keep one at home and one in your bag for on-the-go touch-ups.
When it comes to achieving the most natural look, choosing the right pencil color is key. For eyebrows, it’s best to match the pencil to your natural hair color, especially if your hair is dark brown or lighter. This is particularly important in professional settings where appearances are often under scrutiny. Even individuals with deeper skin tones should carefully consider shades like black, off-black, or brown-black for everyday wear. A makeup consultant can be a helpful resource for finding complementary tones based on your skin’s undertones.
For a pop of color that enhances the eyes without the effort of full eyeshadow application, consider pairing black or dark brown liner on your upper lid with bold shades like magenta, emerald green, or royal blue. This technique adds vibrancy and definition without requiring as much precision.
### Lips
When lining your lips, a common mistake is reaching for a black pencil. Instead, opt for a dark brown liner or a shade slightly darker than your lipstick or gloss. This creates a more seamless look. Another misstep is failing to blend the liner, which can result in sharp, unnatural lines. To achieve a softer, more natural effect, line your lips as usual, then apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or lip balm over the entire lip. Press your lips together, and you’ll see a smooth, gradated finish that pairs beautifully with clear gloss or a swipe of lipstick.
### Blending
Blending is a vital step for creating polished, eye-catching makeup looks, and it works wonders for both eyes and brows. Affordable brushes and sponges are available to help you achieve smooth, professional results with minimal effort. For instance, to create an elegant arch, use short, outward strokes of liner on your upper lid. If you prefer, you can extend this technique to the lower lid for a smoky effect—but proceed with care. Heavy liner on the lower lid, when not blended properly, can result in a “raccoon eye” effect, particularly for those with oily skin or prone to sweating.
When using a pencil to draw or fill in brows, blending is again essential. While some are comfortable using their fingers, a blending brush provides more precision. Though dramatic, ultra-defined brows in the style of Marlene Dietrich come and go in fashion, it’s easy to go overboard. To achieve a natural-looking shape, consult beauty magazines or other resources to study where your brows should naturally arch and end. It can even help to practice shaping them by sketching on paper before diving in with makeup.
### A Versatile Essential
By keeping a variety of pencil shades and sizes on hand, you can create an array of looks without lugging around an entire makeup kit. Whether you’re aiming for subtle and natural or bold and dramatic, the trusty makeup pencil offers endless possibilities—and it’s compact enough to go wherever you do.