Can you use eyeliner for eyebrows?
At BeautyCaters, our expert team independently curates every recommended product. Purchases through our links may earn us a commission. Explore our transparent selection process.
Eyeliner doubles as a brow fix. This bold beauty hack is all over the internet! The go-to tool for dramatic eyes is now being used to shape, fill, and tame eyebrows. However, is it genius or just a gamble? Can you use eyeliner for eyebrows? Let’s dive into this eyebrow-raising hack and know the fact? Would you try this trend or stick to traditional brow products?
What do brow pencils do?
Even the most naturally blessed brows can benefit from a little enhancement. That’s where brow pencils come in. here are the key benefits of brow pencils:
- Filling in sparse areas: Brow pencils can help fill in gaps and create a fuller, more defined brow. This is especially helpful if you have over-plucked your brows or if they’re naturally sparse.
- Define your brow shape: Whether you prefer a soft, natural look or a bold, defined brow, a brow pencil can help you achieve your desired shape. You can use it to create a clean arch, extend the tail, or fill in the front of your brow.
- Balance uneven brows: If one brow is thicker or thinner than the other, a brow pencil can help balance them out. By adding color and definition to the thinner brow, you can create a more symmetrical appearance.
How do brow pencils and eyeliner pencils differ?
While brow pencils and eyeliner pencils might seem similar at first glance, they have distinct differences in their formulations, textures, and intended use.
Key Differences:
- Formulation:
- Eyeliner: Typically formulated with waxes and pigments for a long-lasting, smudge-proof finish. This formulation is designed to withstand the moisture and oil around the eyes and provide a bold, defined line.
- Brow Pencil: Designed with a softer, blendable formula to mimic natural hair and provide a natural look. Brow pencils often contain ingredients that help them adhere to the skin and brow hairs, ensuring a long-lasting effect without looking heavy or artificial.
- Texture:
- Eyeliner: Often has a creamier, more intense texture for precise lines. This texture allows for easy application and blending, ensuring a clean and defined look.
- Brow Pencil: Comes in various textures, including powder, gel, or pencil, for versatile application. Powder brow pencils offer a soft, diffused look, while gel pencils provide a more precise, defined line. Pencil brow pencils are versatile and can be used to fill in sparse areas or create a more dramatic look.
- Application:
- Eyeliner: Used to define the eyes with a precise, thin line. Eyeliner is applied along the lash line to enhance the shape and definition of the eyes. It can be used to create a variety of looks, from subtle to dramatic.
- Brow Pencil: Used to fill in sparse areas, shape the brows, and create a natural-looking finish. Brow pencils are applied with short, feathery strokes to mimic the appearance of natural brow hairs. They can also be used to create a more defined arch or to extend the tail of the brow.
Can you use eyeliner for eyebrows?
While using eyeliner as a brow product might seem like a quick fix, it’s generally not the best long-term solution. Here’s why:
- Color Mismatch: Eyeliner is often too dark and pigmented for eyebrows, leading to an unnatural, harsh look. Brow pencils, powders, and pomades are specifically formulated to match your natural hair color and provide a softer, more natural look.
- Texture: Eyeliner’s formula is designed for a precise, defined line, which may not blend well with brow hairs. Brow products, on the other hand, are designed to mimic the texture of hair, allowing for a more natural and seamless application.
- Skin Sensitivity: The delicate skin around the eyes can be irritated by the harsh chemicals in eyeliner. Brow products are typically formulated to be gentle on the skin, reducing the risk of irritation.
- Longevity: Eyeliner may not last as long as dedicated brow products, especially in humid or oily conditions. Brow products are often waterproof or water-resistant, ensuring they stay in place all day long.
Also Read: Can I wear eyeliner with lash extensions?
What are the alternatives of eyebrow pencil?
Though eyeliner is not, there are better alternatives to eyebrow pencil that give you a more natural and long-lasting result. These are the recommended eyebrow products:
- Brow Powders: For a softer, more diffused look, brow powders are a great choice. They can be used to fill in sparse areas and create a natural, powdery brow.
- Brow Pomades: These long-lasting and waterproof formulas are perfect for those with oily skin or those who want a bold, defined brow.
DIY alternatives for filling in eyebrows
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and natural approach, consider these DIY alternatives:
- Cocoa Powder or Activated Charcoal: Mix these powders with cornstarch to create a DIY brow powder.
- Eyeshadow: Use a matching eyeshadow to fill in sparse areas and define your brow shape.
- Thin Brush: A thin brush allows for precise application and can help you achieve a clean, defined look.
FAQs about eyebrow pencil
Can I use mascara on my eyebrows?
Yes, mascara can be used as an eyebrow product. Similar to a brow gel, mascara is easy to apply and a great option for beginners. It can add color, volume, and hold to your eyebrows.
Is kohl (kajal) good for eyebrows?
While kohl is a traditional cosmetic often used around the eyes, its effect on eyebrow growth is not scientifically proven. There’s anecdotal evidence, particularly in some cultures, suggesting that natural kohl may benefit baby’s eyebrows. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the eye kohl must have natural ingredients.
How can I darken my eyebrows without an eyebrow pencil?
Several natural alternatives can darken eyebrows:
Charcoal Mixture: You can create a natural eyebrow tint using a mixture of aloe vera gel, cocoa powder, vitamin E oil, and activated charcoal powder. Adjust the amount of charcoal to achieve your desired shade. Apply the mixture to your eyebrows with a spoolie or Q-tip, leave it on for about 20 minutes, and then rinse it off. Always do a patch test before applying to your brows to avoid any allergic reactions.
Is it necessary to use an eyebrow pencil?
No, an eyebrow pencil isn’t strictly necessary, but it’s a versatile tool for shaping and defining brows. Eyebrow pencils offer great control over the intensity of your brows. You can use light strokes for a natural look or build up the color with darker strokes for a more dramatic effect. Other options like brow gels, powders, and even mascara can also achieve well-defined brows. The choice depends on personal preference and desired outcome.
Final word
Eyeliner is a fun and creative way to fill in sparse brows or add a unique twist to your look. However, remember that eyeliner isn’t specifically designed for the delicate brow area. Its formula might be too harsh on the skin, and the color payoff might not be as precise as a dedicated eyebrow product.
So, is it worth the risk? Ultimately, the decision is yours. If you’re looking for a quick fix or want to experiment with a unique look, eyeliner might be an option. However, for long-lasting, natural-looking brows, a dedicated eyebrow pencil or the above alternatives is often the best choice.
