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When looking for the best eyebrow makeup for travel, we want something that can last all day and is small, that’s why we’ve found the best waterproof brow pencil selections for your next vacay!
Best Eyebrow Pencil
Written By: Laura Pulling
Table Of Contents
The eyebrows can be a pivotal part of your makeup routine to feeling put together, but not all eyebrow products are created equal, and if you want something durable and long-lasting, the best pencils out there are waterproof, which is an important aspect for travel, especially when visiting beach or lake locales, or if you’re going to a humid, hot country.
Some women love to also use eyebrow gel, which is a fave of editor-in-chief Alex. Yet, it can be confusing to know the difference between gel and a pencil. An eyebrow pencil can help fill in missing hairs, while a gel is used for helping to tame unruly brows and has a slight tint.
Another thing you don’t want to worry about is your makeup melting or washing away when taking a dip somewhere! Luckily brow pencils are generally small, so they won’t take up a lot of space in your travel makeup bag, but which is the top one?
We’ve looked at the lot, from the best drugstore eyebrow pencil to high-end products to give you, the TFG readers, the best options!
Best Waterproof Brow Pencil
Shop: Nordstrom | Macy’s | ULTA | M.A.C
MAC Shape + Shade Brow Tint
So this MAC eyebrow pencil isn’t a pencil exactly, more of an incredibly fine-tipped felt-tip brow pen containing their special liquid formula. It’s double-ended, having the product pen on one side, and a sponge tip on the other end, which is great for blending.
Users love this easy to apply MAC brow pencil and share that it’s long-lasting. Some users have found that the pigmentation can be a bit pale, but others say that giving it a good shake helps!
One wearer shares, “This product blends right in with my eyebrow color and enhances them. The pen is easy to use. I love it!”
Check out our tips for packing travel makeup!
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Pen
Fans previously raved about the Anastasia brow pencil, and while it’s still awesome—it’s not waterproof. This new Anastasia brow pen IS waterproof and is beginning to convert pencil fans. This superfine-tipped pen helps you to build and define brows by micro-stroking with precision application, much finer than a pencil can ever be. The formula is smooth and mimics hairs for a natural appearance.
One user touts, “I’m not going to lie, I’m loving this. I am ALWAYS on the lookout for a good brow product and as usual, ABH never disappoints. ABH brow pens have a finer tip and the product is coming out more matte on my skin”
Plus we love that you can text ABH to get your perfect color match eyebrow pen too!
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Shop: Amazon | Sephora | Kohl’s
Sephora Collection Waterproof Eyebrow Pencils
This Sephora eyebrow pencil has an ultra-fine tip and a cool feature is it’s retractable, so when you run out, simply twist it to get more color—no sharpener required (and I HAVE been in that unfortunate situation of having a blunt pencil in the middle of nowhere—not fun!). The opposite side has a spoolie end for easy taming and blending. Plus it comes in 10 long-lasting shades.
Users love it, especially its waterproof abilities, with one sharing this review, “The eyebrow pencil Sephora makes is definitely a good bang for your buck. I can attest to it being waterproof as I have worn this to the beach and showered with it on in those outdoor beach showers in Mexico. It’s sweat-proof as well.”
Here are even more of our readers’ recommendations for the best sweat proof makeup!
Maybelline Waterproof Microblading Pen
This Maybelline brow tint pen might sound scary, with the term microblading involved for a DIY at-home product, but it’s not quite the same as the salon treatment! The name comes from the results, with a temporary 24-hour microblade effect from using it! This eyebrow marker has premium ink that creates a natural hair-like look. This set also includes a brow razor for tidying up your brows, to begin with.
One user explains, “I was looking for a quality brow pencil that is waterproof and sweat-proof, and I finally found it. It’s very simple to use and keeps your makeup on all day long. I went swimming today, it’s still very good, I have fallen in love with it.”
Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Macy’s | ULTA | Sephora
Benefit Goof Proof Eyebrow Pencil
Goof Proof is the name of this Benefit eyebrow pencil that shows anyone can use it! It has a custom tip with a fine point and wider edge that shapes, defines, and fills brows without making a mess or looking blotchy—perfect for the makeup novice! Plus it’s twistable, so no sharpener needed! Grab this in 12 different waterproof shades to match your brow color.
Users share that it’s easy to apply, blends well, and is long-lasting, with one sharing, ”Stays on even when sweating. Goes on smooth and easy—no lumping,” and another agrees,
“Everything about this product is wonderful. Looks so natural and easy to use with the slanted tip and brush and the other end. Highly recommend this product”
You can also get it in a mini size that’s even more compact for traveling!
These are the best waterproof mascara that holds up!
Shop: Amazon | Ulta Beauty | Walmart | Milani
Milani Stay Put Brow Sculpting Micro Pencil
This inexpensively priced best drugstore brow pencil is loved by consumers, the Milani eyebrow pencil glides on effortlessly to shape, define, and fill sparse brows that have been overplucked and tweezed. With a spoolie on one end to control and style and a pencil on the other in a water-resistant, long-lasting formula.
One user explains, “Yeah it’s cheap and that throws a lot of people off, but this is actually better than most of the higher-end pencils. It does the same job and the color is perfect and lasts ALL DAY!” But users wish it was made in more than two eyebrow color shades.
Shop: Amazon | ULTA | Target | Walmart
L’Oréal Brow Stylist Definer
Users love this LOreal eyebrow pencil, another cleverly designed gadget, with a retractable tip, making the point super thin for easy to apply strokes that will look natural and sharp. Combined with a spoolie brush on the opposite end, this is the only tool you’ll need for the best brows in town!
One wearer explains, “Easiest and fastest way of filling in my eyebrows! They match my colored eyebrows and make them look very natural. Love this product!”
Here are the best long lasting lipstick recommendations that our readers swear by!
Shop: Amazon | Sephora | ULTA | Nordstrom
IT Cosmetics Mini Brow Power Universal Brow Pencil
After a sweaty and exhausting (but well worth it) sightseeing day, the last thing you want is to look in the mirror and see half your eyebrow is wiped off. With this IT Cosmetics pencil you’ll have long lasting wear all day long!
Because this pencil was created with plastic surgeons and dermatologists, it’s not only cruelty free but it’s made from biotin, saw palmetto, and antioxidants to naturally mimic the look of real hair (and cover those pesky grays). The best part? IT Cosmetics matches each purchase with a donation to help women with cancer.
You can also grab it in a mini-travel size at Sephora, too!
Shop: Nordstrom
YENSA Defining Brow Pencil
There’s already enough pollution and toxins entering your pores as you travel, so YENSA decided to create a product that enhances your natural look, has skin-loving benefits, and lasts beyond your adventures.
Their super brow defining pencil has no synthetic fragrances or sulphates, so you can say adios to inflamed skin. The tip provides hair-like strokes to help fill out your brows.
A happy reviewer says, “Best brow pencil I’ve come across… looks very natural looking and I like that you don’t need a pencil sharpener. I usually only buy bare essentials products because I have sensitive skin, except for this!”
For sensitive skin, long-lasting, and water-resistant, it checks all the marks!
Here’s how to pack lighter by choosing the essentials to create your own travel capsule makeup collection!
Shop: Amazon | Nordstrom | Sephora | ULTA
Too Faced Pomade In A Pencil Brow Shaper and Filler
36-hour wear is the new 24-hour, with this Two Faced Pomade brow pencil you’ll feel confident with your lush brows from island to bar hopping (and beyond)! Sculpt and control those stubborn pieces of hair, solve your patchy brow problem, and keep your bold brows on point through rain, snow, or sweat!
A satisfied wearer exclaims, “Nothing I didn’t love about this product!! The color blended very well, and the pomade stayed put. Tapered edge to line precisely. My go-to now!”
Best Brow Makeup Product Comparison Chart
| BRAND | MODEL | FEATURES | REVIEWS | RATING | PRICE |
|---|---|---|
| Best Waterproof Brow Pencil | ||
|
MAC Shape + Shade Brow Tint
|
“This product blends right in with my eye brow color and enhances them. The pen is easy to use. I love it!” | Check Price |
|
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Pen
|
“I'm not going to lie, I'm loving this. I am ALWAYS on the lookout for a good brow product and as usual ABH never disappoints. ABH brow pens have a finer tip and the product is coming out more matte on my skin” | Check Price |
|
Sephora Collection Waterproof Eyebrow Pencils
|
"I can attest to it being waterproof as I have worn this to the beach and showered with it on in those outdoor beach showers in Mexico. It’s sweat-proof as well.” | Check Price |
|
Maybelline Waterproof Microblading Pen |
“I was looking for a quality brow pencil that is waterproof and sweat-proof, and I finally found it. It's very simple to use and keeps your makeup on all day long. I went swimming today, it’s still very good, I have fallen in love with it.” | Check Price |
|
Benefit Goof Proof Eyebrow Pencil |
“Everything about this product is wonderful. Looks so natural and easy to use with the slanted tip and brush and the other end. Highly recommend this product” | Check Price |
|
Milani Stay Put Brow Sculpting Micro Pencil
|
“Yeah it's cheap and that throws a lot of people off, but this is actually better than most of the higher end pencils. It does the same job and the color is perfect and lasts ALL DAY!” | Check Price |
L'Oréal Brow Stylist Definer
|
“Easiest and fastest way of filling in my eyebrows! They match my colored eyebrows and make them look very natural. Love this product!” | Check Price |
|
IT Cosmetics Mini Brow Power Universal Brow Pencil |
After a sweaty and exhausting (but well worth it) sightseeing day, the last thing you want is to look in the mirror and see half your eyebrow is wiped off. With this IT Cosmetics pencil you’ll have long lasting wear all day long! | Check Price |
|
YENSA Defining Brow Pencil |
“Best brow pencil I’ve come across... looks very natural looking and I like that you don’t need a pencil sharpener. I usually only buy bare essentials products because I have sensitive skin, except for this!” | Check Price |
|
Too Faced Pomade In A Pencil Brow Shaper and Filler |
“Nothing I didn't love about this product!! The color blended very well, and the pomade stayed put. Tapered edge to line precisely. My go-to now!” | Check Price |
How to Pencil In Eyebrow
Begin by brushing your eyebrows (like you would your hair!) brush them upward in a straight motion to see where your eyebrows naturally arch and shape.
Use a sharp pencil tip to draw in short, regular strokes that mimic hairs, filling in gaps for a defined look.
Obviously practice makes perfect, so when you are learning how to use eyebrow pencil take your time and use a magnified and lit mirror for the best view.
Watch this video to see how to downsize your makeup for travel!
How to Downsize Your Make Up
Only pack what you think you really will need and use. Watch the video above for tips on how to downsize your beauty products.
However, if something does happen to your makeup or beauty supplies or you forget something, you can buy products at your destination.
Get our free printable makeup checklist here!
What are the best brow products for sparse eyebrows that you love right now? Share and comment below!
For more travel makeup, please read:
- The Best Non Smudge Eye Liner for Long Flights
- Best Long Lasting Lip Gloss for Travel
- Best Stick Foundation Options According to Our Readers
- Best Long-Lasting Concealers for Travel
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I can’t believe I missed this blog post. I’m going on a cruise in two weeks and have been on the hunt for a waterproof brow. Thank you!
Adding these to my list to try. I tend to use a brow pommade and brush, but this would certainly save a step (and be more packable).
Wow! Just found this post looking for how to enter the contest! Who knew?
I love it and thanks for the tips as always!!!
I use the IT Universal eyebrow pencil for years it’s the best! Thanks again for all the recommendations from you & readers. Safe travels!
It has always been such a difficulty to find a reliable and long-lasting brow pencil. Nothing is more frustrating than to notice halfway through the day that half your eyebrow has disappeared!
Thank you for the recommendations!
I love the L’oreal brow stylist defined. My tip. Is to always take a brand new eyebrow pencil on your trip. You can’t see how much is remaining in your current one.
I will check these out!
Thanks!
I love this review and thnak you for the recommendations
I use another maybelline eyebrow pencil but I think the micro blading pen looks like a better option. Thanks for all the ideas!
I’m also a fan of the NYX brow pen, but many days I also just use a darker powder and a small brush.
Some good options here! I also like the NYX brow pen. It never dries out and is easy to use.
I use Anastasia brow pencil for everyday, but bought Anastasia brow pen for my trip to Ireland after the above reviews and I loved it !! Even during the heat wave a few weeks ago! Thank you for the suggestions and reviews!
Thanks for doing the research. This has been my most frustrating makeup problem.
Great review, thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it, thank you for your feedback! ?