With a 10-shade selection that includes gray, blonde, and taupe, Kosas’ Brow Pop Dual Action-Defining Brow Pencil is one of Crispen’s go-tos. Along with the brow product’s triangular tip, which makes it easy to create natural, hair-like strokes, Crispen favors its vegan formula. “It includes castor oil and provitamin B5, which are known to support healthy brow growth,” she says. Pro tip: Crispen recommends using a little brow gel to add more volume. Her pick is the Kosas Air Brow.
- Key Ingredients: Castor oil, provitamin B5
- Shades: 10
Frequently asked questions
What is the best eyebrow pencil for sparse eyebrows?
It all comes down to tip size, according to pro makeup artist Brielle Pollara. “Ultra-fine pencils like Benefit Cosmetics’ Precisely, My Brow are perfect for sparse brows,” she says. “They allow you to recreate individual hairs, filling gaps while keeping the look soft and realistic.” But keep in mind: Application technique is just as important as the product itself.
Pollara suggests applying small, hair-like strokes along the brows’ natural growth pattern, then using a spoolie brush to diffuse any harsh lines. “This technique ensures brows appear fuller without looking drawn-on,” she says. “This is essential for older skin that has less natural density.”
Should an eyebrow pencil be lighter or darker than your hair?
“Generally, you want to match your hairline to your brows,” says makeup artist Kelly Crispen. “However, for a flattering, soft-focus effect as you age, I recommend ‘sizing down’ one shade.” For instance, those with dark brunette hair may experiment with a brow pencil that’s one shade lighter, like a medium brown. “And if you are a dark blonde, consider a soft taupe,” Crispen says. As with nearly any makeup tip, there are exceptions to this rule. “Seasons can dictate intensity!” Cispen says. “The holidays are a perfect time to experiment with going one shade darker for a bold, party-glam brow.”
How to apply a brow pencil to older skin
Before applying makeup, prep your skin. “Don’t forget to focus on brow hydration!” Crispen says. “For mature skin, keeping the brow area moisturized is key. I recommend applying a drop of argan oil to the brows at bedtime so you wake up with soft, conditioned, and fresh brows that are ready for makeup.”
To use the brow pencil, Schoen recommends the following steps:
- Using only the finest point of your tool, barely graze the skin with a light “flick” to build density where needed.
- Continue this delicate layering until you achieve a refined fullness.
- To finish, sweep a spoolie brush through the hairs to seamlessly diffuse any edges.
“If the skin has lost some elasticity, holding it taut will provide the necessary tension for a smoother application,” Schoen adds.
Et, voila: The brows are set, and it’s time to complete your eye makeup routine. That may involve eyeliner, mascara, eyeshadow, a concealer, or any other products that flatter aging features.
While testing brow pencils to determine which formulas work best for older women, Glamour editors considered the ingredients, pigmentation, and longevity of each brow pencil. From a pile of dozens, we selected six standout formulas that delivered in all three categories—and had rousing endorsements from the pros below.
- Robin Schoen, a professional makeup artist and celebrity and editorial beauty expert
- Michele Holmes, an eyebrow shaping expert and owner of Michele Holmes Studio
- Kelly Crispen, a makeup artist at Ayla in San Francisco
- Alexa Persico, a makeup artist and founder of Alexa Persico Cosmetics
- Brielle Pollara, a celebrity, bridal, and editorial makeup artist
