Even though my arsenal of brow products might not be as "exciting" as other makeup staples in my routine—like my stack of glitter eye shadows, for instance—I can't imagine doing a full face of makeup without one of my favorite trusted brow pencils (followed by a quick swipe of clear brow gel, duh).
I'm a self-proclaimed minimalist when it comes to my arches, and I personally prefer a pencil when it comes to adding a hint of "oomph" and definition to my brows. I definitely don't have Lucy Hale–caliber brows by any means, but most of my friends and family members do, by now, ask me for recommendations when it comes to the best tools. And nine times out of 10, I point them to waterproof eyebrow pencils, as I've found them to have the best no-budge staying power regardless of what you throw at them—sweat, water, 100-degree heat… anything!
Obviously, there are a lot of waterproof eyebrow pencils out there, but there are only a handful that I've tried and routinely foist onto my friends. The best of all time, in my opinion, is Benefit's ultra-famous Precisely, My Brow Pencil Waterproof Eyebrow Definer (more on that one below), but there are a few other standout options I've gotten people hooked on. Below, 11 beauty-editor-approved waterproof eyebrow pencils that will never (ever) let you down. Keep scrolling!
Benefit Cosmetics Precisely, My Brow Pencil Waterproof Eyebrow Definer
At this point, I've lost count of how many times I've seen celebs and beauty people whip out this best-selling waterproof eyebrow pencil from their makeup bags. It has a nearly solid five-star rating at Sephora (and over five thousand reviews!), and the brand has even debuted it in a travel-handy mini size. It comes in 12 shades (bless), and the ultra-fine tip ensures each and every stroke looks as hairlike—and therefore as natural—as possible. Plus, it will wear perfectly for at least 12 hours but probably more. You can't go wrong, and it's the brow pencil all of my closest friends swear by.
L'Oréal Paris Brow Stylist Definer Waterproof Eyebrow Pencil
If you're looking to spend less without sacrificing your waterproof results, I can't recommend this drugstore-found pencil enough. It has a flattering matte finish and a super-fine tip that's V similar to Benefit's holy-grail pick.
Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Eyebrow Liner
Thrive Causemetics might be better known for its IG-famous mascara, but this waterproof eyebrow liner deserves kudos too! Each of the five hues instantly shade-matches your natural brow color, and thanks to the pencil's built-in moisturizing ingredients, your natural brows will grow in fuller and healthier to boot.
Shiseido Brow Ink Trio Pencil, Powder, Brush
Who doesn't love a multitasking beauty product? This three-in-one waterproof eyebrow pencil from Shiseido is both a personal and celebrity-makeup-artist favorite. Together, the pencil, powder, and brush ensure you get the customized brows of your dreams.
Chantecaille Waterproof Brow Definer
In case you haven't noticed, we're big Chantecaille fans over here. It's a splurge, but we love the triangular-shaped tip for the perfect, brow-fluffing strokes, and the innovative waterproof formula uniquely blends all of the best benefits of a pencil, wax, and powder, so you're getting the best of all worlds.
Revlon ColorStay Brow Pencil
Another budget-friendly option I love! Use the super-blendable pencil to shape and fill your arches to your heart's content and then relish in 24 hours of budge- and waterproof wear.
Sephora Collection Waterproof Retractable Brow Pencil
Sephora's in-house makeup collection doesn't get nearly the amount of love and credit it deserves, in my opinion. In fact, just like Benefit's cult-favorite pencil, this one comes in an array of 12 natural-looking shades, and it has a micro tip for seamless filling wherever your brows run sparse.
Urban Decay Brow Blade Waterproof Eyebrow Pencil & Ink Stain
Sure, this favorite from Urban Decay has an A+ waterproof pencil on one side, but it also has an ink-stain brush on the other for microblading-esque precision. So brilliant.
E.l.f. Cosmetics Instant Lift Waterproof Brow Pencil
A $4 brow pencil that's this good honestly feels like stealing. With a superfine tip for precise strokes; a creamy, smudge-resistant formula; and a dual-sided, retractable design, this waterproof pencil truly ticks every box. The shades themselves are also perfectly cool-toned to effortlessly fuse to your natural brows. It's win after win with this one!
Chanel Stylo Sourcils Waterproof Eyebrow Pencil
She's a pretty penny, but she's worth it. The slanted edge allows you to draw precise, hairlike strokes and shade with the flat edge for a brow-powder effect. The result? A sophisticated, elevated finish only Chanel can deliver.
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Eyebrow Pencil
The shade range here is on point! Instead of offering four or five general hues, Bobbi Brown's refillable, long-wear pencil comes in 10 gorgeous pigments that truly match your individual brow hairs. (After all, everyone's brows are unique!) You're bound to find one that looks oh so natural, made even more so by the fluffy, built-in spoolie.
More Brow Staples I'm Always Recommending
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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