Finding the best waterproof eyebrow pencil for oily skin can feel like an endless struggle.
Many products claim to be waterproof and smudge-proof, but few hold up against oil and sweat throughout the day.
🏆Top Pick: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz
The Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz stands out as the top choice for oily skin.
Its ultra-slim, retractable design with a fine tip allows for precise, natural, hair-like strokes, giving you perfectly defined brows.
The waterproof and smudge-proof formula is highly durable, making it ideal for long days or humid conditions.
Its wide range of shades ensures you’ll find a perfect match for your hair color and skin tone.
While it’s a premium product, its long-lasting performance and polished finish make it worth the investment.
For those seeking professional-level results with the confidence that their brows will stay put all day. See why this pencil is the gold standard!
For those with oily skin, choosing the right eyebrow pencil isn’t just about looks—it’s about staying power.
A high-quality waterproof eyebrow pencil can keep your brows looking sharp and defined, no matter how busy or humid your day gets.
In this article, we’ll explore the best waterproof eyebrow pencils for oily skin and share tips on how to find the perfect match for your needs.
Top Choices for Best Waterproof Eyebrow Pencil for Oily Skin
Finding an eyebrow pencil that works for oily skin can be tough. Here are five highly-rated waterproof options, each with their standout features, pros, and cons.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz
This ultra-slim retractable pencil is designed with a fine tip that makes it easy to create precise, natural, hair-like strokes. Its waterproof and smudge-proof formula lasts all day, even in humid conditions or on oily skin. I love how it offers a polished, professional finish and comes in a wide range of shades to match any hair color.
- Pros: Mimics natural brow hairs effortlessly, available in a wide range of shades, long-lasting wear.
- Cons: Higher price point compared to drugstore options.
NYX Professional Makeup Micro Brow Pencil
With its fine tip and built-in spoolie brush, this pencil is perfect for creating detailed, natural-looking brows. Its waterproof and smudge-resistant formula performs exceptionally well, even on oily skin. I love how it combines excellent performance with a budget-friendly price, making it an ideal option for everyday use.
- Pros: Affordable, easy to use, creates detailed strokes for a natural look.
- Cons: Limited shade range compared to other premium brands.
Benefit Cosmetics Precisely, My Brow Pencil
This pencil features an ultra-fine tip that allows for precise, hair-like strokes, making it great for filling in sparse brows. Its waterproof and long-wearing formula ensures your brows stay defined all day. I love how easy it is to achieve sharp, professional results, even for someone with oily skin.
- Pros: Highly pigmented, great for sparse brows, comes in a variety of shades.
- Cons: Can feel slightly waxy on application.
L’Oréal Paris Brow Stylist Definer
This mechanical pencil offers an ultra-fine tip for precision application and a waterproof, smudge-resistant formula. I love how smooth and easy it is to use while providing excellent definition. It’s also a reliable, affordable option for those looking for a drugstore solution.
- Pros: Affordable, easy to find, smooth application.
- Cons: May require touch-ups for extremely oily skin.
Maybelline Express Brow Ultra Slim Defining Eyebrow Pencil
Designed with a 1.5mm ultra-slim tip and a built-in spoolie brush, this pencil ensures precise and natural-looking application. Its waterproof formula is lightweight yet durable, making it ideal for oily skin. I love how it delivers long-lasting results without breaking the bank, making it a fantastic everyday option.
- Pros: Precise application, lightweight design, long-lasting wear.
- Cons: Shade range could be expanded.
How to Choose the Right Eyebrow Pencil for You
Skin Type
For oily skin, a waterproof and smudge-proof eyebrow pencil is essential to keep your brows intact all day.
If you have sensitive skin, hypoallergenic formulas with nourishing ingredients like vitamin E are ideal for avoiding irritation.
Shade Matching
Match your brow pencil shade to your hair color for natural results.
Blondes should go one to two shades darker, brunettes can match or go lighter, and redheads or those with gray hair should consider auburn or taupe tones.
Tip Design
Ultra-fine tips are perfect for precision and creating hair-like strokes.
Angled or thicker tips work well for quick applications and bold brows.
Choose a design that matches your preferred brow style.
Dual-Ended Design
Look for eyebrow pencils with a built-in spoolie brush.
This tool helps blend the product for a natural finish while shaping and taming unruly brows.
Formula
Wax-based formulas provide excellent hold and tame thick brows, while creamy formulas are great for beginners and blend easily.
Powdery options create a soft, natural finish for subtle looks.
Durability and Wear
Choose long-lasting, waterproof formulas for oily skin and active lifestyles.
Products labeled “sweat-resistant” or “24-hour wear” are perfect for all-day reliability.
Budget
Premium brands like Anastasia Beverly Hills offer superior features, but drugstore options like Maybelline provide great performance at an affordable price.
Pick what suits your needs and wallet.
Ease of Removal
Opt for waterproof pencils that are easy to remove with a standard makeup remover.
This ensures hassle-free cleanup without irritating your skin.
Application Tips for Long-Lasting Brows on Oily Skin
Achieving long-lasting brows on oily skin can be tricky, but with the right approach, your brows will stay flawless all day. These tips ensure your waterproof eyebrow pencil and other products work to their full potential.
Prep Your Skin
Start by cleansing your face to remove oil and residue. Apply a mattifying primer around your brows to create a smooth base and control excess shine. Prepping ensures your waterproof and smudge-proof eyebrow pencil adheres better, delivering a longer-lasting look.
Choose the Right Product
Select a high-quality, waterproof eyebrow pencil designed for oily skin. Look for options labeled sweat-resistant or humidity-proof. Pair it with a fiber-infused or tinted eyebrow gel for added fullness and hold. This combination is ideal for brows that won’t budge throughout the day.
Apply with Precision
Use a fine-tip or ultra-slim eyebrow pencil to create hair-like strokes for a natural look. Work in light, feathery motions to avoid over-applying. Precision is key for shaping brows that appear full but not overly drawn.
Set Your Brows
After applying your eyebrow pencil, use a translucent setting powder or a tinted gel to lock everything in place. This extra step ensures your brows stay smudge-proof and reduces the impact of excess oil on your makeup.
Avoid Touching Your Brows
Throughout the day, keep your hands away from your brows. The natural oils from your fingers can break down waterproof formulas and cause smudging. Keeping your brows healthy and intact starts with avoiding unnecessary contact.
Midday Touch-Ups
Carry blotting papers or translucent powder for quick touch-ups during the day. If you notice any shine around your brow area, gently blot it away without disturbing your makeup. This is an easy way to maintain your look.
Remove with Care
At the end of the day, use a gentle, oil-based makeup remover to dissolve waterproof eyebrow products. Avoid harsh scrubbing to keep your brow area healthy and irritation-free. Proper removal ensures you’re ready for flawless application the next day.
Can waterproof eyebrow pencils cause irritation?
Most waterproof eyebrow pencils are safe for daily use, but those with sensitive skin should opt for hypoallergenic or dermatologist-tested formulas. Look for products that are free from harsh chemicals and enriched with soothing ingredients like chamomile or aloe to minimize the risk of irritation.
How do I remove waterproof eyebrow pencils effectively?
Waterproof eyebrow pencils require an oil-based makeup remover to break down the formula without scrubbing. Apply the remover to a cotton pad, hold it over your brows for a few seconds, and gently wipe away the product. This ensures thorough removal while keeping your skin healthy.
Are there vegan and cruelty-free waterproof eyebrow pencils?
Yes, many brands offer vegan and cruelty-free options. Products from brands like NYX and Anastasia Beverly Hills include high-performance, animal-friendly choices. Always check the product label or the brand’s website to confirm their cruelty-free status.
Do waterproof pencils work on sparse or thick brows?
Waterproof eyebrow pencils work well on all brow types. For sparse brows, use a fine-tip pencil to create hair-like strokes for a natural look. For thick brows, opt for a pencil that defines and shapes while providing long-lasting hold. Pairing with a brow gel can enhance results.
Can waterproof eyebrow pencils last all day on oily skin?
Yes, most high-quality waterproof eyebrow pencils are designed to last all day on oily skin. To maximize wear time, prep your skin with a mattifying primer, choose a smudge-proof formula, and set your brows with a translucent powder or brow gel. These steps help prevent product breakdown from oil and sweat.
Choosing the right waterproof eyebrow pencil is essential for achieving long-lasting, smudge-proof brows, especially if you have oily skin. The right product not only enhances your look but also stays put through heat, humidity, and busy days.
Experiment with the recommended pencils and techniques to find the best match for your needs. Whether you prioritize precision, affordability, or durability, the perfect eyebrow pencil is out there waiting for you.
We’d love to hear from you! Share your favorite waterproof eyebrow products or tips in the comments. Your feedback and recommendations could help others in their journey to flawless, long-lasting brows.
Claudia Faucher is a full-time fitness training expert and lifestyle blogger. She is also been a certified Les Mills BodyPump instructor for the past 5 years and a fitness instructor for over 20 years. Claudia is a personal trainer and creates fitness training programs for seniors and people of all ages. She likes to use her skills and experiences to help others on their fitness journeys.
Last update on 2025-01-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API