Brow Pencil vs Brow Pomade: How to Choose

Now that your brow options are aplenty, let’s chat about how to choose between our Nourish & Define Brow Pomade and our NEW Nourish & Define Brow Pencil. 

They have the same name, and close to the same formula, so HOW are you supposed to pick? Keep reading for all the key differences, what we love most about each, and who each product works best for.   

NOURISH & DEFINE BROW PENCIL

A brow pencil is the longest-standing, easiest to use brow filer that’s great for beginners and pros alike. There’s almost no learning curve, and getting natural-looking brows is a cinch.

Why we love it

• It’s very easy to use.
• Fast application, perfect for those 5-minute face days.
• It’s an all-in-one filler, no separate applicator needed. 
• Precision application – can draw on thin, hair-like strokes.
• Lasts all day.
• Growth-activated - has one extra growth ingredient which adds stability to the harder formula + extra growth potential.
• Doubles as a growth-activated eyeliner.
• It’s refillable!
• Can be used with micro-bladed brows.  

Who it’s for

A pencil is great for those who already have brow hairs but want more shape, definition, and to fill in some sparse areas. And if you’re a brow filling newcomer, or only have 2 minutes in the morning, a brow pencil is for you.

Things to keep in mind

• It won’t last nearly as long as the pomade, however you can purchase refills without having to buy a new pencil.
• The formula is harder than the pomade – not as much product swipes on with such a light touch.

If you haven’t read it already, visit our in-depth blog on our new brow pencil for everything you need to know about choosing a shade, inserting refills, and applying with ease!

TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR PENCIL

Press gently

Though it’s less pigmented than the pomade, it’s still a high-impact brow product. Start with a gentle touch and decide if you need more pressure later. Less is always more!

Front of the brow

Fill in the front of the brow last once you’ve gotten comfortable with the pressure needed to achieve your desired look. Draw upward, hair-like strokes and blend with the spoolie for a faded-in, natural look.

Stock up on refills

To save on shipping and emissions, purchase a refill pack when you pick up your pencil. The pencil doesn’t last as long as the pomade, so having a back-up refill makes life a lot easier when you run out.

NOURISH & DEFINE BROW POMADE

The most versatile brow filler, a pomade can create any look from natural to Instagram brows. It takes slightly more time and a tiny bit of learning, but the results are worth it.

Why we love it  

• Gives brows a subtle hold in addition to shape and color.
• Very pigmented.
• A little goes a long way – the pomade will last a very long time.
• Can create any brow look under the sun.
• Growth-activated.
• Can draw thin lines or thick lines by turning the brush on its side.
• Can double as a growth-activated eyeliner.
• Lasts all day.
• Can be used with micro-bladed brows.

Who it’s for

Our Nourish & Define Brow Pomade works on everyone and can create any brow look. For those with very sparse or non-existent brows, you can use the pomade to draw in brows from scratch! And for those with already full brows, it works fabulously to add shape and definition. If you don’t mind the few extra minutes and the slight learning curve, you will love a brow pomade.

Things to keep in mind  

• It takes some practice to get the hang of it.
• There is a separate tool – it’s not an all-in-one product. However, you can purchase our pomade + brush as a kit.
• It can be a bit challenging in the beginning because it’s easy to apply too much. Use a very light touch and a tiny amount of product on the brush.
• The pomade will soon be refillable also! #Staytuned 

TIPS FOR GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR POMADE

A little goes a long way

We recommend brushing the color off your brush and onto your hand before applying to the brows. Remove almost all product from the brush, then start applying to your brows.

Practice, practice, practice

A pomade can take a bit of practice, but once you’ve nailed it – we promise, you’ll fall in love. 

The brush matters

Make sure you have a quality, dual-ended angled brush to apply your pomade with – it makes all the difference! Our pomade comes with or without our dual-ended, vegan brush. You can also buy the brush separately if yours is on its last legs.

WHEN TO BUY BOTH 

If you're a bonafide brow gal and want the ease of a pencil, plus the versatility of a pomade, you may need to gift yourself them both! And that's ok, because 'tis the season for brows that #sleigh! And we'll find an excuse for every other season ;) 

TIPS TO #SLEIGHALLWAY WITH EITHER BROW PRODUCT

Embrace imperfection

Even the most amazing brows on this planet don’t look perfect all the time. Everyone has some spaces between hairs, hairs growing in different directions, etc. When you’re working with a brow product, start with a very small amount and use the spoolie to direct hairs into your desired shape. Add more as you go, but avoid filling in every single small gap or creating a too-perfect outline.

Go with your natural shape

Whether straight across or high-arched, everyone is born with the brow shape that suits their face the best! When applying any brow product, follow your natural shape rather than trying to imitate someone else's. Visit our blog on Brow Shape & Shade for more on this topic! 

Pick the right shade

The most common problem for brow newcomers is picking the wrong shade. It's common to choose a shade that’s too dark or not neutral enough, which can make brows look too intense. Our tip: pick one shade lighter than your natural hair color. If you can’t decide, send us a selfie by email or Instagram DM anytime and we’ll find your perfect match!

For more shade selection guidance, and to see every shade on many different ladies, read our blog! 

Start in the middle

Start your application along the top arch of your brow, drawing an outline. Then outline the bottom arch and move on to filling in the middle of the brow. Fill in the front of the brow last once you’ve used up the majority of the color on your brush. Use gentle, upward motions at the front of the brow for subtle definition without that block brow look! Use the spoolie to soften any harsh lines.

Brush brows first

Before applying, use the spoolie to brush brows into place. We recommend brushing brows upward and outward to get that full, but groomed look.

Pluck strays after

Of course, if your brows haven’t been shaped in a while, groom them first. But if it’s just a few arid hairs, create your shape first, then pluck the stray hairs after. Some of those strays might actually help with your overall brow shape (and you’ll see this once you start outlining). Once you're done filling, say goodbye to any strays that lay outside of your created shape.

Consistency = growth

While both the pencil and pomade are not quite as potent as our Lash & Brow Enhancing Serum, you will still see noticeable growth if you use them consistently! The more you wear them, the quicker you’ll see results. Make sure to apply over the sparse areas where you really want to see additional growth!

______________________________

For more help on shaping and filling your brows, read our blog The Top 10 Most Common Brow Mistakes You Might Be Making!

Thanks for tuning in Pluminati! Can’t wait to see your Plumified brows on Instagram <3

-The Plume Team xo