The Top 5 Best Practices for Perfectly Bold Brows

Misty Spinney
Jun 23, 2016

Ladies, we live in the golden era of natural beauty. From full eyebrows to the no-makeup makeup look, it has never been more popular to embrace what your mama gave you and flaunt your flawless self. What’s even more exciting about this fuss-free trend is that it works for everyone, because it’s all about little enhancements to your everyday look. Second up in our beauty breakdown series, we present to you the top five brow practices you should add to your beauty bank so you can achieve those bold and beautiful arches that say “I woke up like this” instead of “I penciled these in.”

Step 1 – Don’t Be Intimidated by the Tools: There are so many different products to choose from between pencils, gels, wands, powders and fibers. Start off with something user friendly like a dual-sided pencil/gel wand. This baby goes on like a cream and finishes like a powder for a simple yet stunning look. My current obsession is the TrèStiQue Brow Pencil in Americano ($25).

Step 2 – Get the Right Hue: Most people assume that bold brows call for products that are a shade darker than normal, which is certainly an option. But if it is a natural bold brow you’re after, it’s best to keep the hue pretty true to the color of your roots.

Step 3 – Know Your Angles: You can determine the outline of your eyebrows by establishing a few guidelines using the end of your makeup brush with three angles.

Starting Point – From the outside of your nose straight up to your forehead — anything beyond that line you can tweeze, wax or just not accentuate.

Highest Point – From the outside of your nose through the center of your iris — this is where the arch of your eye should be accentuated.

Outer Edge – From the outside of your nose to the corner of your eye — anything on the outside of this could be tweezed or waxed, or have that be where your brow comes to the point.

Step 4 – Small Strokes, Not Hard Lines: The idea here is to make small strokes in the direction of your natural hair growth, rather than making harder, longer lines that tend to look more painted on.

Step 5 – Blend, Blend, Blend: It’s best to apply a gel with a mascara-like wand to set and blend the pencil strokes. The wand allows pigment to coat any hairs that may have been missed with the pencil.

Game-Changing Finishing Touch: Gently go over your brows once they’ve dried with a product-free mascara wand. This will soften the entire look, making your brow application look flawless.

You can see how subtle yet effective these techniques are once completed.

The Best Liquid Eyeliners To Combat Sweat, Tears, & Smearing

Some of us have sensitive tear ducts that seem to get triggered if the wind blows a little too hard — which can make it so tough for those of us who love a good liquid eyeliner. Suddenly, you look like you were just sobbing about a breakup, when in reality your allergies just got the best of you, leaving streaks of eyeliner and mascara.

However, it IS possible to find the best liquid eyeliner to wear that's long-lasting, waterproof, and perfectly pigmented. Skip the hard-to-grip and smudgy products for these 7 incredible options I found. Trust, you'll barely have to reapply them throughout the day, leaving your makeup flawless for hours and hours!

The Best Liquid Eyeliner Ever! 

Target

e.l.f. Expert Liquid Eyeliner (Set of 2)

This is virtually unheard of, but this is probably the best liquid eyeliner you're ever going to wear. 88% of Target's customers recommend it, feeling you're getting the best quality for your money. Though it doesn't have the highest long-lasting rating, it still gets the job done when wearers need it to.

What are customers saying about it?

e.l.f. Cosmetics

From Target:

  • "i got this eyeliner like a few months ago and let me tell you its the best eyeliner I've ever got, its so easy to apply and good for beginners and STAYS ALL DAY."
  • "goes on easily and dries with no cracks to create a flawless look"
  • "I've used this liquid eyeliner for years- really can't beat the price!"

From e.l.f. Cosmetics:

  • "It's a good liner but it does fade after about four hours so you have to touch it up."
  • "It's a great eyeliner especially for hooded eyes."
  • "I have tried many and these just seem to stay put and stay smooth for a long time over so many other brands."

Amazon

NYX Epic Ink Liner

There's a reason why this is considered the best liquid eyeliner on Amazon. It's the overall pick as it's been purchased over 30,000 times and has a 4.5 rating! Also, Amazon noted it's something most customers keep which speaks volumes. So, what makes it so great?

It's a matte, waterproof formula that's going to give you a long-lasting effect and it has a super short precision tip to make your lines look on point. Whether you're going for a cat-eye look or something to complete your Halloween costume, this is your best bet!

Other Popular Liquid Eyeliners

Amazon

Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Pen No-Skip Eyeliner

Aside from NYX's Epic Ink Liner, Maybelline's liquid eyeliner is another popular pick on Amazon. It has a similar precise tip that ensures it'll glide on easily — even if your hand isn't the steadiest. It's also hooded eye-friendly (IYKYK) which should bring a sigh of relief to anyone who's tired of seeing smudged eye makeup.

Amazon

Stila Deluxe Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

This Stila waterproof liquid eyeliner is perfect for all-day wear! You can create so many looks, from lightly outlining your eyes to packing on the drama. Plus, Amazon customers love how this eyeliner allows them to get "super smooth, fine lines" with "no smudging or bleeding." Incredible!

Sephora

Glossier Pro Tip

Can I get a little commotion for his vegan liquid eyeliner? It's totally gonna become another beauty staple soon. It's easy to use and has a buildable formula that doesn't waste time drying. Did I mention it's also long-lasting? In the words of my favorite social media sound, "You better get one of these!"

Sephora

Anastasia Beverly Hills Waterproof Matte Liquid Eyeliner

It seems like the top-rated liquid eyeliners have one thing in common: they're waterproof. And this option from Anastasia Beverly Hills is no exception to that! Plus, this one claims to be highly-pigmented — which doesn't seem like a reach if you know how good Anastasia Beverly Hills' products are.

P.S. There's no parabens, phthalates, or mineral oils in it.

Sephora

One/Size by Patrick Starr Point Made Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Rounding this list out is this amazingly vegan liquid eyeliner by One/Size! I've already made a case for their setting spray so it doesn't surprise me that this makes other customers happy too. It glides on super smooth and fits comfortably in your hand so you won't experience a classic case of butter fingers when applying it.

It's also free of the following:

  • Parabens
  • Formaldehydes
  • Formaldehyde-releasing agents
  • Phthalates
  • Mineral oil
  • Retinyl palmitate
  • Oxybenzone
  • Coal tar
  • Hydroquinone
  • Triclocarban
  • Triclosan

Follow us on Pinterest for more beauty finds, tips, and tricks!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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6 "Overrated" Hair Products I Won't Buy Again In 2025

I've been thinking about how much money I spent on things I didn't love — like overrated beauty finds — and I have a few hair products that met their untimely fate in my garbage. I wanted to love them because of the brand, but some of them were unnecessary based on price or the formula not agreeing with my coils. Regardless, there are a handful of products I definitely wouldn't buy again this year. And while some of them may work for you, here are all the overrated hair products I just cannot recommend.

Scroll to see all the overrated hair products I definitely regret buying.

Sephora

Overrated Prices

1. Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil

This is one of those hair products where the formula actually works well. I loved how silky it felt on my hands and it provided my hair with amazing shine. However, I also receive the same effect from Carol's Daughter Goddess Strength 7 Oil Blend... without dishing out $30.

My hair's not super picky about oils I use, so I personally don't feel like I need to spend a certain amount just because one brand name is more popular than another.

Sephora

2. Briogeo Don't Despair, Repair! Super Moisture Conditioner

I purchased this conditioner and fell in love with how soft it made my hair. All it took was two dime size amounts worked into my strands for my hair to let me know it truly appreciated it. The problem is that it costs $39.00! It was definitely a splurge at the time I bought it, but I can't see myself spending that amount every other month.

My alternative is 4U by Tia Moisturizing Conditioner.

Sephora

Overrated Performance

3. dae Mirage Mist Leave-In Conditioner

This leave-in conditioner left me wanting more because my hair absolutely hated it. It's meant for all hair types, but it just didn't do anything for mine. Instead of reducing frizz and dryness, my hair actually felt hard after using it. Before you think it was user error, I purposely didn't put anything else on my hair after washing it.

I don't think I need to say it, but my little test resulted in this being tossed in the trash. I'll just stick to my 4U by Tia Curl Refresher Mist Hair Spray if I want an extra boost of hydration and shine.

Amazon

4. Wavytalk Professional Hair Dryer With Diffuser

This is going to be controversial because I've been talking about spending too much money on styling and conditioning products, but I actually prefer the T3 Aire 360 Multi-Styler & Blowout System over this. I have thick natural hair that felt like it was being yanked whenever I used this dryer's comb attachment. I've experienced postpartum hair loss so I'd like to keep as many strands on my head as possible.

Personally, the T3 Aire Multi-Styler & Blowout System cuts my drying time in half while also providing a soothing experience.

Sephora

Overrated Fragrance — Yes, I'm Serious

5. Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliation Shampoo

Am I being picky about something like fragrance? Why yes, I am. I'm fully aware that I have allergies and asthma so it doesn't take much for something to trigger an itchy nose or claustrophobic airwaves. Also, at this point I know I probably should just stay away from Briogeo as a whole.

I digress... I tried this shampoo and should've known better than to use something that reminds me of the charcoal face wash I use sometimes. It also smells like it which is a huge turn-off for me. Hard pass on this!

Sephora

6. Gisou Honey Infused Hair Perfume — Floral Edition

I think a part of me liked wasting money last year because this hair perfume gave me the ick last year. I don't even like floral scents so I'm not sure why I decided this purchase would be a great idea. I'm sure someone will love the blend of honey, wild rose, and vanilla, but I did not.

If you tried overrated hair products last year, stop by our storefront to see what I actually recommend using!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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Eyeshadow Sticks Are Our New Obsession, And They Should Be Yours Too

ICYMI, eyeshadow sticks are trending upwards lately, and it’s for good reason. Not only are the sticks super practical (Hello simple application!), but you can apply your latest eye look on the go and with ease. After all – who has room for an entire eyeshadowpalette and brushes in their bag? Not us!

If you’re thinking “OMG I must add this to my makeup routine,” we totally relate. Nowadays you can find eyeshadow sticks just about anywhere, but we’ve rounded up our faves to give you the best glam ever.

Laura Mercier RoseGlow Caviar Stick Eye Shadow ($32)

With over 2,000 five star reviews, it’s no wonder this eyeshadow stick makes the list. If you’re looking for a little glitz, creamy shadow is guaranteed to give you a fabulous look that lasts all day long.

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick ($32)

If simplicity is in your nature, then you need to check out Bobbi Brown’s nude shadow collection. Not only do they have tons of color options, but their formula is built to last through all of your day in the life shenanigans.

elf NO BUDGE SHADOW STICK ($5)

Yes, you read that right. Get one of the best shadow sticks on the market for only $5.

about-face Shadowstick ($14)

If you’re looking for a great white eyeshadow, then look no further. about-face’s Oxide Shadowstick will definitely give you the bright, clean look you’re going for.

IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Longwear Eyeshadow Stick ($25)

This super blendable eyeshadow stick glides onto your lids without tugging on your delicate eye area, and is available in matte and pearl finishes. Sounds like a win-win to us.

Nudestix Magnetic Eye Color ($27)

We’ll be channeling our fave nepo baby (yes, we do mean Sofia Richie Grainge) with this product.

Sephora Collection Sephora Colorful® Waterproof Eyeshadow & Eyeliner Multi-Stick ($14)

There are so many fabulous colors to choose from in this collection. BRB while we go buy them all. 💸

Iconic London Glaze Dual Ended Eyeshadow Crayon ($30)

Get 2-in-1 with this stunning eyeshadow duo. No more lugging around eyeshadow palettes for you!

Are you all about bold makeup or prefer keeping things clean and simple? Let us know in the comments below!

Discover all the latest beauty trends with Brit + Co.

Image courtesy of Gustavo Almeida / PEXELS.

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I Rewatched 'Bridgerton' Season 1 & I Have SO Many Thoughts

It was December 2020, right at the height of the COVID pandemic. Everyone was stuck at home in their sweatpants with nothing to do but scroll the never-ending sea of streaming content (or was that just me?). All of a sudden, viewers were swept from their homes to a world of the Regency-era elite. That is, the Shonda Rhimes remix, of course. Since then, everyone, and I mean everyone, has been obsessed with and captivated by the stories of those who walk 19th century Grosvenor Square in London, including myself. It doesn’t feel like it, but Bridgerton has reached its 4 year anniversary, and to celebrate I rewatched the season that started it all.

Here are 13 thoughts I had during my Bridgerton season 1 rewatch while Daphne and the Duke burned for each other.


1. Colin and Anthony have always been the best men on the show.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

The Bridgerton family certainly knows how to raise ‘em. Colin is loyal to a fault and provides unwavering support to his sisters, and Anthony is an all-around genuine man that will go out of his way for anyone he loves. Need I say more?

2. ​Duke Hastings hating his dad is so fair.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

After a second rewatch, I hate the Duke’s dad more. You’re telling me he couldn't care less about his wife in the midst of delivering his child? The man is cold and heartless, and how could you not think so after a second round of viewing when they flashback to little Simon – particularly after gaining a deeper understanding of Simon?

3. Penelope as Lady Whistledown is not so surprising the second time around.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

Excuse my ignorance, but I never saw Penelope dropping her secret that she is the Lady Whistledown, at least the first time around. After a second viewing, all the signs were there, and I was shaking my head at my past self.

4. Is this a feminist show?!

Netflix

We’ve got Sarah giving birth and dying to give a man what he wants, and then having a room full of women saddened by the very event, juxtaposed with a shot of the men cheering. After a rewatch, I have to say, the show portrays strong women all while highlighting the inequalities they faced at the time.

I didn’t catch it the first time around,, but the show truly leans on the women to drive the narrative and I never found myself particularly swayed by any one man. It’s refreshing to see how Bridgerton empowers its female characters, allowing them to challenge societal norms and assert their independence, which makes it feel like a modern feminist take on the past. Go Bridgerton!

5. ​I’ve learned quite a lot from Bridgerton.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

While the show may not be entirely accurate, it had me Googling things non-stop the second time around. I’d like to share my learnings: things get pretty spicy in Bridgerton (it’s a show about courtship after all) so I couldn't help but wonder, did women shave their legs in 1813? Well, I looked it up so you don’t have to, and the answer is no! It wasn’t common at all. Boxing, however, was a thing back then. Who knew? Not me. And Queen Charlotte having a Pomeranian? Totally normal, the real Queen Charlotte had many that she absolutely adored.

6. ​Simon is a man for the woman.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

I love Simon, there, I said it! He is so kind and understanding of Daphne and defended her furiously any chance he got, even during the time of their "fake" courtship, proving he’s everything and more for her. After a second rewatch, the flashback scene of his birth, and his mother’s death, destroyed me – it’s that very scene that reveals he’s burdened by childhood trauma. His guilt-stricken face highlights his determination to never become like his father. In the end, Simon’s struggles show a man who strives not to repeat his past – especially with Daphne. Sigh, Simon it was never your fault.

7. ​Simon and Daphne are a slowburn.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

I’ll admit, I thought there was a lack of chemistry between Daphne and Simon the first go around. After my second time watching, their chemistry is impeccable and they compliment each other so well. I’m actually wondering how I ever thought the way I did beforehand?

8. This season perfectly sets up the forthcoming romance between Penelope and Colin.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

The gestures, the flirting, and the little moments the writers gifted us, oh so well done.

9. ​The world build-up is so critical.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

The first season of Bridgerton so beautifully captures the magical ride fans, unbeknownst to them at the time, are about to take in following seasons. We get acquainted with all of the Bridgerton kids, are introduced to the ensuing rivalry between the Featheringtons and Bridgertons, and last but certainly not least, we learn the rigid societal expectations of the 19th century, particularly through Daphne’s experience of finding a suitor. This season is so critical in laying it all out for viewers.

10. ​This is Eloise’s best season.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

I love Eloise, she says what everyone's thinking and isn’t afraid to stick up to men. Amen, sister. Dare I say her banter with her sisters and others carried this season?

11. ​The writing is *chef’s kiss.*

Liam Daniel/Netflix

The romance that gradually develops between Daphne and Simon allows viewers to not only connect with them, but provides a deeper look into the sibling dynamics within the Bridgerton family. The cherry on top of it all is the chaos of everyone and everything else ensuing while a mysterious gossip columnist generates tension throughout the entire season – what’s not to love?

12. ​There is no way no one caught on to Madame Delacroix.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

The fake accent wasn’t fooling me even the first time around, but I guess kudos to her for not being caught by her important clients.

13. ​Jonathan Bailey. That's all.

Nick Briggs/Netflix

Kidding of course, I really do have something to say – After watching the later seasons he looks comparatively and especially young in the first. Maybe it’s because I’ve also watched Wicked (a few times) recently and he looks so much … older? Bailey was a cutie in the first season, and although he was a hard sell in the first two episodes, he sure did grow on me.

What's the wildest thought you had during a Bridgerton season 1 rewatch? Let us know on Facebook, and read up on the Bridgerton season 4 cast before it hits Netflix!

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Jennifer Lopez & Ben Affleck Just Finalized Their Divorce After 2 Years Of Marriage

Jennifer Lopez & Ben Affleck are officially divorced. Bennifer 2.0 gave both Ben and Jennifer a second shot at their love story after they got back together in July of 2021 (following the end of their previous engagement in 2003), but both TMZ and Page Six report that after just two years of marriage, the celebrity couple's divorce has been settled.

Keep reading for the latest news on Jennifer Lopez & Ben Affleck's divorce.

Jennifer Lopez & Ben Affleck have settled their divorce with no prenup.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

In addition to confirming the settlement, TMZ reports that both Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck will take what they earned individually throughout the time they were married — and neither will pay spousal support. Ben will also keep his stake in Artists Equity, the production company he created in 2022 with Matt Damon.

Divorce rumors first started swirling in May of 2024, when a source told InTouch Weekly that there was trouble in paradise. "The writing is on the wall – it’s over," the source says before adding, "They’re headed for a divorce – and for once, [Ben’s] not to blame!" Even though Ben and Jennifer love each other, the source believes they're just too different.

In June, the couple listed their home for sale(for $65 million), which only added to the rumor mill. And by the time August rolled around, TMZ reported that Jennifer Lopez had filed for divorce from Ben Affleck with no prenup. "The fairy tale she was promised turned out to be a nightmare in the end," a source told People. "She's in a really good place and just wants to close the door on this crazy chapter."

Jennifer Lopez also says she doesn't regret "one second."

In an conversation for Interview Magazine, comedian Nikki Glaser (who you'll recognize from her recent stint as this year's Golden Globes host) asked if she regretted any of the difficulties she experienced, and Jennifer Lopez responded with, "not one second." The 55-year-old also notes that growth is "a lifelong process."

"I think that’s what I love about life, that there’s no arrival point. There’s only getting better and growing if you want to," Jennifer continues. "It’s either growing or dying, and I don’t want to do the dying part. And yeah, there’s times when I thought I figured it out, and then life goes, 'Let’s send you another thing and see if you fall for it. Let’s see if you really have learned that lesson.' And I hadn’t."

But Jennifer Lopez adds that she'll only use those lessons to grow even more in the future. "I understand that now in a much deeper way, which doesn’t mean that I won’t make mistakes in the future, but again, when your whole house blows up, you’re standing there in the rubble going, 'How do I not ever let that happen again?' And then you start examining it little by little saying, 'Okay, I did this, this was my part in it, this was what I should have seen early on, this is what I didn’t look at.' Those things are what really are the lessons."

We're wishing Jennifer Lopez & Ben Affleck the best.

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