Black Eyeliner vs. Brown Eyeliner At A Glance
• The shade that you pick can compliment your eye color.
• Black is classic, intense, and dramatic.
• Brown is great for a softer, fresh look.
• There are different formulas to suit your needs.
It seems that natutal makeup looks are a trend that is here to stay! Beauty brands are pumping out plenty of beautiful brown eyeliners, which sparks the debate between black and brown. Each have their own signifance in your makeup routine. I am breaking down the basics of black eyeliner vs. brown eyeliner to help you achieve your desired look.
The Basics
The good news is, no matter if you pick black eyeliner vs. brown eyeliner, each come in a variety of formulations. Pencils that are either sharpenable or retractible are great for your waterline, as well as smudging for a smoky effect. Liquid liners can come in the form of pens (brush tips and felt tips) as well as brushes that you dip into liquid. Liquids are better for precision work, especially on the eyelid.
Black Eyeliner Benefits
Black eyeliner will forever remain the standard, go-to color. Not surprising, as it is highly versatile for dramatic or subtle looks! Black will be your MVP when seeking depth and definition, even to define your lashes. Do you want to stand out and make a statement? Black has your back!
It is often used for a classic wing or smokey eye. The drama that you will achieve is hard to replicate with other shades. Black eyeliner is attractive because it is universally flattering for all eye color and skin tones. It works for all occasions.
My go-to black eyeliner is the Physicians Formula Eye Booster 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner and Serum in Ultra Black. wet n wild also has an equivalent. The tiny brush tip is amazing! You can see it in my Physicians Formula 2023 new products review. I highly recommend any liquid or pencil from both wet n wild and Physicians Formula.
Brown Eyeliner Benefits
Brown eyeliner is constantly growing in popularity for its softer, more natural look. Browns come in many different shades, so you should also consider dark brown eyeliner vs. black. Dark brown eyeliner should be worn by those with green and gray eyes, as well as those with fair skin and pink undertones.
Brown is ideal for a daily natural look, and it has the power to compliment specific eye colors. However, brown eyeliner is better for mature eyes. Opt for a softer brown or else you may age yourself.
Try it for an easy daytime look that you can smoke up for the evening. As an added bonus, brown can give your eyes the illusion of being fresh and awake in the daylight.
My favorite brown eyeliner is the wet n wild Breakup Proof Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Brown. The formula lasts all day, it is so precise and easy to apply, and the shade is just right. You can see it in action in my wet n wild 2024 new products review.
Choosing The Right Shade
The main difference between brown and black eyeliner is how each shade compliments your natural eye color. For brown eyes, you can pull off both shades! Brown tends to appear more harmonious, where as black adds depth.
For green eyes, you are also in luck! Both shades tend to work wonders for you as well. Brown eyeliner can bring out earthy tones, while black provides contrast.
For blue eyes, brown will be your best friend. It accentuates the blue tones to make them pop.
For hazel eyes, brown will pull out the natural golden flecks, so you may favor it more.
Application Tips & Tricks
No matter what you choose, get the most out of brown vs. black eyeliner with some effective tips and tricks!
Doing winged liner creates a dramatic look, as does tightlining. If you want to master the perfect wing, begin by creating a line from the inner corner. Gradually thicken it as you move toward the outer corner. Finish your wing with a sharp flick. Using a combination of black and brown can give you a gradient look. This is best done with liquid.
Grab a pencil to create a smudged look! Once applied to the eye, grab a smudging brush or sponge to gently diffuse the pigment. Applying a hint of eyeshadow over the smudged liner will give you depth. Hello smoky eyes in a flash!
All of this info should lead your mind to another thought or question… what about colored mascaras? Definitely try pairing your black or brown eyeliner with a corresponding mascara! I have been loving brown on brown for natural makeup.
Conclusion
In conclusion of black eyeliner vs. brown eyeliner, the debate comes down to the look that you want. Black is timeless and always in style, and it can provide a dramatic look. Brown is excellent for softer, natural looks. The color that you pick can be used to make your natural eye color pop! Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.
What is your go-to eyeliner color and why?
