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Contour Pencils Are the Multi-Use Secret Weapon Your Makeup Routine Needs

One pencil—dozens of looks.

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Photo by Fabian Albert on Unsplash

Multi-use cosmetics can be a lifesaver when you’re traveling or are on the go. But they offer more benefits than lightening your load. A dual-sided mascara can amplify your lash look, while multi-sticks are beloved for enhancing both cheeks and lips. Contour pencils function similarly, providing several features in a slim and portable pencil format. The rise in multi-use makeup has recently brought these unique pencils into the spotlight. In a report by Cosmetics Design U.S., Shiyan Zering, senior beauty and personal care analyst at Mintel, noted that interest is growing for a simple reason: They provide versatility regardless of skill level. On TikTok, the one-pencil makeup hack trend tells a similar story. The trend seemed to have surfaced when one creator used a mauve-toned nude lip liner for her lips, eyes, cheeks and contour. While the result embraced the natural, no-makeup makeup look, Zering stated that these pencils can be used to create an edgy look with ease as well. Ready to try the trend? Below, see the best contour pencils for lips, eyes and more.

1 / 5

Tower 28 Beauty OneLiner Lip Liner + Eyeliner + Cheek Pencil ($15)

This pencil is perfect for nailing TikTok's one-pencil-makeup hack. They're designed to be used on the lips, eyes and cheeks. They also come in a range of complementary shades for every complexion. Soft pinks and rosy nudes are best for a light flush, while earthy browns add dimension and warmth to deeper skin tones.

BUY ON TOWER 28 - $15

BUY ON SEPHORA - $15

Tower 28 Beauty OneLiner Lip Liner + Eyeliner + Cheek Pencil ($15)
2 / 5

Makeup Forever Artist Color Pencil Eye, Brow & Lip Liner ($25)

Your hunt for the perfect brown lip liner ends here. With nine nuanced shades, ranging from taupe to milk chocolate to walnut and espresso, finding a pencil to perfect your lip look has never been easier. The formula is made for functional use and features a soft matte finish for a natural appearance. This makes it easy to move from lips to eyes and even works for brows, giving them a fluffy look.

BUY ON MAKEUP FOREVER - $25

BUY ON SEPHORA - $25

Makeup Forever Artist Color Pencil Eye, Brow & Lip Liner ($25)
3 / 5

Christian Louboutin Glamliner Lip & Eye Contour Pencil ($45)

While most of the pencils on this list stick to neutral colors, Christian Louboutin's Glamliner brings the drama with both natural and vibrant shades. This bold red can be used to line your lips, the rims of your eyes or even as an eyeshadow if you dare. The smooth formula is perfect for creating an ultra-saturated look, while also being buildable and blendable.

BUY NOW - $45

Christian Louboutin Glamliner Lip & Eye Contour Pencil ($45)
4 / 5

Revlon ColorStay Multi-Liner ($12)

If you're in a hurry, Revlon's multi-liner will become your new best friend. The drugstore brand's iconic lip liner is now available as a multi-liner. It doesn't just glide onto lips or smudge into lash lines. This creamy formula can also be used to contour, highlight and add dainty freckles if desired. It's also dual-sided, with a built-in brush for blending out harsh lines.

BUY ON ULTA - $12

BUY ON AMAZON - $9

Revlon ColorStay Multi-Liner ($12)
5 / 5

MANASI 7 Eye And Lip Definer ($28)

Precision is key when applying eyeliner, while a creamy formula is ideal for saturating the lips with color. Fortunately, this pencil has both. The classic wooden format ensures that the tip stays sharp for precise application and the formula, while blendable, offers a neutral matte finish. Plus, there are several unique statement-making shades, including a cashmere-like greige and rich burgundy.

BUY ON REVOLVE - $28

BUY ON MANASI7 - $32

MANASI 7 Eye And Lip Definer ($28)

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