Hey there! So I’ve been trying out this COVERGIRL Perfect Blend Eyeliner Pencil in Black Brown, and I thought I’d share my REAL thoughts about it based on both my experience and what tons of other users have said. Let’s get into it!
First Impressions
When I first got this pencil, I noticed it’s pretty standard looking – nothing fancy, just your classic pencil eyeliner with a smudger tip on the other end. The packaging is simple (and yes, it may vary as they mention). At around $3-4, it’s definitely budget-friendly compared to those $20 high-end liners.
The Color: Black Brown – What to Expect
Let’s talk about this shade because there seems to be some confusion. “Black Brown” is EXACTLY what it sounds like – a very dark brown that sometimes reads more black than brown depending on your lighting and skin tone.
Several users mentioned they were expecting a lighter brown, so if you want something softer, you might want to look at their “Mink” or “Taupe” options instead. For reference, some users with NW50 (MAC) or darker skin tones found this to be perfect for a subtle daytime look.
Application Experience
Texture & Feel
Most users (myself included) find this applies pretty smoothly, especially for a drugstore pencil. It’s not as buttery as Urban Decay (as one reviewer pointed out), but for the price, it’s impressive.
Some people did mention that their pencils felt dry and “skippy” – I noticed this happens more with older pencils or if you haven’t sharpened them recently.
The Smudge Tip
THIS is what makes this pencil stand out! The foam tip on the end is PERFECT for blending out harsh lines. Unlike some newer versions that have rubber tips, this sponge tip actually works well. It’s great for creating a smoky effect or just softening your line.
Staying Power
This is where opinions get mixed:
- Many long-term users swear this lasts ALL DAY and doesn’t smudge
- Others say it starts to fade or smear after a few hours
From my experience and what I’ve gathered, it really depends on:
- Your eye shape (monolid users reported more smudging)
- How oily your eyelids are
- Whether you set it with powder or primer
Pro tip from reviewers: If you tap some translucent powder over it after application, it’ll last much longer!
Versatility
What surprised me most was how many people use this pencil for OTHER things besides eyelining:
- Several reviewers use it for their EYEBROWS (especially those with lighter hair)
- Some use it as a lip liner
- Others use it instead of eyeshadow (applying then blending out)
One user with light skin and red-toned brows said this was the ONLY pencil that matched her brows perfectly – not too dark, not too red, not too green.
Removal
Almost everyone agrees this is easy to remove with makeup remover or even baby wipes. A few mentioned it was “too easy” to remove, but most see this as a positive since it doesn’t require harsh scrubbing around the delicate eye area.
Potential Issues
Let’s be real – no product is perfect. Here are the common complaints:
- Some users received what they believed were counterfeit products (showing comparison photos)
- A few mentioned the pencil lead breaking during sharpening
- Some found it too hard and difficult to apply
- Several mentioned the smudger tip breaking off
The biggest complaint was inconsistency – some people who had used this product for YEARS suddenly got one that performed differently.
Who This Works Best For
Based on all the reviews, this pencil seems to work best for:
- People who want a natural, not-too-harsh look
- Those who prefer buildable color rather than intense pigment in one swipe
- Makeup minimalists (many reviewers mentioned this was the ONLY makeup item they use regularly)
- Those with sensitive eyes (several mentioned no irritation)
- People who like versatility in their makeup products
Who Should Skip It
You might want to look elsewhere if:
- You have very oily eyelids
- You need something that lasts 12+ hours without touch-ups
- You prefer super intense pigment in one stroke
- You want a true brown (this leans very dark)
The Availability Factor
Interestingly, MANY reviewers mentioned they turned to Amazon because they couldn’t find this pencil in stores anymore. Several noted that CoverGirl seems to be phasing out traditional pencils in favor of twist-up versions, which users found inferior.
As one reviewer dramatically put it: “Can’t find these anywhere! Of course when you finally find a product you can’t live without the major stores discontinue it!”
Value Factor
At around $3-4 (sometimes less with coupons), this pencil is a STEAL compared to high-end alternatives. Multiple reviewers mentioned they’ve tried expensive brands but keep coming back to this one. Many said each pencil lasts around a year with regular use!
My Final Verdict
After using this pencil and analyzing hundreds of reviews, I’d give the COVERGIRL Perfect Blend Eyeliner Pencil in Black Brown a solid 4/5 stars.
The pros DEFINITELY outweigh the cons:
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Versatile uses (eyes, brows, lips)
- The smudge tip is genuinely useful
- Natural-looking results
- Easy to control application
- Easy to remove
Cons:
- Inconsistent product quality (some too dry)
- Not the longest-lasting formula
- May smudge on oily lids
- Becoming harder to find in stores
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for an affordable, versatile eyeliner that gives a natural look and don’t mind possibly touching up throughout the day, this is a GREAT option. The fact that so many reviewers have been using this same pencil for 10, 15, even 20+ YEARS speaks volumes!
As one long-time user perfectly summarized: “This has been my holy grail eye product for 20+ years. It glides on effortlessly and I don’t need to tug at my delicate eye area to apply, it never ever smears on me, it never fades, no irritation. Couldn’t ask for more in an eye product.”
Have you tried this eyeliner? I’d love to hear your experience with it! And remember – makeup should be FUN, not stressful. If this doesn’t work for you, there are plenty of other options out there!
Buy on Amazon: Here
