Jamie tried it:

This kit is a fabulous idea in theory, but in reality, falls short of the reputation for quality implied by its creator: brow guru to the stars, Anastasia. There are six pieces - combo brush/wand tool, clear brow gel, brow highlighter pencil, tweezers, dual-shaded brow gel/powder, and four brow shape "templates." This kit is for those who really want to spend time perfecting - not the quick-swipe-and-go crowd.

Great things: the large set of tweezers (near in quality to Tweezerman) are fabulous, the angled brush on the combo tool is just right - not too hard, not too soft, and the shaded gel/powder is a mysteriously effective, softer alternative to traditional wax.

Average things: the eye highlighter pencil is substantial, but for me, the consistency was chalky - my eyes need something a little more dewy. Also, the clear holding gel (in a mascara-style applicator) was too thick and dried too stiff to be considered comfortable for long periods of time.

Not so great things: the clear, flexible brow shaping templates were too wide for my face (my actual eyebrows ended far short of the "end" of the piece - what to do?) which is a significant problem if you purchase this product looking for help with shaping, and the bag that holds it all is sort of bulky. After all, it's just eyebrow stuff - I can't justify it being 50% of my daily makeup real estate.

Considering the price (and considering the cult following this product has), I have to say that this product is only average at best. $75, available at Sephora.

Rating:

What They Say: "This double-duty wizard is comprised of a velvety pencil on one end, and a brow brush on the other, each uniquely suited to create a beautifully natural brow. "

Jen's Experience: My brows could definitely be described as unruly, and whenever I try to whip them into shape, I find that some areas are thick while other areas are more sparse. With the trend going towards thicker and thicker brows, I've been playing with ways to make mine stand out.

I spent a lot of time at Sephora and decided on this pencil by Anastasia since it seemed like an easier solution than the powders and the gels I've seen. I've used other, less expensive brow pencils and had reasonably good luck, but nothing so outstanding that it makes a place in my daily routine. This is probably the best that I've tried. The look is very, very natural, which allows me to fill in the sparse parts without looking too overdone. The brush at the end does a reasonably good job at keeping my brows in place, especially if I spray it with a little hairspray. My only complaint is that the color doesn't last throughout the day. Overall, I'm pleased with the result, and it's worth the effort, at least for more important occasions.

Retail Price: $22.00 (Sephora)

Rating: