Omar Khalid
Plastic makeup pencils can be a hassle to sharpen, and you may need to shop around for a suitable sharpener. While some makeup pencils come with a mini sharpener, others require a separate sharpener to be purchased. A standard sharpener may not be up to the task, and a sturdier sharpener with a wider blade and denser body is often required. It is also important to regularly clean your sharpener with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol to remove any makeup buildup and bacteria. If you don't have a sharpener, you can use a small knife or scissors, but be careful not to cut yourself. Putting your plastic makeup pencil in the freezer for a few minutes before sharpening can help prevent crumbling.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of sharpener | A cosmetic sharpener is required for plastic makeup pencils. |
| Sharpener features | Look for a sharpener with a stainless steel blade, which will not dull or rust. |
| Sharpener type to avoid | Avoid generic or low-end sharpeners, as these will break and will give you a poor edge. |
| Sharpener brand recommendations | Urban Decay, Julep, ELF, Milani, and Lancome. |
| Preparing the pencil | Put the pencil in the freezer for 5 minutes to prevent crumbling. |
| Testing the pencil | Test the pencil on the back of your hand and adjust the sharpness as needed. |
| Cleaning the sharpener | Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the sharpener before and after use. |
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What You'll Learn
Use a makeup sharpener
Using a makeup sharpener is the most common way to sharpen plastic makeup pencils. These sharpeners are built specifically for sharpening makeup pencils and creating a sharp point for precise, pigmented lines. They are also known as cosmetic sharpeners, eye makeup pencil sharpeners, or makeup pencil sharpeners.
Makeup sharpeners are designed to sharpen makeup pencils without breaking the soft, coloured tip of the pencil. To use a makeup sharpener, insert the pencil into the sharpener and turn it one or two times to sharpen. It is important to use a sharpener designed for makeup pencils, as a regular pencil sharpener will break the soft tip of the pencil.
When choosing a makeup sharpener, look for one with a stainless steel blade, as this will not dull or rust. Some popular options include the Urban Decay sharpener, which works well for plastic pencils, and the NARS pencil sharpener, which does not open accidentally. It is also recommended to choose a mid- to high-end range sharpener, as these will be sturdier and less likely to break the pencil or create a poor edge.
To get the best results when sharpening plastic makeup pencils, it is recommended to put the pencil in the freezer for a few minutes before sharpening. This will prevent the pencil from crumbling and create a sharper point. It is also important to regularly clean your makeup sharpener to remove any makeup buildup and bacteria. This can be done by dipping a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and cleaning the inside and outside of the sharpener, including the blades.
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Look for a sharp, strong sharpener
When it comes to sharpening plastic makeup pencils, it's important to choose a sharpener that is specifically designed for this purpose. While you may be tempted to use a regular pencil sharpener, it won't give you the desired effect.
Look for a sharpener that is geared towards eyeliners or makeup pencils. These sharpeners are designed to give you a sharp and precise tip without all the hassle of broken leads and wood shavings. They are also sturdier than standard sharpeners, with wider blades and denser bodies. Some even come with two holes of different sizes to accommodate various pencil diameters.
When shopping for a sharpener, opt for mid to high-end options, as cheaper alternatives tend to break more easily and produce poor edges. It's worth investing in a durable sharpener with a quality blade, such as those made from stainless steel or durable steel infused with 1% carbon to prevent rusting. A sharpener with a cap or lid is also advantageous, as it can catch the shavings and make cleaning easier.
Some recommended sharpeners include the Urban Decay Grindhouse sharpener, NARS pencil sharpener, and the Milani sharpener. The Palladio Double Barrel 3-in-1 Cosmetic Pencil Sharpener is another excellent option, featuring a stainless steel blade and a size adjuster for small and extra-large pencils.
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Avoid generic or low-end sharpeners
When sharpening plastic makeup pencils, it is important to avoid generic or low-end sharpeners. These sharpeners are often not sturdy enough to effectively sharpen the harder plastic material, which can lead to several issues. Firstly, the sharpener may not be able to cope with the plastic casing, resulting in jagged edges or a broken tip that can be uncomfortable or even harmful to the eyes. Secondly, low-quality sharpeners may not provide a sharp enough edge, impacting the precision of your makeup application.
To identify a sturdy sharpener, look for one with a wider blade and a denser body. Many high-quality sharpeners also come in a double configuration, allowing for different pencil sizes. While these sharpeners may be more expensive, they are worth the investment to ensure a precise and comfortable application of your plastic makeup pencils.
One option is to purchase a sharpener specifically designed for plastic liners. These sharpeners tend to be sturdier than standard ones and can provide a sharper edge. Some brands that offer these types of sharpeners include Milani, Julep, and Lancome. Additionally, when shopping for a sharpener, look for one that is easy to clean and has a secure lid to prevent accidental openings and messes in your makeup bag.
While some people choose to use generic pencil sharpeners or those from stationery shops, this is not recommended for plastic makeup pencils. These sharpeners are often not designed for the unique characteristics of makeup pencils and can lead to subpar results. Investing in a mid-to-high-end sharpener designed for makeup pencils will provide a better sharpening experience and help you get the most out of your plastic makeup pencils.
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Clean the sharpener with rubbing alcohol
To sharpen plastic makeup pencils, it is recommended to use a sturdy sharpener specifically designed for plastic liners. These sharpeners are usually denser and have wider blades than standard sharpeners.
To clean and sanitize your makeup pencil sharpener, start by emptying any accumulated shavings and lead from the inner compartment. This step ensures that the sharpener is clear of any debris before disinfecting. Then, take a cotton swab or a cotton bud and dip it in rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol. This alcohol serves as a disinfectant, effectively killing bacteria that may be present in the sharpener. Gently work the wet swab inside the sharpener, paying close attention to the blades. You can also use a new swab to clean the blades inside the compartment. This process ensures that your sharpener is not only clean but also sanitized, reducing the risk of potential bacterial infections.
Makeup artists like Rebecca Restrepo recommend sanitizing your sharpener after every use, especially when working on multiple clients. It is also suggested to have separate sharpeners for eye and lip pencils to maintain optimal hygiene. Additionally, some sharpeners come with a removable stick designed to remove built-up shavings, making cleaning more accessible.
By following these steps and regularly cleaning your sharpener with rubbing alcohol, you can maintain the hygiene and functionality of your makeup pencil sharpeners.
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Put the pencil in the freezer first
Putting your plastic makeup pencil in the freezer before sharpening can help prevent crumbling and achieve a sharper point. It is recommended to put the pencil in the freezer for around five to ten minutes. If the pencil is thicker, it may need to be left in the freezer for a longer period of time, such as ten to fifteen minutes.
When taking the pencil out of the freezer, it should feel harder than when it was put in. If it still feels soft or crumbly, put it back in the freezer for another five minutes. After removing the pencil from the freezer, hold it in your non-dominant hand and place a sharp knife in the other hand. Place the blade of the knife about one inch from the tip of the pencil and carefully run it down to the tip. Rotate the pencil and repeat until you have gone all the way around.
Alternatively, you can use a sharpener to achieve the desired sharpness. However, it is important to use a sturdy sharpener specifically designed for plastic makeup pencils to prevent jagged edges and breaking points. Before sharpening, ensure the sharpener is clean and sterilized to avoid the risk of bacteria, which can be harmful to the eyes.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a cosmetic sharpener to sharpen plastic makeup pencils. Some brands that sell sharpeners for plastic pencils include Milani, Julep, BlingKingdom, Palladio Beauty, Alleyoop Beauty, Timipoo-US, Urban Decay, and Sephora.
Place the pencil inside the sharpener and turn it one or two times. Do not press hard or force the pencil in. You can also use a small precision knife or a pair of scissors to sharpen the pencil.
Place the pencil in the freezer for five minutes before sharpening it. This will prevent the pencil from crumbling as you sharpen it.
Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and use it to clean the inside and outside of the sharpener.
