We all have our can’t-leave-the-house-without-it makeup. For this beauty editor, that’s brow gel. It’s become an essential part of my routine: A quick stroke on each arch fluffs, sculpts and polishes my face in a way no other product can, and it even gives my 37-year-old eyes the appearance of a subtle lift.
There are occasions when I opt for a tinted brow gel (or pencil, or pen) for a fuller look, but most days I’m grabbing a tube of clear brow gel for naturally well-shaped brows with long-lasting hold. Of course, not all formulas are created equal—some are frankly less than stellar. No one wants sticky, cement-like or flaking brows, but with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult (and expensive!) to find the ones that actually perform well. Looking for some insight? Below, my fellow editors and I are sharing our top picks (after tubes and tubes of testing), plus real reader feedback.
2 / 10
Boy Brow has earned cult-favorite status for good reason. I especially love the smaller brow brush—it makes shaping a breeze yet still lifts and fluffs thick, coarse brow hair all the same.
3 / 10
If you don’t want your brows to move, consider your search for a clear brow gel over. This celebrity-, Reddit- and editor-loved formula delivers strong hold in the best way possible, leaving brows looking expertly shaped and noticeably fuller.
4 / 10
For natural-looking, fuller brows with absolutely no crunchy texture, Kosas Air Brow is a popular pick. It’s also available (and beloved) in 10 tinted shades, but the clear gel delivers an effortless look you won’t want to go a day without.
5 / 10
Our senior beauty editor’s pick is REFY’s Brow Sculpt Gel, a wax-gel hybrid (it applies white but dries clear) that was reformulated last year for improved performance and longer wear, all while delivering the effortless, laminated look it’s known for.
6 / 10
Our features editor says Maybelline Brow Glue Super Lock is hard to beat. Waterproof and non-sticky, this under-$15 drugstore brow gel delivers strong hold without feeling stiff and keeps brows lifted and comfortable all day long.
7 / 10
Featuring a three-in-one brush, Kulfi’s Free the Brow pairs flexible hold with smart design. One end features a standard spoolie to distribute the gel, while the other includes both a comb and brow brush to shape, evenly coat and set brows in place.
8 / 10
If your brows need a bit of taming but you’re not ready for the full “lamination” look, stop here. Rare Beauty’s lightweight formula delivers flexible, all-day hold. The tiny wand distributes the product evenly and allows for easy shaping and taming.
9 / 10
Benefit Cosmetics’ 24-HR Brow Setter holds brows firmly—but not stiffly—in place with a dual-sided applicator. One side features longer bristles, while the other has shorter bristles for precise shaping and even distribution.
10 / 10
Got2B’s take is the most affordable option on this list, but don’t let the price fool you into thinking that means sacrificing quality. Case in point: Kylie Jenner is a major fan, using it to hold her brows in place in various GRWM videos. Bonus: It can also be used to tame flyaways and baby hairs.
