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14 Best Clear Eyebrow Gels of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Right this way, brow minimalists.
If you haven't already heard the news, fluffy brows are having ~a moment.~ And while you can use eyebrow-growth serums and eyebrow pencils to work towards that full and feathery lewk, you maaay be able to achieve the look of brushed, slicked-up brows with nothing more than a clear eyebrow gel. Great for smoothing, shaping, or lifting brow hairs, the best clear brow gels can help you hop on the soap brow trend with ease. No, clear eyebrow gels won't magically make your brow hairs thicker, but they can help your arches look a whole lot fluffier—and they cost WAY less $$$ than eyebrow laminating.
Here's the deal: Pigmented brow gels help thicken and lend fullness to your brows, while clear brow gels work to shape and set arches with a natural or polished finish. You can also use clear gel to seal your brows after filling 'em in with other products. Ofc, unless you *like* having stiff, shellacked brows that flake before lunchtime, you'll wanna choose the right formula. To help you out, I tested some of the best clear eyebrow gels on the market rn (which were selected with the help of brow expert Michele Holmes and makeup artist Renée Loiz).
Our top picks for best clear eyebrow gels of 2023:
Scroll on for the full list of clear brow gels worth your coin, along with expert information on how clear eyebrow gels work and how to choose the best one for your brows.
Kosas Air Brow Clear
Kosas Air Brow Clear
Pros
- Texture is soft and moussey for easy application
Cons
- Wand grabs a lot of product, so it's easy to apply too much
If you're looking for a clean formula that'll fluff, lift, and set your brows all day long, I swear by this lifting gel treatment from Kosas. The brow gel contains panthenol and hyaluronic acid to help condition your arches, as well as a tripeptide that supports healthier, fuller brow hair. The result: more voluminous brows with *just* the right amount of sheen. And isn't the packaging just so chic??
- Size: 0.13 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 8 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEW: "I’ve repurchased this product at least 10+ times and it never lets me down," one tester writes. "It holds my brows all day long and has great ingredients to help your brows at the same time. Anytime I try a new brow gel, I go right back to this one. It’s to the point I don’t even bother buying any other gel, because of how amazing the Kosas gel is."
Surratt Expressioniste Brow Pomade
Surratt Expressioniste Brow Pomade
Pros
- Comb-like brush allows for even application
- Contains wax for long-lasting, non-sticky hold
Cons
- Pricier than other options
If makeup artist Renée Loiz is looking to give her clients laminated, brushed-up brows, then she reaches for this flexible brow pomade. Featuring a soft sheen and moldable application, this bb stands out for its comb-like brush, which evenly coats your brows with two rows of bristles and gives 'em natural-looking definition. And as Loiz points out, "The staying power is unreal!"
- Size: 0.18 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 8 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEW: "I absolutely adore this brow pomade," one tester writes. "I ended up buying a second one to use when this one runs out. The formula is very smooth and creamy, and helps to make an effortless, fluffy brow look. I'm really thrilled to have found a brow pomade that I feel enhances without making my brows look artificial."
MAC Brow Set
MAC Brow Set
Pros
- Formula is resistant to sweat and humidity
- According to reviews, it sets brows with just one application
Cons
- Can be difficult to wash off, per some testers
I can personally attest that sweat and humidity are no match for this long-lasting gel. MAC Brow Set helps give your brows a laminated look by adding shape and shine—and it really does last all damn day without flaking or stiffening. As a bonus, you can even use this versatile formula to groom lashes, sideburns, and facial hair.
- Size: 0.28 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 8 hours
- Finish: Polished
THE REVIEW: "I love this brow gel!" one review reads. "I work in a hot kitchen, and my brows stay in place and look exactly the same after a 10-hour day."
Hourglass Cosmetics Arch Brow Shaping Gel
Hourglass Cosmetics Arch Brow Shaping Gel
Pros
- Dual-sided brush allows you to better control application
- Gives brows definition while still looking and feeling natural
Cons
- Some testers found it isn't as effective on thicker brow hair
Want to give your brows a natural yet defined look? Try this soft-hold formula from Hourglass, which dries invisible and feels weightless while still providing all-day hold. The best part of the gel: its specialty brush, which features short bristles on one side and long ones on the other so you can better control the application on different areas of your brow.
- Size: 0.1 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 8 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEW: "Love this brow gel!!" writes one tester. "It’s so lightweight, but I feel like it still gives my brows a good hold throughout the day. Other gels I’ve tried feel way too heavy and wet and then crusty after drying. I was looking for my perfect brow gel and then this came along!!"
Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel
Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel
Pros
- Larger wand allows for one-step application
- Leaves brows feeling soft but sculpted, according to reviewers
Cons
- Those with thinner, sparser brows may find the applicator too large
Ofc you can't have a brow gel roundup without including this fan-fave formula from Anastasia Beverly Hills. Reviewers <3 how the gel fluffs up your brows with just one swipe (thanks to its oversized wand), and tons of testers said it left their brows polished for the entire day without any stiffness. Plus, the formula includes soothing chamomile to help condition your brow hair with each wear.
- Size: 0.26 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 12 hours
- Finish: Polished
THE REVIEW: According to one reviewer, "This is my favorite clear brow gel. I don’t need any color, just some structure and hold. This gel goes on easily and provides a nice fullness and good hold without any flakiness throughout the day. One tube lasts a good amount of time as well. I’ve been using this for years and still love it!"
Live Tinted Huebrow Clear Setting Gel
Live Tinted Huebrow Clear Setting Gel
Pros
- Reviewers love the weightless, non-crunchy feel
- Nourishing ingredients help condition brows
Cons
- Doesn't have the best holding power for coarse brows, according to some testers
Anyone looking to keep brows in place while giving 'em a little TLC should check out Live Tinted Huebrow. Packed with a nourishing blend of panthenol, aloe extract, and olive and jojoba oils, this setting gel helps condition your brows as you wear it, and testers note that the lightweight formula is totally crunch-free. Best of all, the dual-sided brush features stiff bristles on one side and flexible ones on the other for dynamic application.
- Size: 0.45 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 8 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEW: As one tester writes, "I don't like to color my brows in since they're thick enough, but [I] wanted to be able to shape them better, and this gel worked perfectly. It's not that thick, so I don't even notice I have it on. A little goes a long way. Not sticky, dries quick, and doesn't cause my brows to feel rock solid. Will definitely use this in my daily routine now."
Glossier Boy Brow
Glossier Boy Brow
Pros
- Wax formula gives it amazing holding power
- Incredibly easy to apply, per testers
Cons
- Goes out of stock frequently, so you have to grab when you can
There's a reason why Glossier Boy Brow has earned a cult following: Inspired by mustache pomade (yes, really), it visibly thickens your brows upon application. I love this creamy, brushable wax formula for its amazing shaping and hold—and you'll love how it includes oleic acid and soluble collagen for conditioning your hair fibers.
- Size: 0.11 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 8 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEW: "I am shocked that I like this as much as I do," writes one tester. "It holds your brows in place while making them look full and fluffy! I would definitely recommend."
Ami Colé Ultra-Flex Brow Shaping Gel
Ami Colé Ultra-Flex Brow Shaping Gel
Pros
- Double-sided spoolie allows you to customize application
- Tube shape helps remove excess product from the wand
Cons
- Light-hold formula may not work as well on thicker, coarser hair
For a light- to medium-hold gel that'll give ya natural-looking brows, you've gotta try this shaping gel from Ami Colé. Featuring a double-sided spoolie with shorter bristles on one side and longer bristles on the other, this flexible eyebrow gel can help give your arches shape without any stiffness—though if you have thicker, coarser brows, then you may need something with a lil more holding power.
- Size: 0.17 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 8 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEW: "Obsessed with this brow gel!" writes one reviewer. "Ami Colé has created a light but firm gel that keeps your brows looking groomed all day. Not too stiff or thick. Just the right texture."
ILIA In Frame Brow Gel
ILIA In Frame Brow Gel
Pros
- According to testers, the small spoolie is great for precision
- Formula helps to lift brows and make them appear fuller
Cons
- Some reviewers found that the gel isn't strong enough to style stubborn brows
If you have thinner arches, you may want to opt with a formula that supports stronger brow hair. Enter: this lightweight formula from ILIA. Made with hydrolyzed quinoa (to help strengthen brow hairs) and hydrating glycerin (to keep your hair from drying out), this gel leaves your brows a bit softer and stronger, while creating the illusion of fuller, more voluminous brows. "At $24, it's worth a try if you like a clean product with clinical test results to back up performance claims," brow expert Michele Holmes says.
- Size: 0.15 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 8 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEW: "This eyebrow gel by ILIA is one of my new faves," one review reads. "It has a small wand that styles my brows with precision. The gel is easy to work with and starts to dry after a couple of minutes to keep them in place exactly how I want them. There is no flaking either once it dries, which I love!"
Milk Makeup KUSH Brow Lamination Gel
Milk Makeup KUSH Brow Lamination Gel
Pros
- Conditioning ingredients help to keep brows soft
- Provides impressive hold even for thicker brows, per testers
Cons
- Those with thinner brows may find the formula too heavy
Going for that brushed-up laminated effect? This brow lamination gel can help ya get there. Like several of our fave brow gels, this pick boasts a dual-sided brush for evenly coating and defining brows, and because it's spiked with panthenol and hemp seed oil, it acts as a hair mask for your eyebrows, so no need to worry about any gross residue or flaking.
- Size: 0.17 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 8 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEW: As one customer writes, "I am OBSESSED with the KUSH Brow Lamination Gel by Milk Makeup. I have naturally thick eyebrows, and this gel enhances them in such a natural way. They stayed lifted and defined during my entire busy day. Also, the gel is flake-free, which is so important!"
Half Magic Grippie Brow Sculpting Gel
Half Magic Grippie Brow Sculpting Gel
Pros
- According to testers, it feels weightless on brows
- Dual-length brush head helps you style as you please
Cons
- Not the best choice for those looking to add volume
Calling all makeup minimalists: This one's for you. Complete with an oversized, dual-length spoolie, this medium-hold gel is a great choice for anyone looking to achieve a natural, brushed-up look—and reviewers swear that it feels practically weightless on your brow hairs. Oh, and JSYK, this brow gel comes from Euphoria makeup artist Donni Davy, so you *know* it's gotta be good.
- Size: 0.19 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 12 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEW: "This product is the best brow gel I've ever used!" one reviewer writes. "My brows look magnificently full and brushed up and they stay put! I will be buying this again and again and again! I am in love with it!!"
Brow Code Alias Brow Lamination Gel
Brow Code Alias Brow Lamination Gel
Pros
- Buildable formulation can give you a natural, feathered, or sleek finish
- Reviewers with thicker, coarser brows are impressed by its holding power
Cons
- Some found that it leaves their brows feeling a lil *too* stiff
Think no brow gel can handle your super-thick arches? Think again, bb. Whether you're looking to achieve a natural feathered finish or a sleek laminated look, this super-strong, wax-like holding gel will help you style your brows with ease, thanks to the custom-designed application wand and buildable formulation. And DW—even though it provides A+ holding power, you can still expect a transparent, flake-free finish.
- Size: 0.15 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 8 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEW: According to one buyer, "I've never found a brow gel that can hold down my thick, coarse hairs all day long—until I found this product. I am officially obsessed!"
NYX Professional Makeup The Brow Glue
NYX Professional Makeup The Brow Glue
Pros
- High-performing for the price
- Able to hold brows for hours with stiffness, per reviewers
Cons
- People with darker-haired brows might notice some flaking
Want a long-lasting brow gel that won't cost ya more than $10? Pls turn your attention to this budget-friendly formula from NYX. Flake-resistant and lightweight, the TikTok-famous glue includes a small spoolie that lets you brush through your brow hairs with precision, and reviewers note that it'll keep your brows styled without any stiffness. "At $9, it holds very well and can even achieve the laminated look for sky-high brows that stay in place," says Holmes.
- Size: 0.18 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 16 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEW: "This product is my absolute favorite brow product. I love it! Definitely recommend!" one tester writes. "It’s affordable and easy to use. Keeps my brows in place and adds some definition. My go-to brow product at the moment."
KS&CO Clear Strong-Hold Brow Gel
KS&CO Clear Strong-Hold Brow Gel
Pros
- Includes ingredients that support brow health
- Helps protect from UV damage and brow color fading
Cons
- Pretty pricey for a small amount of product
Want a brow gel that does double duty? Created by L.A.-based brow expert Kristie Streicher, this nutrient-dense gel adds separation and texture to brows with very little product. Plus, the formula is spiked with growth-supporting ingredients (including biotin and panthenol) and UV filters, so while it won't magically make you grow more brow hair, it can boost your brow health and encourage better eyebrow growth.
- Size: 0.1 fl oz
- Wear-time claim: Up to 8 hours
- Finish: Natural
THE REVIEWS: "KS&Co Clear Strong-Hold Brow Gel is a staple in my kit," Loiz says. "I use on every client to give them perfect naturally groomed brows."
Holmes agrees, adding, "I love this gel because it holds well without flakiness and stands up to its strong hold name where others fall short. This gel also supports healthy brow hair with antioxidants and ingredients like argon oil, red clover extract, and lutein."
What does clear eyebrow gel do?
"A clear brow gel can help lift, shape, and groom your eyebrows into a desired shape,” says brow expert Michele Holmes. "Much like how we finish our hair with hairspray or styling products, clear brow gel is a nice way to finish and set eyebrows in an invisible way." Whether you're looking to bring the drama or simply sweep unruly brows into place, a clear brow gel is a great product for anyone who appreciates a natural but well-groomed brow.
And while clear gels can be used alone to smooth your brows and lock 'em into place without color deposits, they can also be used to "set your brows after filling them in with pencil or powder," as makeup artist Renée Loiz points out. Clear brow gel should be applied after you fill your brows with other products (if you use them, that is), meaning that eyebrow gel is typically the last step when doing your brows.
How do you apply clear eyebrow gel?
If you're not sure how to apply clear brow gel, the best thing to do is to swipe the applicator along your brows in the direction of growth to set brows in place. You can also opt to create a feathery, full appearance by setting your brows upward, which will give you the popular laminated look. Keep in mind, too, that a little bit of product goes a long way, so you'll wanna remove any excess gel from your brush before applying.
For those with patchy or uneven eyebrow hair, Holmes suggests filling in your brows with pencils or powders first. Then, use the clear gel's wand to brush with upward strokes and style your brows into your desired shape. "Use the tip of the wand to set any stray hairs into place or cover gaps in the brows," she says. "Allow the gel to fully dry before touching your face or brows."
How to choose the best clear eyebrow gel
Look at the ingredients
While many brow gels contain safe synthetic setting ingredients, such as PVP or VP/VA copolymers, some will also include conditioning ingredients to ensure the gel doesn't do your brows damage. Look for formulas with some type of conditioner (such as panthenol, glycerin, or castor oil) to avoid flakes and to keep brows soft.
Consider the holding power
When buying a clear brow gel, you'll want to take your hair texture into consideration. Those with fine hair can get away with a light-hold or soft-hold formula (such as Ami Colé Ultra-Flex Brow Shaping Gel), while those with thick or coarse hair will likely have better luck with gels labeled strong-hold (like NYX The Brow Glue).
Check out the wear-time claim
Most brow gels will claim to hold for six to eight hours, but some will keep holding strong for 12 hours or more. If it's important that your brows keep their shape from the morning through the night, then opt for a long-wearing gel formula, such as Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel.
Meet the experts
- Michele Holmes is a brow shaping expert and founder of Michele Holmes Studio in Corte Madera, CA. She also launched her own clean beauty brand, Rye Beauty, in 2021, which specializes in brow products, including a brow grooming serum.
- Renée Loiz is a celebrity makeup artist who has worked with celebrities like Quinta Brunson, Cynthia Erivo, and Sherry Cole, among others. She is also the founder of Color May Vary, a Black-owned beauty guide.
Why trust 'Cosmopolitan'?
Corinne Sullivan is an editor at Cosmopolitan and has five years of experience writing about beauty, fashion, and lifestyle news, including the best drugstore sunscreen and the best acne body washes. Her clear eyebrow gel picks were based off of expert interviews, reviews, and product testing.
Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé.
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