Main content

Beauty Basics: How To Use Brow Gel

18 Mar 2023

If there’s one thing TikTok’s viral ‘90s thin eyebrow filter has taught us, it’s that the shape of your brows can have a huge impact on your overall appearance. Brows are transformative, and grooming them properly can take your look to the next level. That’s probably why brow gel is so popular. This eyebrow essential is a powerhouse, helping to tame, shape, and hold your brows in place. But that’s only if you choose the right formula for your needs—and use it the right way. Here, we’ve put together a guide detailing how to use brow gel to get the arches of your dreams. Whether you’re a newbie or someone who’s just looking to expand their eyebrow expertise, you’ll find helpful tips and advice for artfully-groomed arches, ahead.

Who Should Use Eyebrow Gel?

First things first: Brow gels, sometimes referred to as brow mascaras, are incredibly versatile. Some thicken the brows, others add color, and, still, others provide hold for shaping and sculpting. This versatility means that there’s a brow gel formula to suit practically any need or beauty aesthetic.

Is Brow Gel Good For Sparse Brows?

Eyebrow gel can be a helpful tool for those with sparse brows, especially formulas that help thicken the brows, like our Thick It Stick It! Brow Gel. Made with plant-origin fibers, this eyebrow gel helps tame, tint, and thicken your arches for fuller-looking brows. The vegan formula comes in eight inclusive shades that deliver up to 16 hours of wear. You can use one coat to add a little bit of color to your arches or layer it on for noticeably thicker-looking brows. If your brows are really sparse (and therefore have less hair for your brow gel to cling to), you can supplement your brow gel with a pencil or pen to give your arches a fuller, more defined finish.

How To Use Eyebrow Gel To Tame Your Brows

Now, let’s get to what you’re really here for: the details on how to use brow gel. Keep reading for our easy, four-step guide to using eyebrow gel in your makeup routine.

Step One: Prep The Area

For your brow gel to apply smoothly and evenly, a clean canvas is a must. Use a makeup wipe or a cotton swab dipped in micellar water to gently cleanse your brows and remove any dirt, oil, or cosmetics (like your skincare products) that may be on your brows. Then, pat the area with a clean washcloth or cotton round to ensure your eyebrows are dry and ready for the next step.

Step Two: Brush Hairs From Root To Tip

Next, decide what brow gel you want to use. Our aforementioned Thick It Stick It! Brow Gel is great for those looking to tame or thicken their arches, while our The Brow Glue Instant Brow Styler is ideal for anyone seeking an option with extreme hold . If you’re using a tinted formula, look for a shade that closely matches or is a bit lighter than your natural brows. Alternatively, you can use a clear eyebrow gel—they dry down transparent so they’re suitable for any brow color.

Once you’ve chosen your formula, remove the attached spoolie brush and brush your brows against the grain (in other words, in the opposite direction of hair growth). Then, starting at the front of your eyebrows, brush them back in the direction of hair growth. This technique coats both sides of your brows in product, which can help provide longer hold.

Step Three: Create Your Desired Shape

Before your eyebrow gel starts to set (in other words, dry), go ahead and brush your brows into their final shape. You can get a lifted, laminated look by brushing your hairs upward, or create a more natural look by combing through your brows in the direction of hair growth. Whichever style you choose, be sure to let your brow gel dry completely before touching them to avoid disrupting the shape.

Step 4 (Optional): Fill In Sparse Areas

If there are any areas you’d like to define further, reach for a brow pencil or pen. Our Micro Brow Pencil is one option we love. The pencil, which comes in 12 highly-pigmented shades, boasts a skinny micro-tip that allows you to draw thin, hair-like strokes with precision . If brow pens are more your speed, try Lift & Snatch! Brow Tint Pen. As the name suggests, this pen is great for creating lifted brow looks with up to 16 hours of wear. The pen’s tip is thin, flexible, and versatile: Use light pressure to draw ultra-fine strokes that mimic the look of baby hairs, or press down harder for thicker, bolder lines . When you finish, mist your face with setting spray, if desired, for extra staying power.

Can You Use Brow Gel Every Day?

Whether you’re a fan of no-makeup makeup or like to go glam every day, there’s no reason you can’t use brow gel every day. Just remember to wash your face thoroughly before bed to remove your eyebrow gel and any other product you may have on. Your face—and your white pillowcases—will thank you.

Next: Now that you’ve discovered some of our best eyebrow gels and how to use them, learn how to complete your eye makeup look in our article How To Apply Eyeshadow Like a True Pro.

PRODUCTS USED

Orientation message
For the best experience, please turn your device