It’s true what they say: Eyebrows really do frame the face. It never ceases to amaze me how a few quick swipes of an eyebrow gel can change my whole look. But, you don’t have to break the bank to get perfectly defined arches or fluffy brows that stand at attention. Here, the top recommendations for drugstore brow products from makeup artists, and everything is less than $15. From laminating gels to easy-glide pencils, there’s something for everyone.
The Best Drugstore Brow Products
e.l.f. Brow Laminating Gel ($8)
“Brow Lamination is at your fingertips with this innovative, dual-sided gel and brush combo!” says makeup artist Nicole Faulkner. “Use the spoolie end with the powerful holding wax and then brush/comb through your eyebrows in an upward motion for salon-perfect brows every time! If you’ve wanted to experiment with brow laminating but want a less permanent and more affordable alternative, you’re gonna want to add this to your cart immediately!”
Makeup artist Tomy Rivero is also a fan. “This product gives long-lasting, high-shine hold for a lamination look without the commitment. It doesn’t flake or get white if you reapply either.”
Maybelline New York Build-A-Brow ($15)
“My favorite brow combo is Maybelline New York Build-A-Brow paired with Super Lock Brow Glue,” says makeup artist Jenna Kristina. “It gives you brows that are fluffy and natural yet defined, plus they last all day. I use this on all of my clients.”
Milani Stay Put Brow Color ($9)
“This product has a great color range and the color is buildable,” says Rivero. “It’s also waterproof, sweat-proof and dancing-proof. It won’t go anywhere.”
L’Oréal Paris Infallible Up To 24H Wear Brow Lamination ($15)
“It’s not sticky and it sets down instantly,” says makeup artist Hannah Wills. “It’s the easiest thing I’ve found and it stays in place. You can flick your brows up as much as you want or make them look more tame. You can put it on before or after you fill your brows in. I put brow powder in after and it doesn’t alter the gel.”
NYX Professional Makeup Life & Snatch Brow Tint Pen ($13)
“This brow pen has an extremely fine tip that lets you achieve a hair-like finish,” says Rivero. “It’s great for building a natural-looking brow.”
e.l.f. Brow Lift ($6)
“This strong-hold wax consistency used for creating a brushed-up ‘soap brow’ look will forever be a makeup artist must-have!” says Faulkner. “Everyone needs this. It’s foolproof and gives you that fluffy brow look that will last all day!”
Wet n Wild Ultimate Retractable Brow Pencil ($5)
“I love this brow pencil because it’s transfer-proof and made with soft wax that glides onto the skin for a very easy application,” says Rivero.
e.l.f. Holy Strokes Micro-Fine Brow Pen ($7)
“Talk about buildable and versatile!” says Faulkner. “This sheer brow pen is perfect for building a perfectly filled-in brow effect. Pro tip: Use one shade for subtle hair strokes or use multiple shades to add depth and dimension.”