To Look Polished Without Even Trying, Cool Minimalists Swear By This No-Makeup Game Changer

Let’s face it: The days that spare enough time for full glam are few and far between. As beauty editors, we ravish the glittery, hydrating, and good-smelling products that land on our desks every day, but we rarely have time to primp ourselves before heading out the door. However, the one thing that never fails to make us feel pulled together, even without a perfect manicure or a lick of mascara, is a set of smooth, defined brows à la brow gel—and high-profile makeup artists agree.

“It’s my finishing touch for any look; I start and end with brows,” says celebrity makeup artist Kirin Bhatty. Since these arches shape your face, it’s important to pick a formula that will style your brows exactly how you want them—whether clean and precise, full and fluffy, or smooth and laminated. But Bhatty knows that not all gels are created equal, so she has a few shopping guidelines. “I look for two things—a flake-free formula that I can adjust without the dreaded crumble, and a strong yet natural hold that separates the brow hairs, holds them firm, but never stiff.”

We found the seven best clear brow gels that will hold your arches all day without flaking, drooping, or developing that unsightly white crust. Ahead, our picks from Glossier, Nyx, and more, starting at just $10.

• Formula: One of the most important qualities that Bhatty wants you to keep in mind when shopping for a clear brow gel is the efficacy of the formula. For the best performance, it’s imperative to select a formula that won’t flake or become crunchy throughout the day. Look for hydrating ingredients and products that advertise flexible hold (unless strong-hold products, like the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel, have rave reviews).
• Longevity: Once your brows have been combed through with a bit of gel, you likely don’t want them to move too much afterward. Flexible hold doesn’t mean less staying power—it just promises more of a natural look. Keep an eye out for how much wear time each tube promises, like our top pick from Benefit Cosmetics (24-hour wear!) or the Nyx drugstore formula we swear by, which offers up to 16 hours of hold.
• Style: The way you prefer to wear your brows has just as much to do with your decision as the formula and staying power. If you prefer to wear your brows slick and laminated (so very Gen Z of you), then go for the brow-defining Kosas Air Brow Clear Lifting Treatment Gel. For a more natural look, try Glossier’s Boy Brow, which offers a fluffy, realistic shape. If you’re still finding your style, try Benefit Cosmetics’ Brow Setter, which offers several styling options thanks to its versatile wand.