If you have thick, stubborn brow hairs like I do, you know how hard it is to find a brow gel that actually holds, shapes, and stays put.

I’ve tested a long list over the years, and these are the ones that have survived the declutter and still live in my collection. Here’s my honest breakdown of how each one performs on my brows!

1. REFY Brow Sculpt Gel

This product can be polarizing, but for me, it’s genuinely one of the most reliable brow gels I own. I reach for it anytime I’m wearing a full face or want that laminated, lifted brow look. It locks my brows into place all day without flaking, drooping, or getting crunchy. I like to brush it through in both directions, then follow my natural brow shape to lay everything down—and the result always looks polished and long-wearing.

2. Iconic London Tint & Texture Brow Gel (Shade: Chocolate Brown)

I used this consistently for a while, but over time it stopped delivering any meaningful hold. My brows looked fine right after application, but within an hour they’d lose their shape and start wandering. It may work better on finer or naturally tame brows, but for thicker hairs like mine, it just doesn’t provide enough control. I rarely reach for it now.

3. NYX The Brow Glue (Shade: Dark Brown)

This is one of my top drugstore finds. The tinted formula makes it incredibly easy to create fuller-looking brows without having to fill them in with pencil or powder. It grips the hairs firmly, adds definition, and keeps everything in place all day. It’s perfect for natural-makeup days but still strong enough for a long-wear look.

4. e.l.f. Clear Brow & Lash Mascara

This is my go-to for minimal makeup days. It’s lightweight, simple to use, and gives just enough hold to keep my brows looking neat without feeling heavy. I usually pair it with mascara and a lip balm when I’m running errands or want a no-makeup makeup vibe. It’s budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and surprisingly long-lasting for the price.

Each gel serves a different purpose: REFY and NYX deliver serious hold and definition, Iconic London falls short for thicker brows, and e.l.f. offers a soft, effortless look for everyday wear. Whether you want laminated drama or subtle polish, there’s an option in this lineup that can fit your routine!