Rare Beauty in Mascaras & Brow Products

Rare Beauty is known for its inclusive, lightweight makeup products and its focus on self-acceptance and mental health advocacy. It’s especially popular for its liquid blushes, concealers, and skin-like complexion products.

Rare Beauty is known for its inclusive, lightweight makeup products—especially its popular liquid blushes, tinted products, and a natural, skin-enhancing finish. It’s also known for its focus on mental health awareness and self-acceptance.

Rare Beauty is known for its inclusive, easy-to-use makeup products—especially liquid blush, tinted lip balms, and lightweight complexion products—as well as its focus on self-acceptance and mental health advocacy.

Rare Beauty is known for its inclusive, accessible makeup line—especially lightweight base products, blushes, and natural-looking finishes—and for its emphasis on self-acceptance and mental health advocacy.

Rare Beauty is known for its inclusive, easy-to-use makeup products and its focus on self-acceptance and natural-looking beauty. The brand is especially popular for its liquid blushes, lip products, and complexion products.

Rare Beauty’s main strengths are its strong brand identity, inclusive messaging, and popular product quality—especially complexion products, blushes, and easy-to-use formulas. It also benefits from founder Selena Gomez’s visibility and a reputation for supporting mental health causes, which gives it emotional resonance beyond just makeup.

Its weaknesses are typical of fast-growing celebrity beauty brands: heavy reliance on the founder’s image, less differentiation in a crowded prestige/masstige market, and some product categories that may feel more trend-driven than innovative. Like many brands at its price point, consistency across shades, wear time, and skin types can also be a concern for some users.

Rare Beauty’s main strengths are its strong brand identity, inclusive positioning, and highly successful hero products—especially complexion and blush items that are widely praised for blendability and natural finish. It also benefits from Selena Gomez’s strong influence and a community-driven, mental-health-positive image that feels authentic and differentiated.

Main weaknesses: the brand can feel heavily dependent on its celebrity founder and social-media hype, and some products may not suit every skin type or preference (for example, very dewy finishes or formulas that are a bit too pigmented for some users). Like many fast-growing beauty brands, it also faces pressure around consistency, shade range depth, and maintaining long-term momentum beyond viral launches.

Rare Beauty’s main strengths are its strong brand identity, inclusive shade and skin-tone focus, approachable pricing, and effective product quality—especially for complexion and cheek products like blush and foundation. It also has excellent emotional branding around self-acceptance, which resonates strongly with younger consumers and drives social media buzz.

Its weaknesses are a relatively narrow product range compared with major beauty competitors, some formulas or shades may not suit everyone equally, and the brand relies heavily on celebrity association and trend-driven demand. It can also be harder to find in some markets than mass or prestige brands, which limits convenience and global reach.

Rare Beauty’s main strengths are its strong brand identity, inclusive positioning, and product performance. It’s widely praised for approachable, beginner-friendly makeup, especially blushes, complexion products, and lip products, and it has built a loyal community through Selena Gomez’s influence, thoughtful messaging around self-acceptance, and a modern, social-media-savvy aesthetic. Its products are also generally seen as easy to use, flattering, and long-lasting.

Its weaknesses are that the brand can be very trend- and hype-driven, which can make it feel crowded or overexposed. Some users find certain formulas too pigmented or tricky to apply if they want a more subtle look. It’s also relatively premium-priced compared with drugstore brands, and its product range is still narrower than more established beauty houses, so it may not fully satisfy people looking for a very broad or highly technical makeup assortment.

Strengths: strong brand story and founder appeal, inclusive shade/finish positioning, good product quality with easy-to-use formulas, strong social media/community engagement, and a distinctive identity around natural-looking makeup. Weaknesses: can be seen as premium-priced, some products may not suit users wanting full-glam or long-wear performance, limited category breadth compared with larger beauty brands, and availability can be uneven across markets.

Rare Beauty is a good fit for people who like lightweight, natural-looking makeup, easy-to-blend formulas, and a soft, fresh finish—especially if you prefer a simple everyday routine or dewy/skin-like looks.

It may not be the best choice for people who want very full-coverage, ultra-matte, or long-wear glam makeup all the time. Also, anyone with very sensitive skin should patch test first, since individual reactions can vary with any brand.

Rare Beauty is best for people who like light-to-medium, easy-to-blend makeup with a natural, skin-like finish—especially beginners, everyday wearers, and those who enjoy cream/liquid formulas and a more minimal routine.

It may be a worse fit for people who want very full-coverage, ultra-matte, or long-wear/event-proof makeup, or who strongly dislike dewy finishes and fragranced/feel-type sensory textures. If you have very sensitive skin, it’s also worth patch-testing any product first.

Rare Beauty is a good fit for people who want easy-to-use, natural-looking makeup with a soft, fresh finish—especially beginners, minimal-makeup users, and people who like lightweight, buildable formulas. It may be a better choice if you prefer vegan/cruelty-free beauty brands.

People who may want to avoid it: anyone with very sensitive skin or fragrance/ingredient sensitivities should patch-test first, and anyone who prefers full-coverage, very matte, or long-wear “bulletproof” makeup may not love the brand’s typical finish and texture.

Rare Beauty is a good fit for people who want lightweight, buildable makeup with a natural-to-medium finish, especially if they like easy-to-use products for everyday wear. It’s also popular with people who prefer a more inclusive shade range and a soft, fresh look.

People who may want to avoid it: if you prefer full-glam, very matte, or long-wear/transfer-proof formulas, some Rare Beauty products may not be ideal. Also, if you have very sensitive skin or know you react to specific ingredients, check the ingredient list first.

Rare Beauty is a good fit for people who like natural-looking, buildable makeup, dewy finishes, and easy-to-use products with a more inclusive, skin-forward feel. It’s also a good choice if you want a brand with a soft glam aesthetic rather than heavy coverage.

People may want to skip it if they prefer very matte, ultra-longwear, full-coverage makeup, or if they have very oily skin and don’t like radiant formulas. As with any cosmetics brand, anyone with sensitive skin or specific ingredient allergies should patch test first.

Rare Beauty is generally positioned as a modern, inclusive, “easy-to-use” makeup brand with strong shade range, soft-focus natural finishes, and a wellness/self-acceptance brand story. Compared with main competitors:

• Fenty Beauty: both are inclusive and celebrity-led, but Fenty is broader and more trend/innovation driven, while Rare Beauty is softer, simpler, and more beginner-friendly.
• Charlotte Tilbury: Charlotte Tilbury skews more luxury, glam, and polished; Rare Beauty is more approachable, lighter, and less price-premium.
• Glossier: both favor effortless looks, but Rare Beauty has more makeup depth and stronger pigmentation; Glossier is even more minimal and skincare-adjacent.
• e.l.f.: e.l.f. competes on value and virality; Rare Beauty is higher-priced but stronger on brand identity and prestige appeal.
• Tower 28 / Saie: these clean-beauty-adjacent brands overlap in natural finishes, but Rare Beauty usually has stronger color payoff and wider mainstream recognition.

Overall: Rare Beauty stands out for emotional branding, inclusivity, and user-friendly formulas, but it competes against brands that may beat it on luxury, innovation, or price.

Rare Beauty is generally positioned as a more inclusive, feel-good, soft-glam makeup brand than many of its competitors. Its biggest strengths are highly blendable complexion and cheek products, approachable pricing, strong shade and skin-tone inclusivity, and a brand story focused on mental health and self-acceptance. It’s especially known for Liquid Blush, Soft Pinch products, and lightweight, natural-looking formulas.

Compared with Fenty Beauty, Rare Beauty is usually softer in aesthetic and more dewy/natural, while Fenty tends to offer a broader, more trend-forward full-face assortment with a stronger focus on shade range in complexion products. Compared with Glossier, Rare Beauty is more makeup-first and more pigmented; Glossier is more minimalist and skincare-adjacent. Compared with Charlotte Tilbury or Dior Beauty, Rare Beauty is much more affordable and less luxury/glamorous, but those brands often have a more premium, polished image and more established prestige positioning. Compared with e.l.f. Cosmetics, Rare Beauty is pricier and more premium-feeling, while e.l.f. wins on value and mass accessibility.

Overall, Rare Beauty stands out for emotional branding, modern social-media popularity, and high-performing blush/face products, but it has a smaller, less comprehensive catalog than some major competitors.

Rare Beauty is usually seen as a mid-premium celebrity brand that competes most directly with Fenty Beauty, Glossier, and to some extent e.l.f./Maybelline on certain products.

• Versus Fenty Beauty: Rare Beauty is a bit softer, more minimalist, and focused on easy-to-use cream/liquid complexion products and a natural finish. Fenty is broader, more shade-inclusive, and often leans more glam/professional.
• Versus Glossier: Both emphasize effortless, skin-first makeup, but Rare Beauty generally offers stronger pigment payoff and more versatile complexion formulas; Glossier is even more minimal and sheer.
• Versus e.l.f.: e.l.f. is much cheaper and more dupes/value-driven, while Rare Beauty has a more premium image, stronger branding, and higher prices.
• Versus Charlotte Tilbury: Charlotte Tilbury is more luxury and polished/glam; Rare Beauty is more approachable, youthful, and less overtly glam.

Overall, Rare Beauty’s edge is its modern brand identity, easy blendability, and strong emotional/story-driven positioning, while its weaker point versus top competitors is narrower product breadth and less of a pro-makeup or luxury performance image.

Rare Beauty is generally positioned as a clean, feel-good, mid-priced makeup brand with strong emphasis on emotional wellness and easy-to-use products. Compared with its main competitors:

• Fenty Beauty: Fenty is the closest rival on inclusivity and launch impact, but Fenty is usually seen as more complexion-focused and trend-driven, while Rare Beauty is softer, more minimalist, and especially known for blush and liquid formulas.
• Glossier: Both lean into natural, everyday makeup, but Rare Beauty is more makeup-forward and performance-oriented, while Glossier is more skincare-makeup hybrid and sheer/lifestyle-focused.
• e.l.f. / drugstore clean brands: Rare Beauty is pricier and more premium in feel, with stronger celebrity branding and packaging, while e.l.f. wins on accessibility and value.
• Charlotte Tilbury / NARS / MAC: These brands often have broader professional heritage and more established artist credibility. Rare Beauty competes by offering more approachable, modern branding and highly viral, user-friendly products.

Overall, Rare Beauty stands out for its positive brand message, strong social media appeal, and standout blush/face products. Its main edge is branding and ease of use; its main disadvantage versus legacy competitors is a narrower product range and less long-term pro artistry credibility.

Rare Beauty is positioned as a celebrity-founded, makeup-first brand with a strong emphasis on easy-to-use formulas, skin-like finishes, and mental-health-positive branding. Compared with its main competitors:

• Fenty Beauty: Fenty is stronger on breadth and innovation, especially complexion shade range and pro-level performance. Rare Beauty is usually softer, more minimal, and more natural-finish.
• Glossier: Both lean into effortless, everyday makeup, but Rare Beauty tends to have better pigment payoff and more makeup-forward products, while Glossier is even more pared back and dewy.
• e.l.f. Cosmetics: e.l.f. wins on affordability and mass-market accessibility. Rare Beauty is pricier and more premium in feel/branding.
• Haus Labs: Haus Labs is more high-performance and complexion-focused; Rare Beauty is generally simpler, lighter, and easier for casual users.
• Kylie Cosmetics / other celebrity brands: Rare Beauty is often viewed as more credible in formulation and brand purpose, with stronger consumer goodwill.

Overall, Rare Beauty stands out most for its emotional brand story, approachable formulas, and strong social resonance. It is not the cheapest or the most expansive, but it’s one of the best-balanced brands for users who want polished but low-effort makeup.

Common complaints about Rare Beauty are usually: prices being a bit high, packaging that can get messy or bulky, some base products not lasting as long as people want, and certain shades/formulas not working for all skin types. A few people also mention the blush/liq products can be very pigmented and easy to overapply.

People most often complain that Rare Beauty products can be very easy to over-apply because they’re so pigmented, especially the liquid blushes. Other common complaints are that some formulas don’t last as long on oily skin, the packaging can get messy or feel fragile, and shade ranges/product releases can feel limited for some users.

Common complaints about Rare Beauty are that the products can be very pigmented and easy to overapply, especially the liquid blushes, some formulas can feel a bit drying or set fast, and a few people dislike the packaging for being bulky or messy. Some also mention shade range/performance varies by product and that the brand is pricey for the amount you get.

People most often complain about Rare Beauty being: 1) too pricey for the amount of product, 2) some formulas being hit-or-miss depending on skin type, especially the liquid blush/other liquid products drying too fast or blending patchily if you don’t work quickly, 3) packaging being a bit bulky or messy for travel, and 4) certain shades or undertones not working for everyone. Some also say the brand is overhyped because it’s so popular.

People most often complain about Rare Beauty’s:

• very pigmented blushes being easy to overapply
• packaging/pumps that some find messy or not ideal for travel
• prices being a bit high for the size
• some formulas feeling too dewy, tacky, or not long-wearing on certain skin types
• occasional shade-match issues in complexion products

Overall, the most common criticism is that the products are popular but not always as foolproof or universally flattering as the marketing suggests.

Mascara is typically known for lengthening, thickening, and defining eyelashes. Brow products are typically known for filling in, shaping, and setting eyebrows for a fuller, more polished look.

Mascara is typically known for darkening, lengthening, and volumizing eyelashes, while brow products are known for filling in, defining, and shaping eyebrows.

Mascara is typically known for lengthening, volumizing, and darkening lashes; brow products are known for filling in, shaping, and defining eyebrows.

A mascara or brow product is typically known for enhancing the appearance of lashes or eyebrows—adding volume, length, definition, and a more polished look.

A typical mascara or brow product is known for enhancing the eyes: mascara darkens, lengthens, and adds volume to eyelashes, while brow products fill in, define, and shape eyebrows.

For short lashes, the best mascaras are usually the ones with tiny brushes and lengthening formulas. Top picks:

• Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara — great for grabbing tiny lashes and separating them.
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — very good length for a drugstore option.
• Clinique High Impact Mascara — clean, natural length, good for short lashes.
• L’Oréal Telescopic Original — one of the best for stretching short lashes.
• Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara — more volume, but still works well if you want thicker-looking short lashes.
• Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara — excellent for very short, stubborn lashes, especially if they don’t hold a curl.

If you want, I can also give you the best waterproof mascaras for short lashes or the best drugstore vs luxury picks.

For short lashes, look for lengthening/curling mascaras with slim or short-bristle wands. Good brands to try:

• Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara — best pick for short lashes; tubing formula, short bristles, very lengthening. (allure.com)
• Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara — another strong short-lash option; flared-tip applicator helps reach tiny inner-corner lashes. (allure.com)
• Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara — great for separation + length; dual-sided wand helps coat and lift short lashes. (allure.com)
• L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Waterproof Mascara — excellent drugstore choice; slim wand is designed to catch short lashes. (allure.com)
• CoverGirl Clump Crusher — good if you want definition and separation without clumps. (allure.com)
• Benefit Roller Lash — a popular curling/lifting pick in Sephora’s current mascara roundup. (sephora.com)

If you want the best single pick, I’d start with Hourglass Unlocked or L’Oréal Telescopic. If you want, I can also give you the best budget, best waterproof, or best for straight short lashes.

Best mascara brands for sensitive eyes are usually fragrance-free, ophthalmologist-tested, and easy to remove. Good options:

• Clinique Lash Power Mascara
• Almay Thickening Mascara (especially their hypoallergenic formulas)
• Neutrogena Healthy Lengths Mascara
• Physicians Formula Organic Wear Mascara
• La Roche-Posay Toleriane Mascara
• Burt’s Bees 100% Natural Nourishing Mascara

If you wear contacts or get irritation easily, Clinique and La Roche-Posay are especially solid picks.

Quick tip: even “sensitive” mascaras can irritate if they’re waterproof or hard to remove, so a non-waterproof formula is often better.

For sensitive eyes, the safest bets are usually fragrance-free, ophthalmologist-tested, and smudge/flake-resistant formulas. Good brands to try:

• Clinique — especially High Impact Mascara / High Impact High-Fi; Clinique labels these as ophthalmologist tested, allergy tested, 100% fragrance free, and safe for sensitive eyes/contact lens wearers. (clinique.com)
• Almay — a very solid drugstore option; its mascaras are marketed as hypoallergenic, ophthalmologist tested, fragrance free, and suitable for sensitive eyes/contact lens wearers. (almay.com)
• Tower 28 — MakeWaves Mascara is fragrance-free, essential-oil-free, alcohol-free, and labeled safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. (tower28beauty.com)
• blinc — their tubing mascaras are a strong pick if flakes or rubbing bother you, since they’re designed not to smudge or flake and are described as ideal for sensitive eyes/contact lens wearers. (blincinc.com)

If you want just one starting point: Clinique for a classic mascara, or blinc if flaking is your main issue. (clinique.com)

If you want, I can narrow this to drugstore, clean beauty, or best tubing mascaras.

Here are some of the best waterproof mascaras for summer:

• Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof — great everyday volume and length, very reliable in heat/humidity.
• L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Waterproof — best for clean lengthening and separation.
• Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof — strong volume, holds up well through sweat and humidity.
• Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof — dramatic volume, popular for long wear.
• Clinique Lash Power Mascara Long-Wearing Formula — very smudge-resistant and good for sensitive eyes.
• Essence Lash Princess Waterproof — budget-friendly and surprisingly good performance.
• Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Waterproof — good all-around option with a more natural finish.
• Dior Diorshow Waterproof — premium pick for fuller lashes and strong wear.

If you want, I can also narrow these down by budget, best for sensitive eyes, or best for hot/humid weather.

For summer, the safest bets are Maybelline, L’Oréal Paris, Lancôme, Essence, Bobbi Brown, MAC, Too Faced, and Gen See—all showed up in recent editor-tested waterproof mascara roundups. (vogue.com)

Best picks:

• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof — great drugstore all-rounder for heat/humidity. (goodhousekeeping.com)
• L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Waterproof — strong for length and separation. (allure.com)
• Essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof — best budget option. (vogue.com)
• Lancôme Lash Idôle Waterproof — good if you want a lift-and-fan-out effect. (allure.com)
• Bobbi Brown No Smudge Mascara — reliable for sweat-proof wear. (allure.com)
• Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof — a fuller, more dramatic look. (yahoo.com)
• Gen See Spectator Sport Mascara — an editor-award winner praised for not budging in heat. (allure.com)

If you want, I can narrow this to best drugstore, best for sensitive eyes, or best for volume.

For straight lashes that need curl, look for curling, lightweight, waterproof or long-wear mascaras with a curved brush.

Best picks:

• Helena Rubinstein Lash Queen Feline Blacks – great lift and curl hold
• Lancôme Lash Idôle Waterproof – separates well, keeps curl
• Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl – made specifically for curl
• Maybelline Sky High Waterproof – strong lift for the price
• L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof – good hold and volume
• Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara Super Waterproof – excellent for stubborn straight lashes
• Shiseido ControlledChaos MascaraInk – clean lift, good staying power
• Benefit Roller Lash – very good for curl and separation

Quick tips:

• Use an eyelash curler first
• Choose waterproof if your lashes won’t hold curl
• Apply in thin layers to avoid weighing lashes down

If you want, I can also give you the best drugstore vs best luxury options.

For straight lashes, the best mascaras are usually the ones that lift, set fast, and don’t feel heavy—often waterproof or curl-hold formulas. (allure.com)

Top brand picks:

• Tower 28 — MakeWaves Mascara: great for a lifted look with a curved wand and curl-holding formula. (allure.com)
• Maybelline — The Falsies Volum’Express Flared Waterproof Mascara: a strong drugstore option for holding curl on short, straight lashes. (allure.com)
• Lancôme — Lash Idôle Curl / Lash-Lifting formulas: good if you want lift without a heavy feel. (allure.com)
• YSL Beauty — Lash Clash or Lash Latex: good for curl plus dramatic volume and staying power. (allure.com)
• e.l.f. — Lash ‘N Roll Mascara: budget-friendly and lightweight, with a curved brush that helps lift. (allure.com)
• Essence — Lash Princess False Lash Effect: a solid low-cost choice that helps hold curl better. (allure.com)

If you want, I can narrow it down to best drugstore, best waterproof, or best for stubbornly straight lashes.

Best lengthening mascaras with minimal clumping:

• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — great separation and length, very popular for a reason.
• L’Oréal Telescopic Original — one of the best for ultra-length and clean definition.
• Clinique Lash Power Mascara — very natural, lengthening, and rarely clumps.
• Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara — strong length and lift, good if you want a more dramatic look.
• Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions — tubing formula that helps prevent clumps and smudging.

If you want the safest bet, start with L’Oréal Telescopic or Maybelline Sky High. If you want, I can also suggest the best drugstore vs high-end options.

For lengthening without clumps, these are strong bets:

• Too Faced Ribbon Wrapped Lash Tubing Mascara — tubing formula, very separating, clump-resistant. (allure.com)
• Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara (XL too) — slim brush, lifted length, “zero clumps.” (allure.com)
• ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara — a top lengthening pick that editors say doesn’t clump. (allure.com)
• Clinique High Impact Zero Gravity Mascara — thin curved wand, very lengthening, no clumpiness. (womanandhome.com)
• L’Oréal Telescopic Mascara — a reliable drugstore option for definition and length without clumps. (makeuptutorials.com)
• Tower 28 MakeWaves Lengthening + Volumizing Mascara — praised for separating lashes cleanly. (glamour.com)

If you want the least clumpy finish, I’d start with Too Faced Ribbon Wrapped Lash or Tartelette Tubing. (allure.com)

If you want, I can also narrow this down to drugstore, clean beauty, or best for short lashes.

For thick eyebrows, you want a strong-hold brow gel that keeps hairs in place without flaking.

Best brow gel brands/products:

• Benefit Cosmetics 24-HR Brow Setter – one of the best for strong, all-day hold
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel – great for a laminated, brushed-up look
• Kosas Air Brow – good hold with a natural finish, also has fiber/tint options
• NYX The Brow Glue – budget-friendly and surprisingly strong
• Got2b Glued Styling Gel – ultra-strong hold if you want serious control
• Refy Brow Sculpt – excellent for thick brows and clean, lifted shaping
• Patrick Ta Major Brow Lamination Gel – strong hold with a polished finish

If you have very thick, coarse brows: Go for Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter, Refy Brow Sculpt, or Got2b Glued.

If you want a more natural look: Try Kosas Air Brow or Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel.

If you want, I can also give you the best brow gel for thick brows by budget.

For thick eyebrows, I’d look first at these brow-gel brands:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — best for strong hold and a laminated/brushed-up look. Allure named Brow Freeze Gel its best overall brow gel, and also praised the brand’s volumizing tinted gel for adding fullness. (allure.com)
• Benefit Cosmetics — great if you want either tint + volume (Gimme Brow+) or a clear setter (24-HR Brow Setter). Benefit says Gimme Brow+ uses fibers for hold and fullness, and 24-HR Brow Setter is a clear gel with up to 24 hours of hold. (benefitcosmetics.com)
• Rare Beauty — a strong pick for thick/coarse brows if you want a flexible, waterproof clear gel; the brand says the tapered brush is designed to coat even thick brow hairs. (rarebeauty.com)
• Göt2b — best budget “maximum hold” option. Allure’s 2025 Best of Beauty called it the best clear brow gel and said it’s exceptionally strong-holding. (allure.com)
• Kosas — good for a softer, fuller finish; Allure highlighted Air Brow for volume and hold, and Kosas says the clear version gives a laminated look that lasts all day. (allure.com)

Quick pick:

• Most hold: Göt2b or Anastasia Beverly Hills (allure.com)
• Best tinted fullness: Benefit Gimme Brow+ or Kosas Air Brow (benefitcosmetics.com)
• Best clear everyday: Rare Beauty Brow Harmony (rarebeauty.com)

If you want, I can narrow it down to drugstore vs luxury or clear vs tinted.

For sparse eyebrows, the best brow pencils are usually fine-tip, waxy enough to grip skin/hair, and a shade slightly lighter than your hair.

Good picks:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz — very precise, great for hair-like strokes.
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil — super popular for sparse areas, easy to control.
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil — best budget option, thin tip and good shade range.
• Kosas Brow Pop Nano — natural finish, nice for filling in thin brows.
• Charlotte Tilbury Brow Cheat — soft, realistic-looking definition.
• Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil — premium, smooth, long-lasting.

If you want the most natural look, I’d start with Brow Wiz or Precisely, My Brow. If you want affordable, go with NYX Micro Brow.

If you want, I can also recommend the best brow pencil by hair color (blonde, brunette, black, red).

For sparse eyebrows, the best brow pencils are usually micro-fine or angled formulas that can mimic tiny hairs without looking heavy. My top brand picks are:

• Glossier Boy Brow Arch — best overall for a soft, natural fill. (allure.com)
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer — great if you want a classic, fuller look with precise hair-like strokes. (allure.com)
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Microfine Pencil — best if you want a super-thin tip for sparse spots and detail work. (allure.com)
• Rare Beauty Brow Harmony Precision Eyebrow Pencil — a good blendable option for filling gaps naturally. (allure.com)
• Merit Brow 1990 — a strong micro-tip pick for very sparse brows and a clean, feathered finish. (allure.com)

If your brows are very sparse, I’d prioritize:

1. Ultra-fine tip
2. Buildable pigment
3. A spoolie on the other end
4. Neutral undertones so the fill doesn’t look harsh. (allure.com)

If you want, I can also give you the best drugstore and best luxury brow pencil picks.

For precise, sharp brow definition, these brow pomades are top picks:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade — the classic; very pigmented, long-wearing, great for crisp lines.
• Benefit Cosmetics Ka-BROW! — creamy with a built-in brush option, easy to control for clean definition.
• KVD Beauty Pomade Brow Pencil — strong hold and sharp structure if you want more control than a pot.
• NYX Professional Makeup Tame & Frame Brow Pomade — affordable, buildable, and good for defined brows.
• Morphe Micro Brow Pomade — precise, smooth, and budget-friendly for detailed shaping.
• Godefroy Brow Tint Kit — not a pomade in the usual sense, but excellent if you want long-lasting, defined brows with minimal daily effort.

If you want the best overall for precision, I’d start with Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade. If you want best budget option, go with NYX Tame & Frame.

If you want, I can also recommend the best pomade for oily skin, sparse brows, or natural-looking definition.

For precise definition, the strongest brow pomade brands are:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — DIPBROW is the classic pick for sharp, sculpted, highly defined brows; it’s a long-running best seller at Sephora and is specifically positioned for precision and smudge-proof wear. (sephora.com)
• Benefit Cosmetics — POWmade is a good choice if you want controlled application with a creamy formula; Sephora customers rate it well for longevity and application. (sephora.com)
• Glossier — Boy Brow Arch is better if you want precise definition without a harsh look; it’s a longwear pomade-pencil format, which makes detail work easier. (sephora.com)
• REFY — a solid newer option if you want clean, buildable structure; Sephora carries it in its brow-pomade edit alongside the more pro-leaning picks. (sephora.com)

If you want, I can also rank these by best for beginners, best for oily skin, or best dupe for Dipbrow.

For hooded eyes, look for smudge-proof, long-wear, and curl-holding mascaras. Good options:

• Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara – dramatic, holds curl well
• Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara – volumizing and long-lasting
• L’Oréal Paris Lash Paradise Waterproof Mascara – affordable and reliable
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara – separates well, less transfer
• Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara Super Waterproof – excellent for hooded lids and humidity
• Caliray Come Hell or High Water Volumizing Tubing Mascara – tubing formula, great for no-smudge wear
• Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara – tubing, very hooded-eye friendly
• Clinique Lash Power Mascara – clean, minimal smudge, good for everyday

Quick tip: for hooded eyes, waterproof or tubing mascaras usually work best. Avoid very wet formulas at first—they tend to imprint on the lid.

For hooded eyes, look for waterproof or tubing formulas and a thin/curved wand—they’re less likely to smudge or transfer onto the lid. (marieclaire.com)

Good brands/products to try:

• ILIA Limitless Lash Mascara — thin dual-sided wand; great for lift + separation. (whowhatwear.com)
• Caliray Come Hell or High Water — tubing mascara that stays clean and buildable. (marieclaire.com)
• L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Waterproof — skinny wand that reaches inner/outer corners well. (allure.com)
• Maybelline Lash Discovery Waterproof — budget-friendly waterproof pick for hooded eyes. (marieclaire.com)
• Clinique Lash Power — long-wearing option often recommended for hooded lids. (marieclaire.com)
• Dior Diorshow Pump ’N’ Volume Waterproof — a pricier waterproof option. (marieclaire.com)

If you want, I can narrow this down to drugstore, clean beauty, or best for dramatic volume.

For a natural brow look, these are some of the best tinted brow gels:

• Glossier Boy Brow — very natural, soft hold, subtle tint
• Benefit Gimme Brow+ — good volume and color, still looks believable
• Kosas Air Brow Tinted Volumizing Gel — fluffy, clean-looking finish
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Tinted Brow Gel — stronger hold, good if you want a polished natural look
• NYX The Brow Glue Tinted — affordable, good tint and hold
• L’Oréal Paris Unbelieva-Brow — long-wearing and fairly natural once applied lightly

If you want the most “your brows but better,” I’d start with Glossier Boy Brow, Kosas Air Brow, or Benefit Gimme Brow+.

If you want, I can also rank them by best drugstore, best for sparse brows, or best for dark brows.

For a natural look, the best tinted brow gels are usually the ones that add soft color, light hold, and a fluffy finish rather than a stiff, laminated effect. My top picks:

• Kosas Air Brow — best all-around for a soft, natural finish; lightweight and fluffy. (glamour.com)
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Volumizing Tinted Brow Gel — great if you want fuller brows that still look believable; a 2025 award winner. (allure.com)
• Glossier Boy Brow — excellent for an understated, groomed look and a strong shade range. (allure.com)
• Benefit Gimme Brow+ — a classic for thin or sparse brows; adds subtle tint and fibers for a fuller-but-natural effect. (glamour.com)
• Merit Brow 1980 — especially nice if you want a soft, feathery finish with a little more structure. (glamour.com)

If you want the most natural-looking option, I’d start with Kosas Air Brow or Glossier Boy Brow. If you want more volume but still soft, go with Anastasia Beverly Hills or Benefit Gimme Brow+. (allure.com)

If you want, I can also narrow these down by budget, shade (blonde/brunette/red), or drugstore vs prestige.

For bottom lashes, the best mascaras are usually small-wand, smudge-proof, and easy to build lightly. Good picks:

• Clinique Bottom Lash Mascara — literally made for lower lashes; tiny brush, very precise.
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof — great separation, no clumps, very good for lower lashes.
• Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara Super Waterproof — extremely smudge-proof and holds well all day.
• Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara — tubing formula = less smearing under the eyes.
• Benefit Roller Lash — slim brush and clean definition.
• Lancôme Définicils — elegant, separated look without much bulk.
• Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect — budget-friendly, but use a light hand for bottom lashes.

If you want, I can also give you the best waterproof options, best drugstore picks, or best mascaras for short bottom lashes.

For bottom lashes, the best bets are brands with tiny/slim wands, tubing formulas, and smudge-proof wear:

• Lancôme Lash Idôle — great for precise lower-lash application; Sephora notes its curved wand and 360 micro-size bristles are designed to grab even very small lashes without clumping or smudging. (sephora.com)
• tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara — a strong pick if you want clean, defined bottom lashes and easy removal; Sephora’s tubing-mascara page highlights tartelette as a top tubing option. (sephora.com)
• L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Waterproof — one of the best drugstore options for bottom lashes because Allure calls out its long, skinny, flexible wand and short-lash-friendly precision. (allure.com)
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — a good budget choice with a tapered wand that helps coat each lash evenly and a smudge-proof formula. (allure.com)
• CoverGirl Eye Enhancer Wrap Tubing Mascara — especially good if you want a small, tapered brush for tiny lashes and easy, warm-water removal. (allure.com)

If you want the shortest answer: Lancôme, L’Oréal Paris, and tarte are my top 3 for bottom lashes. (sephora.com)

If you want, I can also give you the best waterproof or best drugstore picks only.

For men, the best brow brands are usually the ones with natural shades, easy application, and a matte finish. Good picks:

• Glossier — Boy Brow

Very natural, subtle, “just groomed” look.

• M·A·C — Brow Set or Pro Brow Definer

Great if you want more control and salon-quality color options.

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz or Clear Brow Gel

Strong for shaping and filling without looking heavy.

• Benefit — Gimme Brow+

Best for quick, natural thickening.

• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil

Best budget option, easy to use and looks natural.

• e.l.f. — Brow Lift or Instant Lift Brow Pencil

Affordable and good for a clean, groomed finish.

If you want the most natural beginner-friendly choice: Glossier Boy Brow or NYX Micro Brow Pencil.

The best brow brands for men are usually the ones that make natural-looking, low-fuss products—not “men’s” products specifically. My top picks:

• Stryx — best if you want a men-focused brand with discreet grooming products, including a brow/beard gel comb. (stryx.com)
• Gentlehomme — another men’s grooming brand with a clear eyebrow gel made for subtle hold. (gentlehomme.com)
• Anastasia Beverly Hills — best overall brow brand for strong but polished hold; a common editor favorite. (vogue.com)
• Benefit — great for a clean, easy brow-gel look and very beginner-friendly. (vogue.com)
• Glossier — best for a soft, fuller, “just brushed” finish. (whowhatwear.com)
• NYX — best budget option if you just want solid hold without spending much. (whowhatwear.com)

If you want the simplest answer: Natural/undetectable: Glossier or Gentlehomme. Best hold: Anastasia Beverly Hills or Benefit. Best men-specific brand: Stryx. (stryx.com)

If you want, I can also narrow this down to clear gels, tinted gels, or pencils.

Some of the best travel-sized mascaras are:

• Benefit BADgal BANG! Mini – great for volume without clumps
• Benefit Roller Lash Mini – best for curl and lift
• Too Faced Better Than Sex Mini – very dramatic volume
• Mini Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High – lengthening and budget-friendly
• Mini Lancôme Monsieur Big – rich volume, luxe pick
• Mini Dior Diorshow Mascara – very polished, high-end option
• Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes Mini – a good all-around everyday mascara
• Milk Makeup Kush Mascara Mini – soft volume, easy to wear

If you want, I can also narrow these down by best for volume, length, waterproof, or sensitive eyes.

Best travel-sized mascara brands right now:

• tarte — strong mini lineup, especially mini Maneater, mini Lights, Camera, Lashes, and mini Tartelette tubing. (sephora.com)
• Too Faced — the travel size Better Than Sex mini is a classic for volume; there’s also a mini waterproof version. (ulta.com)
• HUDA BEAUTY — good if you want drama and length, with minis like LEGIT LASHES and 1 Coat WOW!. (sephora.com)
• Sephora Collection — best budget-friendly pick; Mini Size Up Volumizing Mascara is only about $9. (sephora.com)
• caliray — a great tubing option with a mini Come Hell or High Water mascara. (sephora.com)
• NARS — Mini Climax is a solid travel-size volume option. (sephora.com)
• IT Cosmetics — Mini Superhero is a good volumizing/lifting mini. (sephora.com)
• Rare Beauty — Mini Perfect Strokes is a nice everyday mini if you want a softer volumizing look. (sephora.com)

If you want, I can narrow this to best drugstore minis, best tubing minis, or best for sensitive eyes.

For mature eyes, the best mascaras are usually lengthening, lightweight, smudge-resistant, and easy to remove. Good picks:

• L’Oréal Paris Telescopic – great for clean length without clumps
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High – length + lift, very popular
• Lancôme Définicils – classic, natural-looking separation
• Clinique High Impact Mascara – gentle, reliable, good for sensitive eyes
• Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Mascara – adds volume without getting too heavy
• Blinc Original Tubing Mascara – excellent if you get smudging or flaking
• Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions – tubing formula, very mature-eye friendly
• Dior Diorshow – fuller lashes if you want a more dramatic look

If you want the best overall for mature eyes, I’d start with:

1. Blinc Original Tubing Mascara
2. Lancôme Définicils
3. L’Oréal Telescopic

If you want, I can also give you the best waterproof, best tubing, or best budget mascara for mature eyes.

Best bets for mature eyes: Thrive Causemetics, Jane Iredale, Ilia, Tarte, and Clinique. Experts in recent roundups favor lightweight, tubing, smudge-resistant, and easy-to-remove formulas for mature lashes, since they’re less likely to tug, flake, or irritate. (oprahdaily.com)

Quick picks:

• Thrive Causemetics — great for sensitive eyes; tubing, no flaking. (oprahdaily.com)
• Jane Iredale — strong tubing option; good for length without rubbing. (allure.com)
• Ilia — good if you want length and definition without stiffness. (allure.com)
• Tarte — good conditioning tubing mascara for healthy-looking lashes. (oprahdaily.com)
• Clinique High Impact — a solid choice for sensitive eyes/contact lens wearers. (harpersbazaar.com)

If you want, I can narrow this to best drugstore, best tubing, or best for sparse lashes.

For strong hold, these clear brow gels are some of the best:

1. NYX The Brow Glue – super strong hold, very affordable, great for laminated brow looks.
2. Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel – excellent all-day hold, more polished finish.
3. Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter – flexible but firm hold, very reliable and clean-looking.
4. Got2b Glued 2-in-1 Gel – extreme hold, cheapest option; use a light hand.
5. Refy Brow Sculpt – strong hold with a sleek, fluffy finish.

If you want the strongest hold overall, I’d pick NYX The Brow Glue or Got2b Glued. If you want best premium option, go with ABH Brow Freeze Gel or Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter.

If you want, I can also rank them by hold, finish, and flake-resistance.

For strong hold, these are the standouts right now:

1. Göt2b Glued 2-in-1 Brow & Edge Gel — probably the strongest hold pick; Allure’s 2025 Best of Beauty winner for clear brow gel. (allure.com)
2. Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel — very strong, lamination-like hold with a lighter feel and less flaking. (allure.com)
3. Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter Clear Brow Gel — reliable all-day hold with a cleaner, less crunchy finish. (allure.com)
4. L.A. Girl Brow Perfect Extreme Hold Styling Gel — good budget option if you want a firmer hold. (ulta.com)

If you want, I can also narrow these down by budget, laminated look, or no-flake formulas.

For separating lashes, the best mascaras are usually ones with small, comb-like brushes and a drying, non-clumping formula. Top picks:

• Clinique High Impact Mascara — very good for clean separation and definition
• Maybelline Lash Sensational — great drugstore option; fan brush helps fan out lashes
• L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Mascara — one of the best for length + separation
• Benefit They’re Real! — separates well and gives a more dramatic look
• Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara — excellent separation with a polished finish
• Lancôme Définicils — classic for neat, separated lashes

If you want the most separated, “lash-by-lash” look, I’d start with L’Oréal Telescopic or Clinique High Impact.

If you want, I can also recommend the best separating mascaras for straight lashes, short lashes, or sensitive eyes.

For separating lashes, these brands are strong bets:

• Charlotte Tilbury — especially Full Fat Lashes for a fluffy, defined look without clumping. (allure.com)
• CoverGirl — Clump Crusher is literally aimed at lifting and separating lashes. (allure.com)
• Lancôme — Lash Idôle gives a very separated, fanned-out finish; Allure calls out its separation. (allure.com)
• Kulfi Beauty — Badi Lash is a tubing mascara with a brush designed to gently separate. (allure.com)
• The Ordinary — Lash Curl Finisher is a clear mascara option if you want the most natural separation. (allure.com)

If you want, I can narrow it down to drugstore, waterproof, or best for short lashes.

For soft definition, the best brow powders are usually fine-milled, buildable, and slightly matte. Top picks:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Powder Duo – classic, soft, natural finish
• Bobbi Brown Brow Powder Duo – very natural and easy to diffuse
• MAC Eye Shadow in Omega / Brun – works great as a soft brow powder
• Benefit Brow Zings Pro Palette – good if you want powder + wax
• Hourglass Arch Brow Powder – smooth, elegant, natural-looking
• NYX Brow Cake Powder – affordable and surprisingly soft
• Kosas Air Brow Tinted Volumizing Brow Gel – not a powder, but gives a similar fluffy soft-definition look

If you want the most natural everyday look, I’d start with:

1. Bobbi Brown Brow Powder Duo
2. Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Powder Duo
3. Hourglass Arch Brow Powder

If you want, I can also recommend the best shade for your hair color.

For soft definition, the best brow powder brands are usually the ones with sheer, buildable, matte, natural-looking shades. Brow powder is generally better than pencils or pomades when you want a softer finish. (allure.com)

My top picks:

• Joey Healy — especially Luxe Brow Powder / Brow Powder. Allure repeatedly praises it for a “whisper-soft,” featherlight, buildable finish that adds structure without looking obvious. (allure.com)
• Sigma Beauty — Color Shape Brow Powder Duo. Good if you want to mix shades for a more customized, soft result. (allure.com)
• Laura Mercier — Brow Powder Duo. A solid classic for a matte, natural look without a waxy sheen. (allure.com)
• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Powder Duo. A longtime favorite for a soft, sheer finish that builds well and doesn’t smudge. (allure.com)

If you want, I can also narrow these down by drugstore vs. luxury, or by hair color/shade.

For a dramatic look, these mascaras are consistently top picks:

• Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara — very voluminous, bold, and thickening
• L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise — dramatic, fluffy lashes at a lower price
• Benefit BADgal BANG! — adds big volume without feeling too heavy
• Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara — intense volume and a very dark finish
• Maybelline Sky High — more length + lift, but still gives a striking look
• YSL Lash Clash — luxury option for maximum impact

If you want the most dramatic overall, I’d start with Too Faced Better Than Sex or Benefit BADgal BANG!.

For a dramatic look, these are strong picks:

• YSL Beauty Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara — very bold, high-volume finish. (vogue.com)
• MACStack Mascara — buildable if you want to layer from “full” to “really intense.” (vogue.com)
• Lancôme Monsieur Big — a classic for big, falsie-like volume. (vogue.com)
• L’Oréal Voluminous Mascara — great drugstore option for thick, dramatic lashes. (vogue.com)
• CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume — strong volume fast, also easy to layer. (vogue.com)

If you want, I can narrow these down by drugstore vs luxury, waterproof, or best for short lashes.

For oily skin, the best brow products are usually smudge-proof, waterproof, and long-wear. Good brands/products:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz (pencil) and Dipbrow Pomade
• Benefit Cosmetics — Precisely, My Brow Pencil and Gimme Brow+
• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil and Thick It. Stick It!
• Glossier — Boy Brow (great for a natural hold)
• Etude — Drawing Eye Brow (budget-friendly, lasts well)
• Maybelline — Brow Ultra Slim and TattooStudio Brow Gel

If you want the longest wear on oily skin, I’d start with:

1. Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade
2. Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil
3. NYX Micro Brow Pencil

Tip: for extra staying power, use a clear brow gel over a pencil or pomade.

For oily skin, the best brow brands are the ones with waterproof, smudge-proof, sweat-resistant formulas:

• Benefit Cosmetics — especially Precisely, My Brow, Goof Proof, and Gimme Brow+; they’re waterproof/smudge-proof and built for all-day wear. (benefitcosmetics.com)
• Rare Beauty — Brow Harmony Flexible Lifting Gel is waterproof and stands up to sweat and natural oils; the Precision Pencil is also long-lasting and waterproof. (rarebeauty.com)
• L’Oréal Paris — Brow Stylist Definer is waterproof, smudge-resistant, and explicitly described as suitable for oily skin; Unbelieva-Brow is a waterproof brow gel with strong longwear. (lorealparisusa.com)
• Anastasia Beverly Hills — a classic choice for brow products, with staples like Brow Wiz, DIPBROW Pomade, and Brow Freeze Gel in its brow lineup. (anastasiabeverlyhills.com)
• NYX — good if you want a budget option, but their Brow Glue Crazy Lift is only water-resistant, not waterproof. (nyxcosmetics.com)

If you want the shortest answer: Benefit, Rare Beauty, and L’Oréal Paris are the strongest picks for oily skin. (benefitcosmetics.com)

If you want, I can also narrow this down by pencil vs gel vs pomade or by drugstore vs prestige.

For makeup beginners, the best mascaras are usually easy to apply, not too wet, and don’t clump fast. Good picks:

• Maybelline Great Lash — classic, very beginner-friendly, easy to control
• L’Oréal Paris Lash Paradise — gives noticeable volume without being too tricky
• Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect — cheap, popular, and easy to use
• Clinique High Impact Mascara — simple, clean formula, good if you want low drama
• CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume — easy wand, good all-around beginner option

If you want:

• Natural look: Clinique High Impact, Maybelline Great Lash
• More volume: L’Oréal Lash Paradise, Essence Lash Princess
• Best drugstore starter: Maybelline Great Lash or Essence Lash Princess

If you want, I can also give you the best mascara for short lashes, straight lashes, or sensitive eyes.

For makeup beginners, I’d start with Maybelline, CoverGirl, L’Oréal Paris, Tarte, and Ilia. They’re repeatedly picked for easy application, low clumping, and simple removal. (allure.com)

Best beginner-friendly picks:

• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — flexible, tapered wand; easy to coat lashes evenly. (allure.com)
• CoverGirl Clump Crusher — specifically praised for lifting/separating lashes with minimal clumps. (allure.com)
• L’Oréal Paris Telescopic — precision brush, clean application, good if you want defined lashes. (allure.com)
• Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara — very beginner-friendly if you want less smudging and easier removal. (goodhousekeeping.com)
• Ilia Limitless Lash — double-sided wand helps separate and lengthen without much mess. (allure.com)

If you want the simplest starter choice, I’d pick Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High or CoverGirl Clump Crusher. (allure.com)

If you want, I can also narrow this to drugstore only, sensitive eyes, or best for short lashes.

If you want prestige-mascara alternatives, these are some of the best:

• L’Oréal Paris Lash Paradise — a great dupe for voluminous, fluffy lashes
• Maybelline Sky High — lengthening, separating, and very popular
• Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect — super affordable, dramatic volume
• CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume — strong volume and easy to build
• Too Faced Damn Girl! — if you still want a more “prestige” feel, but often less than top luxury brands
• Lancôme Définicils — a classic premium option for clean, separated lashes
• Benefit BADgal BANG! — best for big volume without heavy lashes
• Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes 4-in-1 — solid everyday prestige alternative

If you tell me the exact mascara brand/product you’re trying to replace, I can give you the closest dupes.

If you want prestige-mascara results for less, these are the best drugstore alternatives right now:

• Best overall/length: L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Waterproof — great for clean separation and long, defined lashes. (allure.com)
• Best lifted/dramatic look: Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — a strong pick if you want airy length and lift without splurging. (allure.com)
• Best volume: L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise — best if you want a fuller, more “falsies” style. (allure.com)
• Best budget waterproof: Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Waterproof — very cheap and well-liked for staying power. (allure.com)
• Best tubing option: Milani Highly Rated Lash Extensions Tubing Mascara — good if you want length with easy removal and less smudging. (allure.com)
• Best clump-free definition: CoverGirl Clump Crusher — strong for separation and a cleaner lash look. (allure.com)

If you want, I can also narrow these down to the best dupe for a specific prestige mascara like Lancôme, Dior, YSL, or Maybelline?

If you mean Benefit Gimme Brow+, the best alternatives are:

• NYX Thick It. Stick It! Brow Gel — great tinted hold, very similar “fluffy brow” effect
• e.l.f. Wow Brow Gel — budget-friendly, fibers for fullness, easy everyday wear
• L’Oréal Brow Stylist Boost & Set — strong hold with a more polished finish
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Tinted Brow Gel — pricier, but excellent color + hold
• Refy Brow Sculpt — for a laminated, ultra-snatched look
• Glossier Boy Brow — creamy, natural, soft hold if you like a less stiff finish

If you want, I can also give you the best match by finish: natural, fluffy, laminated, or waterproof.

If you mean Glossier Boy Brow, the best alternatives depend on the finish you want: (vogue.com)

• Most similar tinted, fluffy look: Benefit Gimme Brow+. (allure.com)
• Best strong-hold clear gel: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel. (vogue.com)
• Best drugstore dupe-ish option: NYX The Brow Glue. (vogue.com)
• Best soft, natural volume: Kosas Air Brow. (allure.com)
• Best for stubborn brows / max hold: Ardell Brow Glue or Göt2b Glued 2-in-1 Brow & Edge Gel. (vogue.com)

Quick pick:

• Natural + tinted: Benefit Gimme Brow+.
• Laminated hold: ABH Brow Freeze Gel.
• Budget: NYX The Brow Glue. (vogue.com)

If you want, I can narrow it down by clear vs tinted, drugstore vs luxury, or thin vs thick brows.

If you mean a high-end brow pencil like Anastasia Brow Wiz, Benefit Precisely, or Hourglass Arch, these are the best drugstore/affordable alternatives:

• NYX Micro Brow Pencil — best overall dupe for precise, hair-like strokes
• e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil — best budget option, easy to use
• L’Oréal Brow Stylist Definer — very fine tip, great for natural brows
• Maybelline Total Temptation Brow Definer — softer, more beginner-friendly
• Wet n Wild Ultimate Brow Micro Pencil — cheapest solid pick
• Milani Stay Put Brow Color — longer-lasting, good if you want more wear time

If you want, I can narrow it down by shade match, skin type, or whether you want a super-precise or softer brow look.

If you want a high-end brow-pencil alternative, these are the best bets:

• Best overall value: L’Oréal Paris Brow Stylist Definer — ultra-fine 0.5 mm tip, built-in spoolie, and waterproof; good if you like the “precise luxury pencil” feel without the luxury price. (lorealparisusa.com)
• Best budget dupe: ColourPop Precision Brow Pencil / Brow Boss Pencil — fine tip, spoolie, waterproof, and around $9. (colourpop.com)
• Best for ultra-natural hair-like strokes: Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil — 1.5 mm tip designed to mimic natural hairs. (benefitcosmetics.com)
• Best if you want a foolproof, fuller look: Benefit Goof Proof Brow Pencil — dual-edged tip, waterproof, and made for quick filling/defining. (benefitcosmetics.com)
• Best splurge alternative: Glossier Boy Brow Arch — 2-in-1 custom tip, water/smudge/transfer/sweat/humidity-resistant, and $24. (glossier.com)
• Best long-wear option: MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua Resist Brow Definer — waterproof, sweatproof, smudgeproof, humidityproof, and sebumproof. (makeupforever.com)

If you tell me the exact high-end brow pencil brand you’re trying to replace, I can give you the closest 1:1 dupe.

If you mean Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara, these are the best alternatives:

• L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise — very similar fluffy, high-volume effect; great drugstore dupe.
• Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes 4-in-1 Mascara — adds volume with a softer, more separated finish.
• Benefit Badgal Bang! — bigger impact volume and length, but less clumpy.
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — more length + volume, lighter feel, very popular.
• Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara — bold, dramatic volume with strong staying power.
• MILK Makeup Kush High Volume Mascara — rich, thick lash look with a creamier formula.

Best picks:

• Closest dupe: L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise
• Most dramatic: Lancôme Monsieur Big
• Best all-around: Benefit Badgal Bang!

If you want, I can narrow these down by drugstore vs luxury, waterproof, or best for straight lashes.

If you mean Too Faced Better Than Sex, the best alternatives are: (sephora.com)

• Lancôme Monsieur Big — similar big-volume payoff, a longtime favorite. (sephora.com)
• YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume — more luxury, very dramatic volume. (sephora.com)
• Benefit BADgal BANG! — bold volume with a lighter feel. (sephora.com)
• MAC Stack Mascara — buildable, clump-resistant volume. (allure.com)
• L’Oréal Panorama Mascara — best budget pick for volume. (allure.com)
• Chanel Le Volume de Chanel — luxe, intense, plush volume. (allure.com)

If you want, I can narrow these down by drugstore vs luxury, waterproof vs non-waterproof, or best for straight lashes.

If you mean Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade, the best alternatives are:

• Benefit Cosmetics Ka-Brow! Cream-Gel Eyebrow Color — very long-wearing, smudge-resistant, easy to build.
• NYX Professional Makeup Tame & Frame Brow Pomade — best budget pick; solid hold and good color range.
• KVD Beauty Super Pomade — highly pigmented, waterproof feel, good for sharp definition.
• e.l.f. Lock On Liner and Brow Cream — affordable and surprisingly durable; great starter option.
• Morphe Brow Cream — creamy, blendable, and long-lasting without getting too stiff.
• Makeup Revolution Brow Pomade — cheap, pigmented, and decent staying power.

If you want the closest high-end dupe, I’d start with Benefit Ka-Brow!. If you want best value, go with NYX Tame & Frame.

If you mean Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade, the best alternatives are:

• NYX Tame & Frame Brow Pomade — best budget-ish close match; very common ABH dupe pick. (nyxcosmetics.com)
• Maybelline Tattoo Studio Brow Pomade — strongest drugstore “long-wear” option; Maybelline positions it as up to 24HR wear. (maybelline.com)
• REFY Brow Pomade — cleaner, more modern option with a built-in brush; good if you want precision without a separate angled brush. (us.refybeauty.com)
• Tarte Frameworker Brow Pomade — best premium alternative if you want a creamier, more nourishing feel and very long wear. (ipsy.com)

My quick pick:

• Closest overall dupe: NYX Tame & Frame
• Best drugstore: Maybelline Tattoo Studio
• Best premium: Tarte Frameworker
• Best for ease of use: REFY

If you want, I can narrow these down by price, shade match, or most natural-looking vs most bold.

If you want something better than a typical premium lengthening mascara, these are usually stronger bets:

• L’Oréal Telescopic Lift Mascara — excellent length and separation
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — dramatic length, very popular
• Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara — more volume, but still gives major lash impact
• Clinique Lash Power Mascara — tubing formula, clean length, great for no-smudge wear
• Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions — tubing effect, very lengthening
• Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara — strong definition and lift
• Tower 28 MakeWaves Mascara — softer, clean look with good length

If you want the best overall length, I’d start with Telescopic Lift or Sky High. If you want long wear with zero smudging, try Clinique Lash Power or Thrive Liquid Lash Extensions.

If you tell me your lash type (short, straight, sparse, oily lids, etc.), I can narrow it to the best one.

If you want something better than a basic premium lengthening mascara, I’d look at these:

• Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara — best all-around “lash extensions” effect: length + volume + definition. (vogue.com)
• Tarte Tartelette XL Tubing Mascara — great if you want length plus better wear and easier removal. (allure.com)
• Lancôme Lash Idôle — strong pick for short/thin lashes; gives lift and volume with a curved wand. (vogue.com)
• L’Oréal Telescopic — best budget option for very separated, long lashes. (vogue.com)
• Tower 28 MakeWaves — softer, more natural length with hold, good for sensitive eyes. (vogue.com)

If you mean “better” as in more dramatic, go with Hourglass or Lancôme. If you mean cleaner, smudge-resistant, and easier to remove, go with Tarte tubing or Merit Clean Lash. (vogue.com)

If you want, I can narrow this to drugstore, luxury, or best for straight lashes.

Usually these beat a luxury tinted brow gel in performance:

• Benefit Gimme Brow+ — best all-around tinted volume and hold
• Kosas Air Brow Tinted Volumizing Treatment Gel — fluffier, more natural finish
• REFY Brow Sculpt — strongest hold, very laminated look
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel — excellent hold for full brows
• Glossier Boy Brow — softer, creamier, natural definition
• NYX Thick It. Stick It! — budget-friendly and surprisingly good

If you want the best overall brow setup, a pencil + clear gel often beats any tinted gel:

• Anastasia Brow Wiz
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil

If you tell me your brow type (sparse, thick, stubborn, thin), I can narrow it to the best 2–3.

Usually, yes — a brow pencil + clear gel is better than a luxury tinted gel if you want more shape, precision, and control. My top picks:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz + Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter: best if you want clean, hair-like detail and strong hold. (anastasiabeverlyhills.com)
• Rare Beauty Brow Harmony Precision Pencil + Brow Harmony Flexible Lifting Gel: best for a softer, polished look with flexible hold. (rarebeauty.com)
• Glossier Boy Brow Arch: best if you still want the easy “my brows but better” vibe, but with more precision than a basic tinted gel. (glossier.com)

If you want, I can narrow it down to best for sparse brows, thick brows, or all-day hold.

If you mean top alternatives to a classic waterproof mascara, these are the best picks:

• Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof — dramatic volume, very reliable hold
• Benefit BADgal BANG! Waterproof — length + lift, good for all-day wear
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof — best drugstore all-rounder
• L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Waterproof — softer, fluffy volume
• Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara — tubing-style, easiest to remove
• Caliray Come Hell or High Water Mascara — great smudge-proof tubing option
• MACStack Waterproof Mascara — buildable, bold, and long-wearing

If you want, I can narrow it down to:

1. best drugstore,
2. best for sensitive eyes, or
3. best for length vs volume.

If you mean waterproof mascara fan-favorites, good alternatives are:

• L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Waterproof — best for length and separation. (allure.com)
• CoverGirl Clump Crusher Waterproof — best if you want definition with minimal clumping. (allure.com)
• Gen See Spectator Sport Mascara — a newer standout for sweat/weather-proof wear. (allure.com)
• MAC Stack Waterproof Mascara — a strong pick if you want buildable volume with long staying power. (allure.com)
• YSL Lash Clash Waterproof Mascara — best splurge option for dramatic volume. (allure.com)
• Clarins Lash + Brow Double Fix Mascara — great if you want a clear waterproof topcoat. (allure.com)

If you want, I can narrow these down by drugstore vs luxury, or by lengthening / volumizing / sensitive eyes.

If you want smudge-proof brow staples, the best alternatives are usually:

• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil — very close to a classic “everyday brow pencil,” but better longevity.
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz — a cult staple for fine, natural strokes; use with a brow gel for more smudge resistance.
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil — best budget dupe-style option.
• Kosas Air Brow Gel — if you want hold + tint in one; less pencil-like, more “fluffy” brow.
• Dibs The Brow Pencil — solid long-wear option with a soft natural finish.
• e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil — cheap, reliable, and surprisingly good for the price.

If you mean the most smudge-proof option overall, try:

• Maybelline TattooStudio Brow Tint Pen
• REFY Brow Sculpt
• Brow Fix brow gel + pencil combo from Benefit or Anastasia

If you want, I can narrow it down by budget, very oily skin, or most natural-looking.

If your go-to is a smudge-proof brow staple, the best alternatives are usually:

• Brow pen for hair-like strokes: NYX Eyebrow Tint Pen or Anastasia Beverly Hills Microstroke Brow Pen. Brow pens are a strong swap if you want precision and natural definition. (vogue.com)
• Tinted brow gel for fast, fluffy brows: Benefit Gimme Brow, REFY Brow Sculpt, or L’Oréal Unbelieva-Brow. These are commonly praised for long wear and transfer-resistant hold. (parade.com)
• Brow pencil for control and shaping: IT Cosmetics Brow Power Micro or Chanel Crayon Sourcils. Pencils are the easiest option if you want clean, smudge-resistant shaping. (vogue.com)
• Brow pomade for maximum staying power: Maybelline TattooStudio Brow Pomade or NYX Tame & Frame. Pomades tend to give the most pigment and staying power. (findthisbest.com)

If you want, I can narrow this to drugstore, luxury, or best for sparse brows.

If you mean professional brow makeup brands, the best alternatives are:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — best all-around for pencils, pomades, and powders
  • Try: Brow Wiz, Dipbrow Pomade
• Benefit Cosmetics — easiest for beginners, very reliable
  • Try: Precisely, My Brow Pencil, Gimme Brow+
• NYX Professional Makeup — best budget option
  • Try: Micro Brow Pencil, Tame & Frame Brow Pomade
• KOSAS — great for a softer, more natural look
  • Try: Brow Pop Nano
• Hourglass — premium, polished finish
  • Try: Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil
• MAC — strong pro-makeup staple
  • Try: Veluxe Brow Liner, Brow Set
• Refy — best for laminated, fluffy brows
  • Try: Brow Sculpt, Brow Tint
• KVD Beauty — good for bold, long-wear brows
  • Try: Signature Brow Pomade

Best picks by need:

• Most natural: Benefit, Kosas
• Best pro/long-wear: Anastasia, MAC, KVD
• Best budget: NYX
• Best fluffy/lifted brows: Refy

If you want, I can narrow it down to the best dupe for one specific brow brand/product.

If you mean Anastasia Beverly Hills, the best alternatives depend on the finish you want:

• Most similar overall: Benefit Precisely, My Brow or Glossier Boy Brow Arch for natural, hair-like definition. (allure.com)
• Best for sparse brows: Maybelline Build-A-Brow Pen for realistic strokes, or Benefit Gimme Brow+ for fuller-looking brows with fibers. (whowhatwear.com)
• Best for soft/full brows: Rare Beauty Brow Harmony Precision Eyebrow Pencil or ABH Brow Powder Duo if you like a softer, more blended look. (allure.com)
• Best strong-hold gel: E.l.f Brow Lift for budget hold, or Benefit Mighty Fine Brow Pen if you want ultra-precise definition. (whowhatwear.com)

If you want, I can narrow it down to drugstore, luxury, or best for thin brows.

A few things usually cause mascara clumping: old mascara, too much product on the wand, and layering too fast.

Try this:

• Wipe the wand first: scrape off extra mascara on the tube rim or a tissue.
• Use thinner coats: 1–2 light coats, not many thick ones.
• Wait between coats: let the first coat get tacky before adding another.
• Comb lashes: use a clean spoolie or lash comb right after applying.
• Don’t pump the wand: it pushes in air and dries the mascara faster.
• Replace old mascara: every 3 months is best.

If you want less clumping, these are good options:

• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — separates well and stays smooth.
• L’Oréal Telescopic Original — great for defined, non-clumpy lashes.
• Clinique High Impact Mascara — a cleaner, more even formula.
• Glossier Lash Slick — very natural, minimal clump risk.

If your lashes are naturally “sticky,” a lash primer can help:

• L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Primer
• Clinique Lash Building Primer

If you want, I can also recommend the best non-clumpy mascara based on your lash type: short, straight, sparse, or thick.

Try this:

• Wipe excess off the wand on the tube rim or a tissue.
• Don’t pump the wand in and out; that pushes in air and dries the mascara.
• Use a lash comb/spoolie right after applying.
• Apply in thin coats instead of one thick layer.
• Let each coat set for a few seconds before the next.
• Replace old mascara every 3–6 months; drying formula clumps more.
• Avoid overloading the brush if you’re using a very wet formula.

If it still clumps, the mascara formula may just not suit your lashes—some people do better with a lengthening, lightweight formula rather than a thick volumizing one.

Brow gel flakes mostly when you use too much product or it’s layering badly with skincare/makeup.

Try this:

• Use less product: wipe extra gel off the wand before applying.
• Apply to clean, dry brows: let moisturizer, sunscreen, and foundation fully set first.
• Skip heavy buildup: if you already filled brows with pencil/powder, use a light gel layer on top.
• Comb in one direction: brush brows up and slightly outward, then leave them alone.
• Choose better formulas:
  • Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter — strong hold, usually doesn’t flake.
  • NYX The Brow Glue — good hold, but use a tiny amount.
  • Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel — strong, clean finish if applied sparingly.
  • e.l.f. Wow Brow — lighter, more natural, less likely to crust up.

If you want, I can also suggest the best flake-free brow gel for laminated, fluffy, or natural brows.

Try this:

• Use less product — flaking usually means too much gel.
• Apply on clean brows — no old makeup, oil, or skincare buildup.
• Let skincare set first — especially moisturizer, sunscreen, or foundation.
• Comb through once or twice — over-brushing can make the gel pill.
• Choose a non-crunchy gel — some strong-hold formulas dry flaky.
• Don’t layer over powdery products — powder under brow gel can cause clumps.
• Replace old gel — dried-out tubes flake more.

Quick fix: if your gel is flaky now, wipe brows clean and reapply a tiny amount with a spoolie.

If you want, I can also recommend brow gels that don’t flake.

For the most natural look, use a fine brow pencil + tinted brow gel.

Good products

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz – very precise, natural hair-like strokes
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil – similar, easy to use
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil – budget-friendly and natural-looking
• Glossier Boy Brow – soft, fluffy finish
• Benefit Gimme Brow+ – tinted fiber gel for filling and setting

How to do it

1. Choose a shade slightly lighter than your brow hair if unsure.
2. Brush brows upward with a spoolie.
3. With the pencil, draw tiny hair-like strokes only where brows are sparse.
4. Focus on the tail and gaps, not the whole brow.
5. Use a tinted gel to add fullness and hold hairs in place.
6. Blend again with a spoolie so it looks soft, not drawn on.

Natural-looking tip

• Avoid harsh outlines or a very dark shade.
• If your brows are very sparse, a brow powder can look softer than pencil.

If you want, I can recommend the best option based on your hair color and budget.

To fill sparse eyebrows naturally:

• Use a fine brow pencil or pen in a shade close to your hair color.
• Draw tiny hair-like strokes only where needed, following your natural direction.
• Start light and build slowly; don’t create a solid block.
• Use a tinted brow gel to add fullness and hold hairs in place.
• Brush through with a spoolie to soften lines and blend everything.
• Concentrate on the arch and tail, leaving the front softer and lighter.
• Set with clear gel if you want a more natural, groomed finish.

For a very natural look, try products like:

• Anastasia Brow Wiz
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil
• Glossier Boy Brow
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil

If you want, I can also give you a 3-minute brow routine or help you pick a shade.

To keep mascara on all day without smudging:

• Start with oil-free eye area: Any leftover moisturizer, sunscreen, or concealer on lashes can cause transfer.
• Use a lash primer: Try L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Primer or Too Faced Better Than Sex Foreplay Primer.
• Choose a tubing or waterproof mascara: Best for smudge resistance. Good options:
  • Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions
  • Caliray Come Hell or High Water
  • L’Oréal Double Extend Tubing Mascara
  • Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof
• Apply thin coats: Too much product = more smudging. Let each coat dry a bit.
• Avoid the lower lashes if you smudge easily: Or use a very light coat.
• Set under-eyes with powder: Use a tiny bit of Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder or e.l.f. Halo Glow Setting Powder.
• Don’t touch/rub your eyes: Biggest cause of transfer.
• Use a lash comb: Helps remove clumps that can smear later.

If you want the most smudge-proof combo, I’d go with L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Primer + Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions.

Try this:

• Start with clean, dry lashes — no eye cream on lashes.
• Use a lash primer or a tiny bit of translucent powder on lids.
• Choose a long-wear / waterproof mascara if smudging is a big issue.
• Apply thin coats and let each coat dry.
• Wipe excess product off the wand before applying.
• Curl lashes first so mascara doesn’t transfer from weighted lashes touching lids.
• Set your under-eyes and lids with a light dusting of powder.
• Avoid oily skincare around the eyes.
• Use a tubing mascara if you want the least smudge-prone option.

If it still smudges, the culprit is usually oily eyelids, too much mascara, or mascara touching the upper lid. If you want, I can recommend a few specific mascaras that hold up best.

For fuller-looking brows that still look natural, aim for soft definition + hair-like strokes + a hold gel.

Best products

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz — super fine pencil for tiny hair-like gaps.
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil — very natural, easy to control.
• Glossier Boy Brow — adds fluff and volume without looking drawn on.
• NYX The Brow Glue — strong hold if your brows are sparse or flat.
• L’Oréal Unbelieva-Brow — tinted, long-wear, more structured but can still look natural with a light hand.

Easy routine

1. Brush brows up with a spoolie.
2. Fill only sparse spots using short, light strokes—don’t outline the whole brow.
3. Use a tinted brow gel to add thickness and texture.
4. Set the front of the brow upward and brush the tail slightly outward.

Tips to keep them natural

• Choose a shade close to your brow hair, or one shade lighter if you have dark brows.
• Focus on the middle and tail, leaving the front softer.
• Avoid super-dark pomades unless you’re going for a bolder look.
• Less product = more natural.

If you want, I can also give you a “5-minute natural brow routine” for your brow type (thin, patchy, blonde, or thick).

Use light, hair-like definition instead of filling every gap.

Best approach:

• Brush brows up with a spoolie first.
• Use a fine-tip brow pencil or tinted brow pen in a shade close to your natural brow hair.
• Draw tiny, upward strokes only where brows are sparse.
• Focus on the tail and lower edge; leave the top softer.
• Add a tinted brow gel to fluff and hold without looking painted on.
• Blend with a spoolie so no line looks harsh.

To avoid the fake look:

• Don’t use a color that’s too dark.
• Don’t outline the whole brow.
• Keep the front of the brow lighter and more diffused.
• Skip heavy pomades unless you want a very bold look.

Good product types:

• Pencil: micro-tip
• Gel: tinted volumizing brow gel
• Pen: finer “hair stroke” pen for sparse areas only

If you want, I can give you a 3-step routine for your brow type: thin, sparse, or overplucked.

Use an oil-based eye makeup remover and let it do the work—don’t rub.

Good products:

• Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover for Lids, Lashes & Lips
• Bioderma Sensibio H2O Eye
• Lancôme Bi-Facil
• e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm
• The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm

How to do it:

1. Soak a cotton pad with remover.
2. Hold it over your closed eye for 10–20 seconds.
3. Gently swipe downward; repeat with a fresh pad if needed.
4. Follow with a gentle cleanser if you want to remove residue.
5. Don’t tug, scrub, or use hot water.

Extra tip: If your lashes are getting brittle, use a lash serum like RevitaLash Advanced or GrandeLASH-MD.

Use an oil-based remover and go slow.

1. Soak a cotton pad with micellar water for waterproof makeup, cleansing oil, or biphasic eye makeup remover.
2. Hold it on your closed eye for 20–30 seconds to dissolve the mascara.
3. Gently wipe downward—don’t rub back and forth.
4. Repeat with a fresh pad until clean.
5. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.

Tips to protect lashes:

• Don’t pull off dry mascara.
• Avoid waterproof mascara daily if your lashes are fragile.
• Use a lash conditioner or plain petrolatum very lightly on lashes after cleansing if your eyes tolerate it.

If you want, I can recommend a few good removers by brand.

To keep brow pencil from looking too dark:

• Use lighter shade: Choose a pencil 1–2 shades lighter than your hair/brow color.
• Apply with a light hand: Use tiny hair-like strokes, not one solid line.
• Start sparse: Fill only gaps first, then build slowly.
• Blend well: Brush through with a spoolie after every few strokes.
• Use less product on the front of the brow: Keep the inner brow softer and darker toward the arch/tail.
• Set with a tinted gel: This softens pencil and makes brows look more natural.

Good products:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz — very fine tip, easy to control
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil — affordable and natural-looking
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil — soft, realistic strokes

If your brows still look too harsh, try a brow powder instead of pencil for a softer finish.

Try these:

• Go lighter: use a shade 1–2 tones lighter than your brow hair.
• Use softer pressure: light, feathery strokes only.
• Choose a warmer/ashier shade: avoid overly cool black-brown.
• Set with clear or tinted brow gel: it softens the pencil look.
• Blend with spoolie: brush through after applying.
• Apply less to the front: keep the inner brow the lightest part.
• Use pencil only where needed: fill sparse spots, not the whole brow.

If you want, I can also give you a quick brow routine for natural-looking brows.

Mascara flakes under the eyes usually mean the formula is drying out, smudging from oil, or too much product is being applied. Try this:

• Switch mascara: Use a tubing mascara or a long-wear formula. Good options:
  • Clinique Lash Power Mascara
  • L’Oréal Double Extend Tubing Mascara
  • Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions
• Don’t overcoat: Apply 1–2 thin coats, letting the first dry a bit.
• Replace old mascara: Toss it after about 3 months.
• Set your under-eyes: Use a little translucent powder under the eyes to reduce transfer.
• Avoid oily eye creams near lashes: They can break down mascara.
• Curl lashes first: It helps mascara stay put without needing extra layers.
• Use a mascara primer: Try L’Oréal Lash Primer or Lancôme Cils Booster.

If the flakes are actually dry skin rather than mascara, gently exfoliate the under-eye area and use a lighter eye cream.

If you want, I can suggest the best mascara for oily lids, watery eyes, or sensitive eyes.

Try this:

• Use less mascara: 1–2 thin coats, not multiple heavy layers.
• Switch formulas: try a tubing mascara or a smudge-proof/water-resistant one.
• Set your under-eyes: a tiny bit of translucent powder can help.
• Avoid oily eye cream near the lash line.
• Let mascara dry fully before blinking hard or applying lower-lash mascara.
• Clean up flakes with a dry cotton swab or fluffy brush instead of rubbing.

If it keeps happening, your mascara may be old or dried out—replace it.

If you want, I can recommend a few mascaras that are good for no-flake wear.

Use a clear brow gel or brow wax with good hold.

Best options:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze — strongest hold, great for laminated/fluffy brows
• NYX The Brow Glue — budget-friendly, very strong hold
• Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter — flexible hold, less crunchy
• Got2b Glued Spiking Gel — very strong, use a tiny amount

How to apply:

1. Start with clean brows (no face oil or moisturizer on them).
2. Brush brows upward with a spoolie.
3. Apply a small amount of product on the spoolie, then comb through.
4. Press hairs into place with the spoolie or finger.
5. Let it dry completely before touching.

For extra hold:

• Set with a tiny bit of translucent powder first if your skin gets oily
• Use a brow pencil/powder first, then gel on top
• Avoid heavy creams around the brow area

If you want, I can recommend the best one for thick, thin, or stubborn brows.

Use a clear brow gel or strong-hold brow wax:

1. Clean brows first — no oil/skincare residue.
2. Brush hairs up and outward with a spoolie.
3. Apply a tiny amount of product; less is more.
4. Press hairs into place with the spoolie or fingertip.
5. Let it set completely before touching.

For extra hold:

• Tinted gel for light control
• Soap brow / brow wax for laminated, stronger hold
• Brow pencil + gel if you have sparse areas

Good hold products people like:

• NYX The Brow Glue
• Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter
• e.l.f. Brow Lift
• Got2b Glued for very strong hold

If your brows still fall, tell me if they’re straight, thick, sparse, or oily and I’ll suggest the best method.

Pick mascara/brow products based on your natural features and the look you want, not just face shape.

Mascara: choose by lash type + eye shape

• Short lashes: use a lengthening mascara
  • Good picks: Benefit They’re Real!, L’Oréal Telescopic, Maybelline Lash Sensational
• Straight lashes: choose a curl-holding mascara and use a lash curler first
  • Good picks: Lancôme Lash Idôle, Shiseido Eyelash Curler + any waterproof mascara, Clinique High Impact Waterproof
• Sparse lashes: go for a volumizing mascara
  • Good picks: Too Faced Better Than Sex, Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions, CoverGirl Lash Blast
• Sensitive eyes: look for ophthalmologist-tested or tubing formulas
  • Good picks: Clinique High Impact, Caliray Come Hell or High Water, Thrive Mascara

Brow products: choose by brow density + desired finish

• Thin/sparse brows: use a pencil or fine-tip pen
  • Good picks: Anastasia Brow Wiz, Benefit Precisely, My Brow, NYX Micro Brow Pencil
• Full but messy brows: use a clear or tinted gel
  • Good picks: Benefit Gimme Brow+, NYX Thick It. Stick It!, Glossier Boy Brow
• Very bare spots: use a brow pen + gel combo
  • Try: NYX Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen + Benefit Gimme Brow+
• Want a soft, natural look: choose powder or a pencil with a spoolie
  • Good picks: Anastasia Brow Powder Duo, e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil

Quick rule

• More definition: pencil/pen
• More fullness: volumizing mascara + brow gel
• More natural: tubing mascara + brow pencil/powder

If you want, I can recommend the best mascara and brow product for your exact features if you tell me: 1) lash type, 2) brow density, 3) eye shape, and 4) whether you want natural or dramatic.

Quick rule: choose by what you want to emphasize and your natural coloring.

Mascara

• Small/deep-set eyes: lengthening, separating, lighter formula.
• Sparse lashes: volumizing, fiber-free if you get clumps.
• Straight lashes: curl-first, waterproof if your curl won’t hold.
• Sensitive eyes: fragrance-free / ophthalmologist-tested.
• Natural look: brown/black-brown.
• Bold look: black.

Brow product

• Sparse brows: pencil for shape + tinted gel to add fullness.
• Thick brows: clear gel or brow wax to control.
• Patchy brows: fine-tip pencil or micro brow pen.
• Soft definition: brow powder.
• Sharp/defined: pencil with a thin tip.

Match to your face

• Round face: slightly angled, fuller brows can add lift.
• Long face: straighter brows can balance length.
• Heart-shaped face: soft, rounded arch works well.
• Square face: soft-angled brows are usually flattering.
• Oval face: most brow shapes work.

Easy buying shortcut

• If your features are soft, go softer formulas and shades.
• If your features are strong or your makeup is more dramatic, go deeper shades and more definition.

If you want, I can recommend specific mascara and brow products based on your eye shape, brow thickness, and hair color.

Good mascara brands usually cost about $10–$35.

Quick breakdown:

• Drugstore: $10–$15

Examples: L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise, Maybelline Lash Sensational, CoverGirl Lash Blast

• Mid-range: $16–$25

Examples: Too Faced Better Than Sex, Benefit They’re Real!, Clinique High Impact Mascara

• Prestige/luxury: $26–$35+

Examples: Lancôme Monsieur Big, Dior Diorshow, YSL Lash Clash

If you want, I can also recommend the best mascaras by goal—length, volume, curl, or waterproof.

Good mascara usually costs:

• Drugstore: about $8–$15 (e.g., Maybelline Lash Sensational is $13.99; Sky High is $13.99). (ulta.com)
• Midrange/prestige: about $22–$30 (e.g., Benefit They’re Real! is $29; Too Faced Better Than Sex is $29). (sephora.com)
• Higher-end/specialty: about $32–$39 (e.g., Too Faced Naturally Better Than Sex is $32; the waterproof version is $39). (sephora.com)

A solid budget is around $15–$30 per tube. If you want, I can also recommend the best mascara brands by goal: length, volume, curl, or waterproof.

Brow gel usually averages about $10–$20 USD.

• Drugstore: around $5–$12
• Mid-range/Sephora brands: around $15–$25
• High-end: $25+

Popular options:

• e.l.f. Wow Brow — about $6
• NYX The Brow Glue — about $9
• Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter — about $26
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel — about $22

If you want, I can also recommend the best brow gels by hold, tint, or budget.

A typical brow gel costs about $18 on average, based on a mix of drugstore and prestige examples. In practice, drugstore brow gels are usually around $4–$13, while higher-end ones are often $16–$40. (target.com)

If you want, I can also give you the average by brand tier or the best brow gels under $10.

Yes — a few cheap mascaras are genuinely excellent.

Best budget picks:

• L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise – big volume, very popular, usually around drugstore price.
• Maybelline Lash Sensational – great all-around choice for length + separation.
• Maybelline Great Lash – classic, very cheap, good if you want a simple everyday mascara.
• Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect – super cheap and surprisingly strong volume; a cult favorite.
• CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume – good for bold, fuller lashes without clumping too much.

If you want specific effects:

• Lengthening: Maybelline Lash Sensational
• Volume: Essence Lash Princess or L’Oréal Lash Paradise
• Natural everyday: Maybelline Great Lash or CoverGirl Lash Blast

If you want, I can also recommend the best cheap mascara for straight lashes, short lashes, or sensitive eyes.

Yes — a few cheap brands are genuinely good:

• Essence: best if you want the absolute lowest price; Lash Princess is a cult favorite and often around $5. (cosmopolitan.com)
• L’Oréal Paris: probably the safest “cheap but good” bet overall. Voluminous Panorama and Telescopic are both repeatedly ranked top drugstore picks for length, separation, and low clump. (allure.com)
• CoverGirl: strong for definition and volume, especially Clump Crusher and LashBlast Volume. (allure.com)
• Maybelline: Lash Sensational Sky High is a reliable affordable option, especially if you want length. (allure.com)
• e.l.f.: good budget pick if you want a tubing-style mascara. (cosmopolitan.com)

If you want the shortest answer: L’Oréal Panorama and Essence Lash Princess are the two best cheap starts. (allure.com)

If you want, I can also narrow it down by length, volume, curl, or sensitive eyes.

Here are some of the best budget brow pencils:

• e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil — very affordable, easy to use, great for everyday filling.
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil — slim tip for hair-like strokes, good color range.
• Maybelline Brow Ultra Slim Defining Pencil — precise, smooth, solid drugstore pick.
• L’Oréal Brow Stylist Definer — great for natural-looking brows and easy control.
• Revlon ColorStay Brow Pencil — reliable wear and decent value.
• Wet n Wild Ultimate Brow Retractable Pencil — one of the cheapest good options.
• CoverGirl Easy Breezy Brow Pencil — beginner-friendly and simple to apply.

If you want the best overall budget pick, I’d go with NYX Micro Brow Pencil. If you want the lowest price that still works well, try e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil.

If you want, I can also narrow these down by thick brows, sparse brows, or oily skin.

If you want budget brow pencils that consistently get strong editor praise, these are the safest picks:

• NYX Micro Brow Pencil — best all-around budget pick for precise, hair-like strokes. (vogue.com)
• e.l.f. Ultra Precise Brow Pencil — great ultra-fine option if you want a very controlled, natural finish. (whowhatwear.com)
• COVERGIRL Clean Fresh Brow Nano Eyebrow Pencil — a good affordable choice for soft pigment and a tiny tip. (whowhatwear.com)
• Maybelline Express Brow Ultra Slim Pencil — good if you want a slim pencil with easy definition. (sagewisereviews.com)
• Revlon ColorStay Brow Pencil — solid if you want a more long-wearing, waterproof drugstore option. (whowhatwear.com)

My quick picks:

• Best overall: NYX Micro Brow Pencil. (vogue.com)
• Best for the finest strokes: e.l.f. Ultra Precise Brow Pencil. (whowhatwear.com)
• Best if your brows need lasting hold: Revlon ColorStay Brow Pencil. (whowhatwear.com)

If you want, I can also narrow these down by hair color or brow style (natural, fluffy, sharp, sparse).

A good price for brow pomade is usually:

• $8–15 for a solid drugstore option
• $15–25 for a good mid-range/prestige one
• $25+ if you’re paying for luxury packaging or brand name

Good specific picks:

• NYX Tame & Frame Brow Pomade — usually around $9–12
• e.l.f. Lock On Liner and Brow Cream — about $6–8
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade — about $23–25 (classic higher-end option)

If you want the best value, I’d say around $10–12 is a sweet spot.

A good price for brow pomade is usually $8–$20.

Quick rule of thumb:

• Under $10: budget-friendly, often decent
• $10–$20: sweet spot for quality
• $20+: premium, usually not necessary unless you want a specific formula/brand

Popular options in the sweet spot:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade — about $23
• e.l.f. Lock On Liner and Brow Cream — about $6–$8
• NYX Tame & Frame Brow Pomade — about $9–$12

If you want, I can also suggest the best brow pomade for beginners, oily skin, or natural-looking brows.

Sometimes, but not always.

Worth it if you want:

• Better formula/performance: less clumping, better lift/length, better wear.
• More comfortable wear: creamier formulas that don’t flake or sting.
• A specific effect: very dramatic volume, clean separation, tubing, etc.

Often not worth it if:

• You’re happy with a simple everyday look.
• You replace mascara often anyway (it should be tossed about every 3 months).
• You mainly want basics like length + definition—drugstore can do that very well.

Great premium mascaras:

• Lancôme Monsieur Big — big volume
• Benefit They’re Real! — length and separation
• Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl — lift and curl
• Too Faced Better Than Sex — very dramatic volume
• Blinc Original Tubing Mascara — if you want smudge-proof, easy removal

Great cheaper options:

• L’Oréal Lash Paradise
• Maybelline Sky High
• Essence Lash Princess
• CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume

Bottom line: If you’re after a standout effect or have sensitive eyes/very specific needs, expensive mascara can be worth it. For everyday use, drugstore mascaras are often just as good.

If you want, I can recommend the best mascara for your lash type (short, straight, sparse, oily lids, etc.).

Sometimes, but not always.

Worth it if you care about:

• Formula/finish: richer black, better length/volume, less clumping
• Brush design: easier separation and precision
• Wear: less flaking/smudging, better for humidity or long days
• Sensation: lighter feel, less irritation for sensitive eyes

Usually not worth it if you just want:

• basic everyday color and lift
• a mascara you replace often anyway
• a good result from a drugstore option

Best value is often mid-range. Some expensive mascaras are excellent, but plenty of drugstore ones perform just as well. The biggest differences are usually brush + formula, not price alone.

My rule of thumb:

• Drugstore: best for trying styles and saving money
• Mid-range: often the sweet spot
• Luxury: worth it only if it solves a specific problem for you

If you want, I can recommend the best mascaras by budget (drugstore, mid-range, luxury).

Best-value everyday brow products:

• NYX Micro Brow Pencil — cheap, precise, and very close to higher-end brow pencils.
• e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil — super affordable, easy to use, great for quick fill-in.
• Maybelline TattooStudio Brow Pencil — a bit pricier but still a strong drugstore value; long-wearing.
• Essence Make Me Brow — tinted fiber gel, great for fast, natural brows.
• NYX The Brow Glue — best if you want hold all day without spending much.
• Benefit Gimme Brow+ — not the cheapest, but one of the best “worth it” tinted gels for everyday use.

If you want the simplest everyday setup, I’d pick:

• Pencil: NYX Micro Brow Pencil
• Gel: Essence Make Me Brow

If you want, I can also give you the best picks by brow type: sparse, thick, oily skin, or no-makeup makeup.

For everyday use, the best value brow buys are usually these:

• Best budget clear gel: Göt2b Glued 2-in-1 Brow and Edge Gel — strong hold, very cheap, and easy for quick, brushed-up brows. (allure.com)
• Best budget tinted gel: L’Oréal Paris Unbelieva-Brow — a good drugstore pick if you want color + hold in one step. (goodhousekeeping.com)
• Best budget pen for natural strokes: Maybelline New York Build-a-Brow 2-in-1 Brow Pen — beginner-friendly and good for filling sparse areas without looking harsh. (allure.com)
• Best budget pencil: L’Oréal Paris Brow Stylist Definer — a solid affordable waterproof pencil for precise everyday shaping. (allure.com)
• Best “worth the splurge” pencil: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz — not the cheapest, but still a go-to if you want a very natural, foolproof finish. (allure.com)

If you want the simplest everyday combo, I’d do: pencil/pen for sparse spots + clear gel to set.

If you tell me your brow type (thin, full, sparse, coarse, oily skin, etc.), I can narrow it to the best 2 picks.

You can usually find mascara on sale at:

• Ulta Beauty — frequent promos on Benefit They’re Real!, Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes, Maybelline Sky High, L’Oréal Voluminous, Lancôme Lash Idôle
• Sephora — sales on Benefit BADgal BANG!, Lancôme Monsieur Big, Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes, Milk Makeup Kush
• CVS / Walgreens / Rite Aid — good drugstore discounts on Maybelline Great Lash, Maybelline Lash Sensational, L’Oréal Telescopic, CoverGirl Lash Blast
• Target — often has deals on e.l.f. Big Mood, Maybelline Sky High, L’Oréal Voluminous, CoverGirl Lash Blast
• Amazon — frequent price drops on Maybelline, L’Oréal, Essence Lash Princess, CoverGirl
• Costco / Sam’s Club — value packs and occasional markdowns on Lancôme, Clinique, L’Oréal

Best budget picks to watch for:

• Essence Lash Princess
• Maybelline Lash Sensational
• L’Oréal Voluminous Original
• CoverGirl Lash Blast

If you want, I can also give you the best mascara deals by store right now or recommend mascara for volume/length/curl.

Yes—good places to look right now are:

• Target: the mascara sale page has 24 sale results, including tarte, Heimish, Blinc, and Ulta Beauty at Target items. (target.com)
• Ulta Beauty: the ULTA Beauty Collection ULTAmate Lashes Mascara is currently sale price $8.40 (reg. $12). (ulta.com)
• Walmart: mascara listings include budget picks like essence Lash Princess at $4.97, Maybelline Great Lash Lots of Lashes at $6.82, and L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original at $9.97. (walmart.com)
• Sephora: some mascaras are marked select sale items, including HUDA BEAUTY 1 Coat WOW! and LEGIT LASHES. (sephora.com)

If you want, I can narrow it down by drugstore, high-end, or waterproof mascaras.

Some of the most affordable brow gel brands:

• e.l.f. — Wow Brow Gel
• NYX — The Brow Glue or Control Freak
• Maybelline — Brow Fast Sculpt
• Milani — The Clear Brow Gel
• Wet n Wild — Ultimate Brow Gel
• Essence — Make Me Brow
• L.A. Girl — Shady Slim Brow Gel
• Revolution Beauty — Soap Brow or Brow Fix Gel

If you want the cheapest overall, e.l.f., Essence, and Wet n Wild are usually the best budget picks. If you want, I can also rank them by best hold, best for sparse brows, or best clear brow gels.

The most affordable brow gel brands are usually:

• Göt2b — especially Göt2b Glued 2-in-1 Brow & Edge Gel; Allure listed it at $8. (allure.com)
• e.l.f. — e.l.f. Brow Lift was listed at $6. (allure.com)
• NYX Professional Makeup — The Brow Glue was listed at $10. (allure.com)
• Maybelline New York — Build-a-Brow 2-in-1 Brow Pen includes a brow gel step and was listed at $16 (often on sale lower). (allure.com)
• L’Oréal Paris — not always the cheapest, but still budget-friendly; Allure listed Faux Brow at $13. (allure.com)

If you want the cheapest picks overall, I’d start with e.l.f., Göt2b, and NYX. (allure.com)

If you want, I can also narrow this to clear hold, tinted, or lamination-style brow gels.

Yes — lots of brands do.

Mascara travel/mini sizes:

• Benefit: They’re Real! Mini Mascara, Roller Lash Mini
• Too Faced: Better Than Sex Mini Mascara
• Tarte: Tartelette™ Tubing Mascara Mini (varies by retailer)
• Rare Beauty: Perfect Strokes Mini Mascara
• Clinique: High Impact Mascara Mini

Brow product travel/mini sizes:

• Benefit: Gimme Brow+ Mini and Precisely, My Brow Pencil Mini
• Anastasia Beverly Hills: Brow Wiz Mini (sometimes available in sets/retailers)
• NYX: smaller brow pencils and gels like Micro Brow Pencil (not always labeled “mini,” but travel-friendly)
• Dior: mini brow gels/pencils appear seasonally
• Kosas: mini brow gels in some sets

If you want, I can also suggest the best travel-size mascara and brow combo for volume, natural look, or waterproof wear.

Yes — several brands sell travel-size/mini mascara and brow products. Examples: Benefit has mini mascaras and mini brow products like 24-Hour Brow Setter and Fluff Up Brow Wax; Anastasia Beverly Hills has mini Brow Freeze Gel, Mini Clear Brow Gel, Mini DIPBROW Gel, and a Mini Lash Sculpt Mascara; Estée Lauder and Charlotte Tilbury also sell travel-size mascaras. (benefitcosmetics.com)

If you want, I can list the best mini options by budget, prestige, or waterproof formula.

Some of the best mascara and brow brands right now:

Mascara

• Lancôme — Monsieur Big, Définicils
• Maybelline — Lash Sensational Sky High, Great Lash
• Benefit — They’re Real!, Badgal Bang!
• Dior — Diorshow
• CoverGirl — Lash Blast Volume
• Too Faced — Better Than Sex
• Clinique — High Impact Mascara

Brow products

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz, Dipbrow Pomade, Clear Brow Gel
• Benefit — Gimme Brow+, Precisely, My Brow Pencil
• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil, Thick It. Stick It!
• Refy — Brow Sculpt, Brow Pencil
• Kosas — Air Brow
• Charlotte Tilbury — Brow Cheat, Legendary Brows

If you want, I can also narrow this down to:

• best budget
• best for sparse brows
• best volumizing mascara
• best tubing mascara

Here are some of the best mascara and brow brands/products right now:

Mascara

• L’Oréal Paris — especially Telescopic Lift and Voluminous Lash Paradise
• Maybelline — Sky High is still a top pick
• Lancôme — Monsieur Big and Définicils
• Clinique — Lash Power Mascara
• Benefit — BADgal BANG!
• Too Faced — Better Than Sex
• Thrive Causemetics — Liquid Lash Extensions if you want tubing mascara

Brow products

• Benefit — best overall brow brand; try Precisely, My Brow Pencil, Gimme Brow+, and 24-HR Brow Setter
• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz and Dipbrow Pomade
• NYX — great affordable options like Micro Brow Pencil and The Brow Glue
• MAC — Eye Brows Styler
• Refy — very popular for brushed-up, laminated-looking brows
• Kosas — Air Brow
• e.l.f. — budget-friendly, especially Wow Brow Gel

If you want, I can also narrow it down to:

• best drugstore
• best luxury
• best for straight lashes
• best for sparse brows

Here are the strongest mascara and brow brands right now, with standout products:

Mascara

• Lancôme — Monsieur Big Mascara (big volume), Définicils (clean length)
• Dior — Diorshow Iconic Overcurl (lift/curl), Diorshow (fuller lashes)
• Maybelline — Lash Sensational Sky High (length + separation), The Falsies Lash Lift (volume)
• L’Oréal Paris — Telescopic (length), Voluminous Lash Paradise (soft volume)
• Benefit — They’re Real! Magnet (length/definition)
• Too Faced — Better Than Sex (dramatic volume)
• Tarte — Tubing Mascara in Tartelette (easy removal, good for smudge-prone eyes)
• Thrive Causemetics — Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara (popular tubing mascara)

Brow products

• Benefit — best all-around brow brand; Precisely, My Brow Pencil, Gimme Brow+, 24-HR Brow Setter
• Anastasia Beverly Hills — iconic for brows; Brow Wiz, Dipbrow Pomade, Clear Brow Gel
• NYX — great value; Micro Brow Pencil, Thick It. Stick It! Brow Mascara
• Refy — Brow Sculpt (laminated, fluffy look)
• Hourglass — Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil (high-end, natural)
• Ardell — Brow Pomade and brow gels, solid budget picks
• Kosas — Air Brow (tinted, feathery finish)
• Patrick Ta — Major Brow Lamination Gel (strong hold)

Quick picks

• Best mascara overall: Lancôme Monsieur Big
• Best drugstore mascara: Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High
• Best brow pencil: Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil or Anastasia Brow Wiz
• Best brow gel: Benefit Gimme Brow+ or Refy Brow Sculpt

If you want, I can narrow this to best for straight lashes, short lashes, sparse brows, or a natural vs. dramatic look.

Here are the standout mascara and brow brands right now:

Mascara brands/products

• Maybelline — Lash Sensational Sky High, The Falsies Surreal
• L’Oréal Paris — Telescopic, Voluminous Lash Paradise
• Lancôme — Lash Idôle
• Too Faced — Better Than Sex
• Benefit — BADgal BANG!
• Dior — Diorshow
• Tower 28 — MakeWaves Mascara (great for sensitive eyes)
• Milk Makeup — Kush Mascara

Brow brands/products

• Benefit — Precisely, My Brow Pencil, Gimme Brow+
• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz, Brow Freeze
• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil, The Brow Glue
• Refy — Brow Sculpt, Brow Tint
• Brow Flick — Microblade Brow Pen
• Kosas — Air Brow
• Dior — Diorshow Brow Styler

If you want, I can narrow this down to:

• best drugstore
• best clean beauty
• best for volume/length
• best for sparse brows or thick brows

Here are some of the best mascara and brow brands right now, with standout products:

Mascara

• Lancôme — Lash Idôle Mascara

Great for lift, separation, and a cleaner everyday look.

• Maybelline — Lash Sensational Sky High

Best budget pick for length and volume.

• Too Faced — Better Than Sex Mascara

Big volume, dramatic finish.

• Benefit — They’re Real! Mascara

Good for definition and long wear.

• Thrive Causemetics — Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

Tubing formula; great if you want smudge-proof wear.

• Hourglass — Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

A luxe tubing option with strong lengthening.

Brow products

• Benefit — Precisely, My Brow Pencil / Gimme Brow+

Still one of the best all-around brow brands.

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz / Dipbrow Pomade

Best for shaping and fuller brows.

• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil / Thick It. Stick It!

Excellent affordable options.

• Kosas — Air Brow Gel

Great for a fluffy, lifted brow look.

• Refy — Brow Sculpt

Popular for laminated, feathered brows.

• Glossier — Brow Flick / Boy Brow

Easy, natural-looking brows.

If you want, I can also give you:

1. the best drugstore-only picks,
2. the best waterproof options, or
3. the best mascara/brow products for your specific brow and lash type.

Makeup artists often recommend these mascara brands/products:

• Lancôme — especially Monsieur Big and Définicils
• L’Oréal Paris — Voluminous Lash Paradise / Telescopic
• Clinique — High Impact Mascara
• Dior — Diorshow
• Maybelline — Lash Sensational and Sky High
• Thrive Causemetics — Liquid Lash Extensions
• YSL — Lash Clash
• Too Faced — Better Than Sex
• Benefit — They’re Real! and Badgal Bang!
• MAC — Stack Mascara

If you want, I can also narrow this down by:

1. best for volume,
2. best for length,
3. best for sensitive eyes, or
4. best drugstore vs luxury options.

Makeup artists most often recommend these mascaras:

• Lancôme Lash Idôle — great lift, separation, and clean definition.
• Lancôme Monsieur Big — for major volume.
• L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise — budget-friendly favorite, often compared to high-end formulas.
• Maybelline Sky High — popular for length and flexible volume.
• Benefit Badgal Bang! — strong volume without too much clumping.
• Too Faced Better Than Sex — a classic for dramatic volume.
• Dior Diorshow — a pro staple for buildable, glam lashes.
• Grande Cosmetics GrandeMASCARA — good if you want length + care benefits.
• Clinique High Impact Mascara — reliable, everyday, sensitive-eye friendly.
• MAC Stack Mascara — loved for customizable volume and layering.

If you want, I can narrow these down by best for length, volume, waterproof, or sensitive eyes.

Makeup artists most often recommend these mascaras:

• Lancôme — especially Lash Idôle and Monsieur Big
• Dior — Diorshow and Diorshow Iconic Overcurl
• Maybelline — Lash Sensational and Sky High (budget favorite)
• L’Oréal Paris — Voluminous Original and Lash Paradise
• Thrive Causemetics — Liquid Lash Extensions
• Benefit — They’re Real! and Badgal Bang!
• Clinique — Lash Power and High Impact Mascara
• Chanel — Le Volume de Chanel
• YSL Beauty — Lash Clash
• Tower 28 — MakeWaves Mascara (good for sensitive eyes)

If you want, I can also narrow this down by goal: volume, length, curl, or best for straight lashes.

Makeup artists often recommend these mascara brands/products:

• Lancôme — especially Lash Idôle, Monsieur Big
• Maybelline — Lash Sensational, Sky High (drugstore favorite)
• Lancôme Hypnôse — for volume and separation
• Dior — Diorshow / Diorshow Iconic Overcurl
• Too Faced — Better Than Sex
• Benefit — They’re Real! and Roller Lash
• L’Oréal Paris — Voluminous Lash Paradise
• MAC — Stack Mascara
• Pat McGrath Labs — Dark Star Mascara
• Hourglass — Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

If you want, I can also give you the best mascara by goal (length, volume, curl, waterproof, sensitive eyes).

Makeup artists most often recommend these mascaras:

• Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara — great all-around lift and separation
• L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise — strong drugstore favorite for volume
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — lengthening and buildable
• Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl — top pick for curl and definition
• Too Faced Better Than Sex — big, dramatic volume
• Benefit They’re Real! — good for length and clean separation
• Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara — popular for smudge-proof, easy removal
• Clinique High Impact Mascara — reliable, classic everyday option

If you want, I can also narrow this down by best for volume, length, curl, or sensitive eyes.

Some of the most popular brow product brands are:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz, Dipbrow Pomade, Brow Freeze
• Benefit Cosmetics — Precisely, My Brow Pencil, Gimme Brow+
• NYX Professional Makeup — Micro Brow Pencil, Thick it. Stick it!
• Maybelline — Brow Ultra Slim Pencil, TattooStudio Brow Pomade
• L’Oréal Paris — Brow Stylist Definer
• e.l.f. Cosmetics — Instant Lift Brow Pencil, Brow Lift
• Glossier — Brow Flick, Boy Brow
• Refy — Brow Sculpt, Brow Pencil
• Charlotte Tilbury — Brow Cheat
• Fenty Beauty — Brow MVP Ultra Fine Brow Pencil & Styler

If you want, I can also rank these by best for beginners, best drugstore, or best long-wear.

Some of the most popular brow product brands are:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — famous for Brow Wiz and Dipbrow Pomade
• Benefit Cosmetics — best known for Precisely, My Brow and Gimme Brow+
• NYX Professional Makeup — popular budget option, especially Micro Brow Pencil
• e.l.f. Cosmetics — affordable and widely used, like Instant Lift Brow Pencil
• Kosas — popular cleaner-beauty option, especially Air Brow
• Hourglass — luxury favorite, like Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil
• Refy — known for its Brow Sculpt gel
• Browns by some? no — not a major brand

If you want, I can also rank them by best drugstore, best luxury, or best for thin brows.

Some of the most popular brow product brands are:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz, Dipbrow Pomade
• Benefit Cosmetics — Precisely, My Brow Pencil, Gimme Brow+
• NYX Professional Makeup — Micro Brow Pencil, Tinted Brow Mascara
• Glossier — Boy Brow
• L’Oréal Paris — Brow Stylist Definer
• Maybelline — TattooStudio Brow Pencil, Brow Fast Sculpt
• e.l.f. Cosmetics — Wow Brow Gel, Instant Lift Brow Pencil
• Kosas — Air Brow Gel
• Refy — Brow Sculpt, Brow Tint
• SheaMoisture — Brow Pencil and gels in some markets

If you want, I can also break these down by best pencil, best gel, best pomade, or best for sparse brows.

Some of the most popular brow product brands are:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — very iconic for brow pencils, pomades, and gels
• Benefit Cosmetics — famous for brow pencils, gels, and the Gimme Brow line
• NYX Professional Makeup — affordable and widely used, especially Micro Brow Pencil and brow gels
• e.l.f. Cosmetics — budget-friendly, popular brow pencils and gels
• Rare Beauty — well-liked for the Brow Harmony line
• Kosas — popular for clean-beauty brow products
• Charlotte Tilbury — known for polished, luxe brow pencils and gels
• Glossier — Boy Brow is a cult-favorite tinted brow gel
• Brow Wiz / Anastasia — still one of the best-known brow products overall
• Mac Cosmetics — reliable pro-quality brow pencils and powders

If you want, I can also list the best brands by product type: pencil, pomade, gel, or soap.

Some of the most popular brow product brands are:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — famous for Brow Wiz, Dipbrow Pomade, Brow Definer
• Benefit Cosmetics — especially Precisely, My Brow Pencil, Gimme Brow+, 24-HR Brow Setter
• NYX Professional Makeup — budget-friendly favorites like Micro Brow Pencil, Thick It. Stick It!
• Refy — popular for Brow Sculpt
• Kosas — known for Air Brow Gel
• e.l.f. Cosmetics — affordable picks like Instant Lift Brow Pencil and Wow Brow Gel
• Charlotte Tilbury — Brow Cheat and Legendary Brows
• L’Oréal Paris — Brow Stylist Definer
• Maybelline — Brow Ultra Slim and TattooStudio Brow Gel
• Hourglass — Arch Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel

If you want, I can also break them down by best luxury, best drugstore, or best for sparse brows.

For best lash volume, these mascaras are consistently top picks:

• Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara — big, plush volume; very dramatic.
• L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise — one of the best drugstore volume mascaras.
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — more length + volume, but still very full.
• Benefit BADgal BANG! — lightweight, buildable volume without feeling heavy.
• Lancôme Hypnôse Drama — rich, dense volume with a luxe finish.
• Milk Makeup Kush Mascara — thickens well and gives a fuller, softer look.

If you want:

• Most dramatic volume: Too Faced Better Than Sex
• Best drugstore volume: L’Oréal Lash Paradise
• Best buildable volume: Benefit BADgal BANG!

If you want, I can also give you the best volumizing mascaras for short lashes, straight lashes, or sensitive eyes.

For maximum lash volume, these are consistently top picks:

• Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara — one of the most dramatic, full-volume formulas.
• Benefit BADgal BANG! — big volume with a lighter feel.
• Lancôme Monsieur Big — very thick, fluffy volume, especially for everyday glam.
• Tarte Maneater Mascara — bold, buildable volume with good lift.
• Milk Makeup Kush Mascara — plush, dense volume and a more flexible formula.
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — drugstore option with surprisingly strong volume and length.

If you want, I can also narrow it down to best waterproof, best drugstore, or best for straight lashes.

For max lash volume, these are some of the best mascaras:

• Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara — big, dramatic volume
• Benefit BADgal BANG! Mascara — very full, lightweight volume
• Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara — dense, bold volume
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — great volume for the price
• Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes 4-in-1 Mascara — fuller, softer volume
• L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise — classic drugstore volume
• Milk Makeup Kush Mascara — thick, plush-looking lashes

If you want, I can also give you:

• best waterproof volume mascaras
• best drugstore vs luxury
• best mascara for short, straight lashes

For maximum lash volume, these mascaras are standouts:

• Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara — one of the best for big, dramatic volume.
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — great volume with length, very affordable.
• L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara — a classic for soft, buildable fullness.
• Benefit BADgal BANG! — lightweight but gives bold volume without clumping.
• Milk Makeup Kush High Volume Mascara — thick, plush volume and good separation.
• Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara — strong, intense volume with a fuller lash look.

If you want, I can also give you the best volumizing mascaras by budget or best for straight, short, or sparse lashes.

For max lash volume, these mascaras are consistently top picks:

• Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara — very dramatic volume and thickness.
• L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise — a great drugstore dupe for full, fluffy lashes.
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — more length + volume, but still gives a big lash look.
• Benefit BADgal BANG! — lightweight but builds major volume without clumping.
• Pat McGrath Labs FetishEyes Mascara — luxe option for dense, intense volume.
• Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara — excellent for bold, thick lashes.
• Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes 4-in-1 Mascara — good volume with a softer finish.

If you want, I can also narrow it down to best drugstore, best for short lashes, or best waterproof volume mascara.

For everyday wear, the best brow gels are usually light, flexible, and not crunchy. Top picks:

• Glossier Boy Brow — very natural, fluffy hold; great for sparse brows.
• Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter — strong hold, clear finish, works well all day.
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel — excellent for laminated, lifted brows.
• NYX The Brow Glue — budget-friendly, strong hold, surprisingly good.
• Kosas Air Brow — tinted, soft hold, good if you want a fuller natural look.
• E.l.f. Wow Brow Gel — affordable fiber gel for everyday volume.
• Too Faced Fluff & Hold Laminating Brow Wax — best if you want a polished, feathered brow.

If you want the easiest everyday options:

• Natural/soft: Glossier Boy Brow, Kosas Air Brow
• Strong hold: Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter, NYX Brow Glue
• Budget: e.l.f. Wow Brow, NYX Brow Glue

If you want, I can also recommend the best brow gel for your brow type (thin, thick, coarse, or sparse).

For everyday wear, the best brow gels are usually the ones that give a natural hold without flakes or stiffness. Top picks:

• Benefit Cosmetics Gimme Brow+ — great for soft hold, tint, and filling sparse brows
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Gel — strong hold and very polished finish
• NYX The Brow Glue — excellent budget option with serious hold
• Refy Brow Sculpt — sleek, laminated look without feeling heavy
• Kosas Air Brow — lightweight, natural-looking, good for fuller brows
• Glossier Boy Brow — easy, natural, “your brows but better”
• e.l.f. Wow Brow Gel — affordable and solid for everyday use

If you want:

• Most natural: Glossier Boy Brow, Kosas Air Brow
• Best hold: Refy Brow Sculpt, NYX Brow Glue
• Best overall: Benefit Gimme Brow+

If you want, I can also give you the best brow gels by budget, hold strength, or clear vs tinted.

For everyday wear, the best brow gels are usually the ones that hold without crunch, flake, or getting too dark.

Top picks:

• Benefit Gimme Brow+ — best tinted gel for a natural, fuller look
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel — strongest hold for fluffy, laminated brows
• NYX The Brow Glue — budget-friendly, very strong hold
• e.l.f. Wow Brow Gel — great affordable tinted option
• Glossier Boy Brow — soft, natural finish, easy to use
• Clear choice: Kosas Air Brow Clear Lifting Treatment Gel — clean, feathered look

If you want:

• Natural tint: Benefit Gimme Brow+, Glossier Boy Brow
• Strong hold: Anastasia Brow Freeze Gel, NYX Brow Glue
• Budget: e.l.f. Wow Brow, NYX Brow Glue
• Clear gel: Kosas Air Brow Clear, Anastasia Clear Brow Gel

If you want, I can also rank them by best for sparse brows, thick brows, or oily skin.

For everyday wear, the best brow gels are usually flexible, non-crunchy, and long-wearing. Top picks:

• Benefit Gimme Brow+ — best overall for natural volume and easy tint
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze Gel — best for strong hold and laminated look
• NYX The Brow Glue — best budget option with serious hold
• Hourglass Arch Brow Volumizing Fiber Gel — best for fuller, polished brows
• MAC Pro Brow Definer 1mm? Actually for gel, MAC Eye Brows Big Boost Fibre Gel — great for definition and tint
• REFY Brow Sculpt — best for sleek, brushed-up brows
• Glossier Boy Brow — best for soft, natural everyday wear
• Kosas Air Brow — best lightweight tinted gel with a fluffy finish

If you want the simplest everyday picks:

• Natural/no-makeup: Glossier Boy Brow
• Best hold: NYX The Brow Glue
• Best tinted fullness: Benefit Gimme Brow+

If you want, I can also give you the best brow gel by brow type (thin, sparse, thick, or unruly).

For everyday wear, the best brow gels are usually light-to-medium hold, non-crunchy, and easy to layer. Top picks:

• Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter — strong hold, clear, great for keeping brows in place all day.
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel — classic, firm hold, clean finish.
• NYX The Brow Glue — best budget pick; very strong hold, especially for fluffy/lifted brows.
• Glossier Boy Brow — one of the best for a natural, fuller look; soft hold, tinted or clear.
• Refy Brow Sculpt — excellent for laminated, lifted brows; strong hold.
• Kosas Air Brow — tinted, natural-looking, and lightweight for everyday use.
• Ardell Brow Gel — affordable and simple, good for quick daily grooming.

If you want:

• Most natural: Glossier Boy Brow, Kosas Air Brow
• Strongest hold: NYX The Brow Glue, Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter
• Best luxury: Anastasia Beverly Hills, Refy
• Best drugstore: NYX, Ardell

If you want, I can also narrow it down by clear vs tinted, budget, or thin/thick brows.

A few brow pencil brands are consistently worth buying:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz – best all-around; precise, natural-looking, lots of shades.
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil – great fine tip, easy to control, very reliable.
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil – best budget option; solid performance for the price.
• Charlotte Tilbury Brow Lift – luxe pick; soft, polished finish.
• Hourglass Arch Brow Micro Sculpting Pencil – very natural and long-wearing.
• e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil – cheap, good for everyday use.

If you want just one safe buy: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz or Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil.

If you want, I can also rank them by budget, long-wear, or most natural-looking.

Yes — these are the brow pencils most worth buying, depending on what you want:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz – the classic pick for precise, natural-looking brows.
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil – very reliable, slim tip, great for hair-like strokes.
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil – best budget option; surprisingly good performance.
• Refy Brow Pencil – easy to use, soft but defined finish.
• Hourglass Arch Brow Micro Sculpting Pencil – luxury option, very refined and natural.
• MAC Eye Brows Styler – solid, long-wearing, good shade range.
• Kosas Brow Pop – good if you like a softer, more modern brow look.

If you want just one:

• Best overall: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz
• Best budget: NYX Micro Brow Pencil
• Best for easy everyday use: Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil

If you want, I can also give you the best brow pencil for blonde, brunette, black hair, or oily skin.

A few brow pencils are consistently worth buying:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz — the classic fine-tip pencil; great for natural hair-like strokes.
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil — very reliable, easy to use, and long-wearing.
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil — best budget pick; surprisingly good for the price.
• Hourglass Arch Brow Micro-Sculpting Pencil — luxe feel, very natural finish, excellent formula.
• Charlotte Tilbury Brow Cheat — nice if you want a softer, more polished look.
• Refy Brow Pencil — good if you like a modern, fluffy-brow style.
• Dior Diorshow Brow Styler — premium option with a clean, precise line.

If you want just one recommendation:

• Best overall: Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil
• Best splurge: Hourglass Arch Brow Micro-Sculpting Pencil
• Best budget: NYX Micro Brow Pencil

If you tell me your brow type (sparse, thick, oily skin, etc.), I can narrow it to the best 2–3.

Worth buying:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz — best all-around, super precise, very reliable.
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil — great thin tip, easy to use, long-wearing.
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil — best budget pick, close to high-end performance.
• Kosas Brow Pop — very good if you want a softer, more natural look.
• ColourPop Brow Boss Pencil — affordable, decent formula, good shade range.
• Bobbi Brown Perfectly Defined Long-Wear Brow Pencil — excellent if you want luxe, polished results.

If you want just one: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz or NYX Micro Brow Pencil for budget.

Yes—these are consistently worth buying:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz – the classic fine-tip pencil; great for natural hair-like strokes.
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil – very similar to Brow Wiz; reliable, precise, long-wearing.
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil – best budget pick; good formula for the price.
• Glossier Brow Flick + Boy Brow – not a pencil alone, but great if you want a softer, more natural brow routine.
• Hourglass Arch Brow Micro Sculpting Pencil – luxe option, very creamy and easy to control.
• Revlon ColorStay Brow Pencil – underrated drugstore choice; solid and easy to find.
• Morphe Micro Brow Pencil – affordable and decent for everyday use.

If you want one safe pick: Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil. If you want best budget: NYX Micro Brow Pencil.

If you tell me your brow type (sparse, thick, oily skin, or very dark brows), I can narrow it down to the best 2–3.

Here are some of the best-rated mascaras for longer-looking lashes:

• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — a budget favorite for length and separation
• Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara — great for dramatic elongation
• L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Mascara — known for super-defined, extended lashes
• Lancôme Définicils High Definition Mascara — clean, long, natural-looking length
• Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof — adds length plus volume, very popular
• Dior Diorshow Mascara — luxe option for fuller, longer lashes
• Tower 28 MakeWaves Mascara — good for a softer, lengthened look
• CoverGirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara — affordable and lengthening without clumps

If you want, I can narrow this down to best drugstore, best luxury, or best for straight lashes.

For longer-looking lashes, these mascaras are consistently top-rated:

• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — great drugstore pick, very lengthening, lightweight.
• Benefit They’re Real! — adds noticeable length and separation.
• L’Oréal Telescopic Original — famous for “extension-like” length.
• Too Faced Better Than Sex — more dramatic length + volume.
• Lancôme Monsieur Big — fuller-looking lashes with good lift.
• Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions — tubing formula, very lengthening and smudge-resistant.
• Clinique High Impact Mascara — clean, classic, good for everyday length.

If you want, I can also give you the best one for straight lashes, short lashes, or waterproof wear.

Top-rated mascaras for long, separated lashes:

• Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara — very popular for dramatic length and volume
• L’Oréal Paris Telescopic Original Mascara — excellent for lengthening and defining
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara — great length with a flexible wand
• Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara — strong lift and length
• Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara — clean, long, fanned-out lashes
• Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions — tubing formula, very length-focused
• Clinique High Impact Mascara — reliable everyday length and separation
• Dior Diorshow Mascara — luxurious, buildable length and volume

If you want, I can also narrow it down to best drugstore, best waterproof, or best for straight lashes.

Here are some of the top-rated mascaras for long lashes:

• Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara — great for length + lift, very popular and lightweight
• Benefit They’re Real! Lengthening Mascara — strong lengthening and separation
• Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara — famous for a true “lash extensions” look
• Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara — dramatic volume with noticeable length
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — affordable, very good length, widely loved
• L’Oréal Telescopic Lift Mascara — excellent for long, defined lashes
• Dior Diorshow Mascara — luxury pick for fuller, longer-looking lashes

If you want, I can also narrow these down by drugstore vs luxury, best for straight lashes, or smudge-proof options.

Top-rated mascaras for long, defined lashes:

• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High — great length, easy to find, very popular.
• Lancôme Lash Idôle — clean separation and length without clumping.
• Benefit They’re Real! Magnet — strong lengthening effect, good for dramatic lashes.
• Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions — tubing mascara that makes lashes look longer and stays put well.
• L’Oréal Telescopic Original — classic budget pick for maximum length and precision.
• Too Faced Better Than Sex Waterproof — adds length plus volume; best if you want a bolder look.
• Kiss Me Heroine Make Long & Curl Mascara — excellent for long, lifted lashes, especially if lashes drop easily.

If you want, I can also give you the best one for straight lashes, short lashes, or sensitive eyes.

Top brands for natural-looking brows:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — best for precise, realistic pencil fills
  • Brow Wiz
• Benefit — great tinted gels and easy everyday brow products
  • Gimme Brow+, Precisely, My Brow Pencil
• NYX — affordable, very natural finish
  • Micro Brow Pencil, Thick It. Stick It!
• Refy — clean, fluffy laminated look without being harsh
  • Brow Sculpt
• Kosas — soft, believable definition
  • Brow Pop
• MAC — excellent for subtle, polished brows
  • Eye Brows Styler
• Glossier — best if you want barely-there enhancement
  • Boy Brow
• Hourglass — luxe, soft, natural-looking color
  • Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil

If you want the most natural result, start with a fine pencil like Benefit Precisely, My Brow or Anastasia Brow Wiz, then lightly set with a tinted gel like Benefit Gimme Brow+ or Glossier Boy Brow.

If you want, I can also recommend the best one by budget, thin brows, or dark brows.

For natural-looking brows, these brands are consistently great:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz or Brow Definer

Very natural hair-like strokes; best for precise filling.

• Benefit Cosmetics — Precisely, My Brow Pencil

Super thin tip, easy to mimic real hairs.

• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil

A solid budget-friendly option with a natural finish.

• Refy — Brow Sculpt

Best for that fluffy, brushed-up look.

• Glossier — Boy Brow

Great if you want soft fullness without looking “done.”

• Kosas — Air Brow

Lightweight tinted gel for a feathery, natural effect.

If you want the most natural result overall: pencil + tinted gel is the best combo.

If you want, I can also give you the best picks by budget, skin/hair color, or brow type.

For natural-looking brows, these brands are consistently great:

• Glossier — Brow Flick or Boy Brow for soft, fluffy, barely-there brows
• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz for precise, hair-like strokes
• Benefit — Precisely, My Brow or Gimme Brow+ for natural definition
• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil for a cheaper but very good option
• Refy — Brow Sculpt for brushed-up, laminated-looking natural brows
• Westman Atelier — Lit Up / Eye want? For a more luxury, understated finish
• Kosas — Air Brow for feathery, tinted hold
• Clear brow gel: NYX Brow Glue, Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter, or Refy Brow Sculpt

If you want the most natural effect, the safest picks are:

1. Glossier Boy Brow
2. Benefit Precisely, My Brow
3. Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz
4. Kosas Air Brow

If you want, I can also give you the best brand by brow type (sparse, thick, straight, oily skin, etc.).

For natural-looking brows, these brands are consistently great:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — best for precise, natural hair-like fill
  • Try: Brow Wiz, Brow Freeze
• Benefit Cosmetics — great for easy, soft brows
  • Try: Precisely, My Brow Pencil, Gimme Brow+
• NYX — best budget-friendly natural finish
  • Try: Micro Brow Pencil, Thick It. Stick It!
• Glossier — very natural, brushed-up look
  • Try: Boy Brow, Brow Flick
• Refy — clean, laminated-but-natural look
  • Try: Brow Sculpt
• Kosas — subtle, soft definition
  • Try: Air Brow

If you want the most natural result, I’d start with:

1. Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil
2. Anastasia Brow Wiz
3. Glossier Boy Brow

If you want, I can also recommend the best one for thin brows, sparse brows, or dark brows.

For natural-looking brows, the best brands are usually:

• Brow Wiz by Anastasia Beverly Hills — super fine pencil, very natural hair-like strokes
• Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil — precise, easy to blend, not too harsh
• Glossier Boy Brow — best for a soft, fluffy, brushed-up look
• NYX Micro Brow Pencil — great budget option, very natural finish
• Refy Brow Sculpt — for laminated, but still soft and natural-looking brows
• Kosas Air Brow — tinted gel with a very natural, fluffy effect

If you want the most natural result, I’d pick:

• Pencil: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz
• Gel: Glossier Boy Brow or Kosas Air Brow

If you want, I can also recommend the best one for sparse brows, thick brows, or darkening brows.

A few brands that consistently get the best reviews:

Mascara

• Maybelline — Lash Sensational Sky High, Lash Sensational
• L’Oréal Paris — Voluminous Lash Paradise, Telescopic
• Benefit — They’re Real!, BADgal BANG!
• Too Faced — Better Than Sex
• Rare Beauty — Perfect Strokes Universal Volumizing Mascara

Brow products

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz, Dipbrow Pomade
• Benefit — Precisely, My Brow Pencil, Gimme Brow+
• NYX Professional Makeup — Micro Brow Pencil, The Brow Glue
• Refy — Brow Sculpt, Brow Tint
• e.l.f. — Instant Lift Brow Pencil, Wow Brow Gel

If you want, I can narrow these down by best for volume, length, waterproof, or budget.

Some of the most consistently well-reviewed mascara and brow brands/products are:

Mascara

• Thrive Causemetics — Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara
• Lancôme — Monsieur Big Mascara
• Maybelline — Lash Sensational / Sky High
• L’Oréal Paris — Telescopic Mascara
• Clinique — Lash Power Mascara
• Essence — Lash Princess Mascara (great budget pick)

Brow products

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz / Brow Freeze
• Benefit Cosmetics — Precisely, My Brow Pencil / Gimme Brow+
• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil (budget favorite)
• Kosas — Air Brow
• Glossier — Boy Brow

If you want, I can also narrow this down by:

1. best for volume
2. best for length
3. best waterproof
4. best budget picks

Some of the most consistently well-reviewed mascara and brow brands are:

Mascara

• Maybelline — especially Lash Sensational, Sky High, and Great Lash
• L’Oréal Paris — Voluminous Original and Telescopic
• Benefit — They’re Real! and Roller Lash
• Clinique — High Impact Mascara
• Dior — Diorshow (higher-end favorite)

Brows

• Benefit — the biggest standout for brows: Gimme Brow+, Precisely, My Brow, 24-HR Brow Setter
• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz and Dipbrow Pomade
• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil and Thick It. Stick It!
• e.l.f. — Wow Brow Gel and Instant Lift Brow Pencil
• Refy — Brow Sculpt and Brow Tint

If you want the safest “best reviewed” picks overall:

• Mascara: Maybelline Lash Sensational or Sky High
• Brows: Benefit Gimme Brow+ or Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz

If you want, I can narrow this down by drugstore vs prestige, volumizing vs lengthening mascara, or thin brows vs fuller brows.

Some of the most consistently well-reviewed mascara brands/products are:

• L’Oréal — Voluminous Lash Paradise
• Maybelline — Lash Sensational Sky High
• Too Faced — Better Than Sex Mascara
• Thrive Causemetics — Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara
• Clinique — High Impact Mascara

Top brow brands/products:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz / Dipbrow Pomade
• Benefit — Precisely, My Brow Pencil / Gimme Brow+
• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil
• Glossier — Brow Flick / Boy Brow
• e.l.f. — Brow Lift / Instant Lift Brow Pencil

If you want, I can also narrow this to the best drugstore vs best prestige options.

Some of the most consistently well-reviewed mascara and brow brands/products are:

Mascara

• Lancôme — Monsieur Big / Lash Idôle
• Too Faced — Better Than Sex Mascara
• Benefit — They’re Real! Mascara / BADgal BANG!
• Maybelline — Lash Sensational / Sky High
• CoverGirl — Lash Blast Volume

Brow products

• Benefit — Precisely, My Brow Pencil / Gimme Brow+
• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz / Dipbrow Pomade
• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil / Thick It. Stick It!
• Glossier — Brow Flick / Boy Brow
• Refy — Brow Sculpt

If you want, I can also give you the best-reviewed picks by budget (drugstore vs high-end) or by effect (volume, length, waterproof, natural brows, bold brows).

Some of the best affordable mascaras that are consistently good:

• Maybelline Lash Sensational — great all-around, adds volume + separation
• Maybelline Great Lash — very cheap classic, simple and reliable
• L’Oréal Lash Paradise — gives a fuller, “high-end” look for less
• CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume — good for thicker, more dramatic lashes
• Essence Lash Princess — one of the best budget mascaras overall
• e.l.f. Lash ‘N Roll — good curl and lift for the price
• Milani Highly Rated Mascara — solid volume and definition
• Wet n Wild Mega Length Mascara — very budget-friendly, good for length
• Rimmel Scandaleyes Retro Glam — nice volume and a flattering shape

If you want the best cheap pick overall, I’d start with Essence Lash Princess or Maybelline Lash Sensational.

If you want, I can also narrow it down by:

• best for volume
• best for length
• best for straight lashes
• best waterproof options

Some of the best cheap-but-good mascara brands are:

• Maybelline — especially Lash Sensational, Great Lash, and Sky High
• L’Oréal — Voluminous Original and Telescopic
• Essence — super affordable; Lash Princess is a standout
• CoverGirl — Lash Blast and Clump Crusher
• e.l.f. — Lash ‘N Roll and Big Mood
• Wet n Wild — Mega Length and Mega Volume
• Rimmel — Wonder’Luxe Volume and Scandaleyes

If you want the safest bet for quality + price, I’d start with:

1. Essence Lash Princess
2. Maybelline Lash Sensational
3. L’Oréal Telescopic

If you want, I can also recommend the best cheap mascara for volume, length, curl, or sensitive eyes.

Here are some of the best affordable mascara brands that are still reliably good:

• L’Oréal — Lash Paradise or Telescopic

Great all-around volume/length for the price.

• Maybelline — Lash Sensational Sky High or Great Lash

Probably the safest budget pick; widely loved.

• CoverGirl — Lash Blast Volume

Good volume, easy to find, often on sale.

• Essence — Lash Princess (green or waterproof)

Very cheap and surprisingly good; a cult favorite.

• e.l.f. — Big Mood Mascara

Nice if you want a more modern, fluffy-lash look.

• NYX — Worth the Hype

Good for everyday wear, especially if you want something lightweight.

Best value picks: Essence Lash Princess, Maybelline Sky High, and L’Oréal Telescopic.

If you want, I can also narrow it down by lengthening, volumizing, waterproof, or smudge-proof.

Some of the best affordable mascara brands are:

• Maybelline — especially Great Lash (classic), Lash Sensational, and Sky High
• Essence — Lash Princess is a standout and very cheap
• CoverGirl — Lash Blast Volume and Clump Crusher
• L’Oréal Paris — Voluminous Original and Telescopic
• e.l.f. — Lash It Loud is solid for the price
• NYX — Worth the Hype is a good budget pick
• ColourPop — BFF Mascara is affordable and decent

If you want the safest “cheap but good” picks, I’d start with:

1. Essence Lash Princess
2. Maybelline Lash Sensational
3. L’Oréal Voluminous Original

If you want, I can also recommend the best one for length, volume, or sensitive eyes.

Some of the best affordable mascara brands that are still reliably good:

• Maybelline — especially Lash Sensational and Great Lash
• L’Oréal Paris — Voluminous Original and Telescopic
• e.l.f. — Lash ‘N Roll and Big Mood
• Essence — Lash Princess (very cheap, super popular)
• CoverGirl — Lash Blast Volume
• NYX — Worth the Hype
• CoverGirl Clump Crusher — good for a more natural look

If you want the safest picks:

• Best overall cheap mascara: Essence Lash Princess
• Best drugstore classic: L’Oréal Voluminous Original
• Best for length: Maybelline Lash Sensational or L’Oréal Telescopic
• Best for volume: CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume

If you tell me whether you want length, volume, curl, or waterproof, I can narrow it to the best 3.

Top luxury mascara brands worth trying:

• Dior — Diorshow Iconic Overcurl or Diorshow Pump ’N’ Volume: great lift and drama.
• Chanel — Le Volume de Chanel: very plush, bold lashes.
• Lancôme — Définicils for separation or Lash Idôle for length and curl.
• Yves Saint Laurent — Lash Clash: intense volume, very glam.
• Guerlain — Mad Eyes Mascara: elegant, long-wear volume.
• Sisley Paris — So Volume: luxe formula with strong lift.
• Tom Ford — Emotionproof Mascara: polished, high-end finish.
• Hourglass — Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara: more prestige than classic luxury, but excellent for length.

If you want just 3 best overall: Lancôme Lash Idôle, Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl, and Chanel Le Volume de Chanel.

Some of the best luxury mascara brands are:

• Dior — especially Diorshow Iconic Overcurl and Diorshow Pump ’N’ Volume
• Chanel — Le Volume de Chanel
• Lancôme — Monsieur Big and Définicils
• Tom Ford — Eye Defining Mascara
• YSL Beauty — Lash Clash
• Guerlain — Mad Eyes Mascara
• Armani Beauty — Eyes to Kill Classico
• Prada Beauty — Prada Dimensions Mascara

If you want, I can also rank them by volume, length, curl, or best for sensitive eyes.

Here are some of the best luxury mascara brands/products:

• Dior — Diorshow Iconic Overcurl (curl + volume), Diorshow Pump ’N’ Volume (big volume)
• Chanel — Le Volume de Chanel (full, plush lashes), Le Lift de Chanel (more separation/natural)
• Tom Ford — Emotionproof Mascara (rich, elegant finish; very good for long wear)
• YSL — Lash Clash (dramatic volume, bold black)
• Lancôme — Lash Idôle (lifted, fanned-out lashes), Hypnôse (classic volume)
• Guerlain — Cils d’Enfer So Volume (soft volume, luxe feel)
• Sisley — So Stretch Mascara (length + definition)
• Clé de Peau Beauté — Perfect Lash Mascara (refined, elegant separation)
• Armani Beauty — Eyes to Kill Mascara (buildable volume)

Best overall picks:

• Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl if you want curl and definition
• Lancôme Lash Idôle if you want lifted, separated lashes
• Chanel Le Volume de Chanel if you want classic luxury volume
• YSL Lash Clash if you want the most dramatic look

If you want, I can also narrow it down by volumizing, lengthening, waterproof, or best for straight lashes.

Some of the best luxury mascara brands are:

• Dior — Diorshow Iconic Overcurl or Diorshow Pump ’N’ Volume

Great for volume, curl, and a polished look.

• Chanel — Le Volume de Chanel

Excellent for soft-glam volume and elegant separation.

• Lancôme — Lash Idôle or Monsieur Big

One of the best all-around luxury mascaras for lift and definition.

• YSL Beauty — Lash Clash

Strong volume, bold finish, very high-impact.

• Guerlain — Mad Eyes Mascara

More refined, luxurious feel with good length and separation.

• Tom Ford — Lash Mascara

Premium packaging and a sleek, defined result.

• Hourglass — Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

More of a tubing mascara, great for length and clean removal.

If you want, I can also rank these by best for volume, length, curl, or sensitive eyes.

Some of the best luxury mascara brands are:

• Dior — Diorshow Iconic Overcurl (great lift and separation)
• Chanel — Le Volume de Chanel (bold volume, classic luxe pick)
• Tom Ford — Extreme Mascara (glamorous, rich black finish)
• YSL Beauty — Lash Clash (very dramatic volume)
• Sisley Paris — So Intense Mascara (lengthening, lash-care feel)
• Guerlain — Mad Eyes Mascara (volumizing, elegant formula)
• Lancôme — Lash Idôle (clean lift and fluttery look)
• Armani Beauty — Eyes To Kill Classico (soft, buildable volume)

If you want the best overall luxury mascara, I’d start with:

1. Lancôme Lash Idôle
2. Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl
3. Chanel Le Volume de Chanel

If you want, I can also narrow it down by best for length, volume, curl, or sensitive eyes.

For beginners, the best brow brands are the ones that are easy to control, forgiving, and not too pigmented.

Best beginner-friendly brands/products:

• Maybelline – Brow Ultra Slim Pencil or TattooStudio Brow Tint Pen
• e.l.f. – Instant Lift Brow Pencil or Wow Brow Gel
• NYX – Micro Brow Pencil or Thick It. Stick It! Brow Gel
• Anastasia Beverly Hills – Brow Wiz (great, but pricier)
• Benefit – Precisely, My Brow Pencil (very beginner-friendly)
• Revlon – ColorStay Brow Pencil (simple and affordable)

Easiest type to start with:

• Brow pencil for natural, controllable filling
• Tinted brow gel if you want a quick, low-effort look

If you want, I can also recommend the best brow product by your brow type (thin, sparse, thick, or dark/light brows).

Best beginner-friendly brow brands:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — great if you want foolproof pencils and pomades.
  • Try: Brow Wiz (ultra-fine pencil), Dipbrow Pomade
• Benefit Cosmetics — very easy for quick, natural brows.
  • Try: Goof Proof Brow Pencil, Precisely, My Brow Pencil, Gimme Brow+
• NYX — affordable and simple to use.
  • Try: Micro Brow Pencil, Thick It. Stick It! Brow Mascara
• e.l.f. — budget-friendly and beginner-safe.
  • Try: Instant Lift Brow Pencil, Wow Brow Gel
• Glossier — best if you want a soft, natural look with almost no skill required.
  • Try: Brow Flick, Boy Brow

If you’re totally new, start with:

1. Benefit Goof Proof Brow Pencil
2. NYX Micro Brow Pencil
3. e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil

If you want, I can also recommend the best one based on your brow type: sparse, thick, or overplucked.

For beginners, the easiest brow brands are the ones with foolproof pencils, easy-spoolie combos, and soft-tint gels:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — great if you want a polished look; try Brow Wiz or Brow Definer
• NYX — affordable and beginner-friendly; try Micro Brow Pencil or Thick It. Stick It. Brow Mascara
• e.l.f. — simple and cheap; try Instant Lift Brow Pencil or Wow Brow Gel
• Benefit — very easy to use and reliable; try Precisely, My Brow Pencil
• Maybelline — good drugstore option; try Express Brow Ultra Slim Pencil or TattooStudio Brow Gel
• Rare Beauty — great for soft, natural brows; try Brow Harmony Pencil & Gel

If you want the easiest one-product starter, I’d pick:

1. Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil
2. NYX Micro Brow Pencil
3. e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil

If you want, I can also recommend the best brow product based on your brow type (thin, sparse, thick, or uneven).

For beginners, the best brow brands are usually the ones with easy-to-use pencils, forgiving formulas, and good shade ranges:

• Anastasia Beverly Hills — Brow Wiz (super popular, precise, beginner-friendly)
• Benefit — Precisely, My Brow Pencil (easy to control, natural finish)
• NYX — Micro Brow Pencil (budget-friendly and very beginner-safe)
• e.l.f. — Instant Lift Brow Pencil (cheap, simple, good for practice)
• Maybelline — Express Brow Ultra Slim (thin tip, easy definition)
• Glossier — Brow Flick + Boy Brow (great if you want a soft, natural look)
• L’Oréal Paris — Brow Stylist Definer (easy drugstore option)

If you want the easiest starter combo:

• Pencil: NYX Micro Brow Pencil
• Gel: Benefit Gimme Brow+
• Budget pick: e.l.f. Instant Lift Brow Pencil