Brow Lift
Brow Lift
Product Description
Product overview
An extreme-hold, clear eyebrow shaping wax that lifts, sculpts, and grooms brows into a fluffy, feathered "soap brow" look. Infused with Aloe Vera and Glycerin to condition while styling — all at a fraction of the price of salon brow lamination.
Salon-Style Laminated Look
Mimics the effect of professional brow lamination at home, lifting and setting hairs for a feathered, fluffy finish that lasts all day.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSalon-Style Laminated Look
Mimics the effect of professional brow lamination at home, lifting and setting hairs for a feathered, fluffy finish that lasts all day.
Conditioning Formula
Infused with Aloe Vera and Glycerin to nourish and hydrate brow hairs while styling, preventing dryness and breakage.
Universal Clear Finish
Dries completely clear with no white residue or flaking, complementing all skin tones and brow colors effortlessly.
Incredible Value
Delivers results comparable to the $23 Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze at a fraction of the cost — the ultimate drugstore dupe.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All 7 ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Ceteareth-30, an ethoxylated fatty alcohol that some fungal acne databases flag as potentially feeding Malassezia yeast. Use with caution if prone to fungal acne around the brow area.
Minimal formula with no oils, silicones, or heavy emollients. Very unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts around the brow area.
Free from fragrances, parabens, phthalates, triclosan, and sulfates. EWG rates all ingredients as low hazard. Patch test if you have very reactive skin.
100% vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients. Leaping Bunny Certified and manufactured in Fair Trade Certified™ facilities.
Safe to use alongside all brow pencils, powders, tinted gels, and setting sprays. Apply Brow Lift first, let dry, then layer color products on top.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeteareth-30 Main IngredientFilm-Former
A non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier derived from cetearyl alcohol. In this formula, it acts as the primary holding agent, creating a flexible film on brow hairs that keeps them locked in place without stiffness or flaking.
- Function: Provides extreme hold by coating each brow hair with a clear, flexible film
- Safety: EWG rated low hazard; widely used in cosmetic formulations
- Note: Also found as the base ingredient in ABH Brow Freeze
Glycerin HumectantProven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the brow hairs. Prevents the wax from drying out the hair while providing a flexible, non-crunchy hold.
- Benefit: Conditions and softens brow hairs while styling
- Science: One of the most studied and proven moisturizing ingredients in cosmetics
- Key Role: Same ingredient in bar soap that makes "soap brows" work
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract Soothing AgentProven
Aloe Vera extract provides soothing, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating benefits to the delicate brow area. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E plus natural polysaccharides.
- Benefit: Calms skin irritation and soothes the brow area during styling
- Hydration: Natural polysaccharides form a protective barrier that locks in moisture
- Antioxidant: Contains vitamins that help protect brow hair from environmental damage
Phenoxyethanol + Ethylhexylglycerin Preservative SystemStandard
A modern, paraben-free preservative system. Phenoxyethanol prevents microbial growth while Ethylhexylglycerin boosts its effectiveness and adds mild conditioning properties.
- Safety: Considered one of the safest preservative alternatives to parabens
- Function: Keeps the product fresh and free from bacteria during its shelf life
EDTA-2Na (Disodium EDTA) Chelating AgentStandard
A chelating agent that binds to metal ions in the formula, preventing product degradation and maintaining consistency over time. Helps the preservative system work more effectively.
- Function: Stabilizes the formula and extends shelf life
- Safety: Used in very small concentrations; EWG rated low concern
7 ingredients
Ceteareth-30, Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, EDTA-2Na
Where it fits in your brow routine
ROUTINEApply Brow Lift to clean, dry brows before filling in with pencil or powder. Let dry for 60 seconds before layering color products. Use on bare brows for a natural fluffy look, or as a finishing step to lock in your brow makeup.
How to use
HOW TO USEPrep Your Applicator
Slightly bend the spoolie end of the Brow Lift Applicator (sold separately) at about a 45-degree angle. This helps you brush through brows more easily.
Pick Up Product
Dip the spoolie or flat spatula end into the Brow Lift pot. A small amount goes a long way — you only need a thin layer for both brows.
Brush & Lift
On clean brows, brush the spoolie through your brows directing hairs upward and outward for a fluffy, lifted look. For a laminated effect, use the flat spatula to press hairs in the same direction.
Let Set & Layer
Allow 60 seconds for the product to set completely. Once dry, fill in sparse areas with your favorite brow pencil or powder if desired. Tighten the cap after use to prevent dry-out.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want the laminated or soap brow look without a salon visit
- You prefer an affordable alternative to ABH Brow Freeze ($23)
- You want extreme hold that keeps brows lifted all day
- You prefer a clean, clear finish with no tint
- You value vegan, cruelty-free, and paraben-free products
- You have light to medium-thickness brow hairs
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very thick, coarse, or stubborn brow hairs (may need multiple applications)
- You want a tinted formula that adds color and hold in one step
- You prefer a tube applicator over a pot format
- You dislike any stiff or "set" feeling on your brows
- You are prone to fungal acne around the brow area
Brow type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLifts and separates fine hairs beautifully, creating the illusion of fuller, fluffier brows with minimal product.
Ideal match. Provides extreme hold and a perfectly feathered laminated look that lasts all day without effort.
Works well but may require a heavier application or two coats for very stubborn, wiry hairs that resist shaping.
Lifts existing hairs for a fuller appearance, but pair with a brow pencil to fill gaps for a complete look.
Strong hold tames most unruly brows. For very curly hairs, dampen the spoolie first for extra grip and control.
Fragrance-free, minimal 7-ingredient formula with soothing Aloe Vera. Gentle enough for reactive, easily irritated skin.
Results timeline
2-4 WEEKSInstant Lift & Shape
Brow hairs are immediately lifted, sculpted, and locked into a fluffy, feathered position. The formula grips each hair and sets within 60 seconds for all-day hold.
95% noticed instant liftLong-Lasting Hold
Brows stay lifted and in place throughout the day. The flexible hold means they don't feel stiff or crunchy, and the clear formula remains invisible with no flaking.
85% report all-day holdExtended Wear
Most users report brows staying put for a full workday and beyond. Some relaxation may occur on very oily skin or in high humidity, but overall shape is maintained.
70% maintain shape past 10 hoursConditioning Benefits
With regular use, the Glycerin and Aloe Vera in the formula help keep brow hairs conditioned, softer, and more manageable over time compared to harsh soap-based styling methods.
65% noticed softer browsRatings by platform
32K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value — comparable results to the $23 ABH Brow Freeze
- Extreme hold keeps brows lifted and styled all day
- Clean, minimal 7-ingredient formula with conditioning benefits
- Clear finish with no white residue or flaking
- 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and Fair Trade Certified
- Works for all skin tones and brow colors
- Easy to achieve both fluffy and laminated brow looks
Criticized
- Applicator/spoolie sold separately (extra ~$4 purchase)
- Can dry out in the pot if lid is not sealed properly
- Some users find it takes longer to dry than other brow gels
- May not hold very thick, coarse brow hairs as effectively
- Faint hair-gel scent may bother those extremely sensitive to smells
- Small 0.31 oz pot may not last long with daily use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESVery similar extreme-hold formula in a tube format instead of pot. Slightly more portable but some users report white residue. Contains Vitamin E that e.l.f. lacks.
Popular hack for extreme brow hold at rock-bottom price. Not designed for brows, so it lacks conditioning ingredients and may be harsher on delicate brow hairs over time.
Same brand, even cheaper. Requires water activation and works like actual soap brows. Slightly less hold than Brow Lift and takes more effort to apply, but great for a softer, more natural look.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEe.l.f. Brow Lift
Benefit 24-Hour Brow Setter
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Tighten the cap securely after each use to prevent the product from drying out.
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme heat or direct sunlight. Always ensure the lid is tightly sealed to maintain product consistency.
Small screw-top pot (jar) with clear window. Compact and lightweight. Applicator sold separately.
Yes — compact 0.31 oz pot is well under the 3.4 oz / 100ml TSA carry-on limit. Solid gel-wax formula won't spill in your bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The e.l.f. Brow Lift contains only 7 simple ingredients, none of which are flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. There are no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or other commonly restricted pregnancy ingredients. The formula is also fragrance-free and paraben-free. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Use with caution. The main ingredient, Ceteareth-30, is an ethoxylated fatty alcohol that some fungal acne resources flag as a potential trigger for Malassezia yeast. While it is not a fatty acid or ester (the most common FA triggers), those who are highly sensitive to fungal acne around the brow area may want to patch test first or opt for a confirmed FA-safe alternative.
Yes. Since e.l.f. Brow Lift is a styling product applied to brow hairs (not an active treatment), it does not interact with skincare actives like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. Simply apply your skincare first, let it absorb fully, then style your brows with Brow Lift. Avoid applying directly over freshly applied retinol or acids on the brow area if your skin is sensitive.
The e.l.f. Brow Lift works best for fine to medium brow hairs, where it delivers an instant fluffy, laminated look with minimal effort. It also works well on thick brows but may require a heavier application. For very stubborn or coarse brow hairs, dampening the spoolie before dipping into the product can improve grip and hold. It's ideal for anyone who wants the soap brow or brow lamination look at home.
Results are instant! Within 60 seconds of application, the formula sets and your brows will be visibly lifted, shaped, and held in place. This is a styling product, not a growth treatment, so there is no waiting period. The conditioning benefits from Aloe Vera and Glycerin may make brow hairs feel softer and more manageable after several weeks of regular use.
Apply Brow Lift after your skincare and foundation/concealer, but before filling in brows with pencil or powder. Style your brows with Brow Lift first, let it set for 60 seconds, then layer color products on top. Alternatively, you can apply it as the last brow step to lock in pencil or powder you've already applied. For best adhesion, make sure brows are clean and free of heavy oils or moisturizers.
No, the e.l.f. Brow Lift has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The formula contains no oils, silicones, or heavy emollients that are commonly associated with pore clogging. With only 7 simple ingredients, it is one of the cleanest brow styling products on the market and is very unlikely to cause breakouts around the brow area.
The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. However, the most common complaint is that the product can dry out in the pot if the lid is not tightly sealed after each use. To maximize its lifespan, always screw the cap on firmly, store at room temperature, and avoid leaving the pot open while doing your makeup. If it starts to dry out, some users report that adding a drop of water to the surface can temporarily restore the consistency.
Verdict: The e.l.f. Brow Lift is a standout drugstore product that delivers salon-quality brow lamination results at an unbeatable price. With a clean 7-ingredient formula featuring conditioning Aloe Vera and Glycerin, it lifts, sculpts, and holds brows in place all day — rivaling the iconic $23 ABH Brow Freeze for just $6. The main drawbacks are the separately sold applicator and the product's tendency to dry out if not sealed properly. For anyone looking for the fluffy, feathered soap brow look without the salon price tag, this is one of the best values in the entire brow category. A must-try for budget-conscious beauty lovers.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|
|
| 1 |
Ethylhexylglycerin
Skin Conditioning, Deodorant
|
|



