In the ever-evolving world of beauty, achieving the perfect brows is a top priority. Two popular techniques have emerged for setting and styling brows: eyebrow gel and the trendy soap brows method. Both promise to tame unruly hairs and create a polished finish, but which one is better for you? In this article, we’ll compare eyebrow gel and soap brows to help you decide the best brow setter for your style and needs.
What Is Eyebrow Gel?
Eyebrow gel is a specially formulated product designed to hold brow hairs in place while adding subtle texture or tint.
Key Features of Eyebrow Gel:
- Comes in clear or tinted formulas.
- Provides a range of holds from light to strong.
- Usually contains waxes and film-formers for long-lasting control.
- Often includes tiny fibers for volume or pigments for color.
Benefits:
- Easy and quick to apply with a wand applicator.
- Great for both natural and defined brow looks.
- Provides flexible hold without making brows stiff.
What Are Soap Brows?
Soap brows involve using a bar of soap (usually glycerin-based or a special brow soap) and a spoolie to brush and shape eyebrows for a full, fluffy, laminated look.
Key Features of Soap Brows:
- Uses a damp spoolie to pick up soap and brush hairs upwards.
- Creates a feathered, lifted effect that lasts hours.
- Gives the appearance of laminated, voluminous brows without salon treatment.
Benefits:
- Creates bold, fluffy, natural-looking brows.
- Extremely affordable and accessible method.
- Customizable hold depending on the soap used and application technique.
Eyebrow Gel vs Soap Brows: The Comparison
| Feature | Eyebrow Gel | Soap Brows |
|---|---|---|
| Hold Strength | Varies from light to strong hold | Strong, especially with proper technique |
| Finish | Natural to polished, with optional tint | Fluffy, lifted, and textured |
| Application Time | Quick and straightforward | Slightly longer due to spoolie brushing |
| Versatility | Clear or tinted options available | Typically clear, no tint |
| Cost | Moderate, product-specific | Very affordable (using regular soap or brow soap) |
| Effect on Hair | Sets hairs in place with some flexibility | Creates a laminated, feathery look |
| Suitability | Great for all brow types | Best for fuller, thicker brows |
| Longevity | All-day wear with smudge resistance | Long-lasting but may need touch-ups in humidity |
Which Brow Setter Should You Choose?
Choose Eyebrow Gel If:
- You want a tinted option to add color and volume.
- You prefer a more controlled, polished finish.
- You want a product with varying hold strengths.
- You need a quick and fuss-free application.
Choose Soap Brows If:
- You love the bold, fluffy brow trend.
- You want a budget-friendly and DIY-friendly method.
- You have thicker brows that can be styled upward.
- You want the look of brow lamination without salon visits.
Tips for Using Both Methods Together
For the ultimate brow look, you can combine both:
- Start by brushing your brows with soap for volume and lift.
- Follow with a tinted or clear eyebrow gel to set the hairs firmly and add color or extra hold.
This combo offers the fullness and texture of soap brows with the lasting power and definition of gel.
Final Thoughts: What’s the Better Brow Setter?
Both eyebrow gel and soap brows have their unique strengths. If you want a quick, polished, and sometimes tinted finish, eyebrow gel is your go-to. For those seeking a trendy, fluffy, and voluminous brow look on a budget, soap brows offer an unbeatable solution.
Ultimately, the better brow setter depends on your brow type, desired style, and lifestyle. Experiment with both methods to find what works best for your perfect brows.