ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Brown Mascara Gains Popularity for Natural Makeup Looks, with New Product Launches and Expert Recommendations

publication · 2026-04-07

The trend of no-makeup makeup is seeing a rise in the popularity of brown mascara, which offers a gentler option compared to traditional black. Today, Ilia introduced its new shade, Before Dawn, following nearly a thousand requests from customers over the last year. Celebrity makeup artist Aubrey Heller has observed a surge in interest for brown mascara, spurred by social media. This shade subtly enhances eyes across different lash colors. Professional makeup artist Elie Maalouf notes its attractiveness for those with fair skin and red hair, as well as for women over 50. Makeup artist Ariane Victoria recommends layering it with black for a bolder look. Vogue highlights Ilia's Before Dawn alongside Maybelline's True Brown, Chanel's 30 Noir Brun, Hourglass's Espresso, Dior's 698 Chestnut, Essence's Brown, YSL's Brown, Refy's Brown, and Westman Atelier's Clean Brun.

Key facts

  • Brown mascara popularity is rising due to natural makeup trends
  • Ilia launched Before Dawn brown mascara today after years of customer requests
  • Celebrity makeup artist Aubrey Heller reports increased client inquiries
  • Brown mascara works for various lash colors including blonde, red-toned, and dark
  • Professional makeup artist Elie Maalouf notes benefits for fair features and women over 50
  • Makeup artist Ariane Victoria recommends layering brown with black for drama
  • Vogue curated nine brown mascara recommendations with different benefits
  • Testing combines expert recommendations with editorial evaluation of multiple factors

Entities

Artists

  • Aubrey Heller
  • Sasha Plavsic
  • Elie Maalouf
  • Ariane Victoria
  • Dionne Phillips
  • Kelsey Deenihan Fisher
  • Stevi Christine
  • Andrea Tiller
  • Timothy MacKay
  • Donni Davy
  • Christina Cassell
  • Jennifer Coolidge
  • Alexandra Daddario
  • Sydney Sweeney
  • Chelsea Handler
  • Shaboozey
  • Reese Witherspoon
  • Emma Roberts
  • Kiana Murden
  • Conçetta Ciarlo
  • Morgan Fargo

Institutions

  • Vogue
  • Ilia
  • Maybelline
  • Chanel
  • Hourglass
  • Dior
  • Essence
  • YSL Beauty
  • Refy
  • Westman Atelier
  • British Vogue
  • TikTok
  • Euphoria

Locations

  • Nashville
  • United States
  • New York City

Sources