Learn how brow salon owner Ciara Gallagher used her expertise to create her own product range: Browera.
When Ciara Gallagher opened her namesake brow salon in Bondi Junction nearly 15 years ago, she noticed a gap in the market for professional-quality brow pencils. After years of hand-sharpening pencils into her desired shape, Ciara realised she possessed the knowledge and passion to take matters into her own hands and founded Browera.
“Although I was fortunate enough to have first-hand market research to understand trends and customer needs, I struggled to find a manufacturer that could meet these requirements,” Ciara Gallagher, founder of Browera and Ciara Gallagher Eyebrows, explains. “It was very important to me that every detail of this brand aligned with my values and mission. Everything had to feel right and have meaning for me.”
Ciara describes Browera’s product development process as “lengthy and involved”, with refining formulas and perfecting the brand’s identity being some of the biggest challenges. Throughout the journey, she developed skills in product formulation, branding, digital marketing, and project management, plus an understanding of the financial aspects of creating a product-based business.
However, Ciara recognises that her 14 years of experience running a successful brow salon were invaluable and prepared her in many ways. “It provided me with firsthand knowledge of industry trends, client preferences, and the operational challenges of a brow business,” she says. “Each product is designed with professional input, ensuring it meets the performance needs of brow artists while being user-friendly for consumers.”
“It was very important to me that every detail of this brand aligned with my values and mission. Everything had to feel right and have meaning for me.”
While operating her existing business and building another one, Ciara admits she struggled to strike a good balance. At times, she felt the pressure of time constraints and guilt about focusing on one business over the other.
“I have become much better at delegating effectively and letting go of my control,” she reflects. “I’m sure most business owners would agree it’s not the easiest of tasks. I’m truly lucky to have a fantastic manager and team at Ciara Gallagher Eyebrows, not to mention the incredible loyal client base we have, who have been so supportive of both brands.”
The Browera range includes three signature products: BrowDefine Pencil, BrowSetter Ultra Hold Gel, and BrowQuench Oil (with more launches on the horizon). Having navigated running a brow salon and launching a brand, Ciara offers sage advice for service providers considering doing the same.
“Be personally clear and passionate about your end goal; you’re going to be tested along the way and will rely on that passion to get you through,” she says. “Gather first-hand market research and genuinely understand your audience’s needs. Start small to test the waters, gather feedback, and refine your offerings.”
In addition to finding resources such as podcasts, events, or social media groups, Ciara suggests networking with peers in your industry to seek their insights or support. “Don’t be shy in reaching out and asking someone who has already done it,” she says. “In most cases, people are happy to help.”
Words: Amy Hadley | Photography: Supplied
This article originally appeared in the Issue 02 2025 print issue of Professional Beauty magazine. Read it here.
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