Blog post last updated 1.12.19*
Eyebrow trends have always been around. We may have plucked them thin in the 90s but this decade is all about the fuller look and it seems we are perpetually obsessed with achieving the perfect brow. It’s true that eyebrows frame our eyes, which is why they get so much focus and attention. A nice pair of brows will undoubtedly accentuate the eyes, but the number of brow products and treatments on offer can seem quite confusing. Whether you fancy a straightforward tidy up or a more extreme makeover, there are plenty of ways to help us improve and enhance our eyebrows – lets take a look at the different options:
Brow Lamination
Brow lamination is the new kid on the block. But what is it? If you have unruly brows that want to do their own thing, or they’re on the thin looking side, brow lamination can accentuate and amplify whatever eyebrow hairs you have. A bit like lifting your lashes, a solution is applied to keep them in place. The result is a feathered, fuller look as the strands of hair are fixed in place to lay neatly and cover any gaps, the effects of which can last for several weeks. If combined with a tint, this technique can create the impression of a thicker brow. It’s a less invasive option than microblading, without the pain or recovery time, but the results are not as long lasting. However, it is becoming a very popular alternative eyebrow enhancement.
Home Tinting vs Salon High Definition (HD) Brows
Brow-tinting involves dying the eyebrows to add some depth and definition, but mainly to make them appear fuller. It works by tinting not only the main brow hairs, but also some of those outer, lighter or blonde tipped hairs around the brow that you don’t normally notice, which helps to add volume to the eyebrows. The good thing is it frees you from needing to apply make up to your brows. However the results only tend to last 3-4 weeks before needing to be done again. But it is a quick and painless procedure – plus tinting is one of the cheaper options out there. You can do it yourself at home with a kit if you feel confident enough.
If you would rather get a salon to do your eyebrow tinting, you may want to opt for some ‘HD Brows’ – this is a 7-step salon process that shapes and designs your eyebrows, involving tinting, waxing, trimming, make up etc. to create the ultimate ‘high definition’ brow. It’s the full VIP service for your brows, especially if you like the flawless, full-on celebrity look and it is a service that’s tailored to suit your face.
Microblading
Microblading has become a very popular eyebrow enhancement in recent times. Also sometimes referred to as microfeathering and microshading, essentially this is a semi-permanent eyebrow tattoo, applied just below the surface of the skin, aimed at reshaping and enhancing existing eyebrows. Many beauty salons offer the service, which can make finding a reputable practitioner more difficult. Do your research and take the time to get personal recommendations and seek out trained and qualified practitioners for this enhancement. You need to factor in a little discomfort during the procedure and recovery time afterwards (in terms of apppearance as there will be some scabbing) before your brows are revealed to their full potential.
Eyebrow Extensions
You’ve heard of eyelash extensions, well eyebrow extensions aren’t too dissimilar. A technician will apply artificial brow hairs, gluing them either to the skin or to the existing hairs near their roots. But beware, you could be sitting for over an hour and they don’t last very long – some people say only a week – depending on how you look after them (you need to avoid rubbing them, putting make up on them or washing your face vigorously). They are pricey too, so probably best saved for a special occasion.
Threading
If you are blessed with a good brow, all you may need is a little eyebrow shaping. An ancient Indian hair removal technique, threading is a really popular way to achieve beautifully sculpted brows. Cotton threads are twisted across the eyebrow to tweeze out the unwanted hairs at the root and create shape and definition. It may be a little eye watering but the results are good! This service is available in salons and beauty departments/stores.
Eyebrow Make Up
Anyone can improve their eyebrow shape simply by using make up. A brow pencil is a tried and tested way to create an outline and fill in any gaps, intensify colour and shape brows easily without committing to anything more permanent. There are handy compacts that contain wax and powder – smooth on some wax with the angled brush provided then work in the powder to enhance those brows. Powder gives quite a soft look, so you may prefer a creamier brow pomade which is a waterproof colour that gives a more intense, HD style result. It usually comes in a little pot with a small brush, so you can use individual strokes to imitate brow hairs, or use one of the new pens that can draw on several hairs in one go for more of a microbladed look. Also check out tinted brow gels which are a quick and easy way to apply colour to your brows with a wand, much like a mascara – some products also contain fibres to fluff out eyebrows and make them appear fuller. Many of the cosmetic counters in department stores will offer a free eyebrow lesson if you feel you need some guidance, although they will of course also be keen to sell you their products. There are plenty of cheap and cheerful ‘off the counter’ eyebrow make-up products in the high street stores or online if you fancy experimenting.
Why not check out some online tutorials – e.g. you could try Pixiwoo, Huda Beauty, Lisa Eldridge for beautiful brow inspiration!
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*Editor’s note: this post was originally published in 2017 and has been revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness
© Copyright 2017 Antonia, All rights Reserved. Written For: Tidylife
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