It takes little to achieve fuller eyebrows. There are many options to create thicker eyebrows, from trusted eyebrow pencils to hair-growing serums. Brow tinting is another option if you want something that will last longer. Dr. Tiffany Libby is a brow expert at Hawthorne Studio Azi Sacks and the founder of Shobha Salon Shobha Tummala. Here’s everything you need about semi-permanent brow color.
What is Eyebrow Tinting
Semi-permanent dyes can be applied to your eyebrows to improve, shape, and define them. Sacks says tinting allows professionals to adjust the brow area by darkening fine hairs around the perimeter to increase their width. It also allows the specialist to darken the areas of less dense hairs within the inner core. This gives you a fuller front, a better shape, and a longer browline (brow tail).
She explains that tints are made from semi-permanent vegetable dyes or henna and can be mixed to match your existing color. You can do this at a salon or at home with at-home kits. Tummala says that it gives the illusion of thicker, younger-looking eyebrows. “We are not going to make your brows darker. We’re simply matching your natural color.”
How long does it take
Saks estimates an average session will cost between $35-$40 and take around 15 minutes. First, you will consult a specialist about how natural and full you want your eyebrows to look. The specialist will prepare the area by cleaning and applying petroleum jelly to the eyebrows to prevent skin staining. Mix and use the dye carefully, starting where your brow hairs grow. The second layer is used in the opposite direction. To achieve the best color, leave the paint on for a while. Then wipe off any excess with a damp towel. Do not panic if a stain appears under your eyebrows. Tummala assures that it will disappear within a few days. Consider scheduling your first appointment for Friday so that you can track the results throughout the weekend.
For Who is Eyebrow Tinting Best
Eyebrow tinting can be used on all skin types and skin tones. The process of tinting grey hair or white hair is more complicated. Tummala says, “Ensure you find someone who can tint eyebrows properly and does it frequently.” “Grey hair tends to be more stubborn and resistant than other types of hair, so it might be necessary to modify the process.
When will you see the results
After the treatment, you should avoid getting your eyebrows wet for at least 12 hours. You can also clean the area with cream-based or gel-based cleansers. Tummala says that your brows will look more full and stand out immediately. You can reduce the number of brow products you use in your beauty routine by using less. The tint lasts between three and six weeks. Tummala recommends that you visit Tummala every four to six weeks for touch-ups. Tummala also recommends avoiding exfoliating the area or using oil-based products, which will make the tint fade more quickly. Libby suggests avoiding products that could further irritate thin eyebrow skin, such as retinoids or retinol. As a protective barrier, she suggests applying a thin layer of Vaseline or Aquaphor on the skin around the dye to protect it from skin irritation. Sacks recommends using castor or almond oil to cover the eyebrows and prevent the tint from drying too quickly.
Is Dye Safe
The FDA has not approved eyebrow tinting dyes. According to Libby, there is no one standard dye formula. Many shades are available, and some need to be regulated. In California, any licensed salon or professional can administer dye to clients. She says that eyebrow tinting poses significant risks due to allergic reactions and infections. The skin around the eyes is thinner than the rest, making it more susceptible to irritation and allergic reactions. “Some permanent eyelash and eyebrow tints/dyes may contain a chemical allergen called para-phenylenediamine (PPD), which can cause severe contact allergy and even blistering reactions,” Libby recommends doing a patch test to see if you’re allergic to the dye being used before fully committing to a treatment. Always do your research before you commit to any beauty treatment. Before you book an appointment, ask for recommendations and review the experience.