Brow Know-How
When it comes to the topic of eyebrows, they’re a business all their own. Waxed, tweezed, threaded, trimmed, tattooed, tinted, and now you can even have extensions applied! Not finished yet. This is just the grooming and maintenance section. You can enhance them even further with products such as: eyebrow pencils, brow powders, brow gels (clear or tinted), and brow wax. These products help to achieve a desired shape, color, and texture to the brows. Let’s face it: not all of us were born like Brooke Shields. Sometimes we can use a little extra help. Why all the fuss? Eyebrows play a large role in adding definition and balance to our facial features. I say, if you can’t afford your botox this month, fill in your eyebrows for an instant eye lift. That will get you by! So next time you’re at the mirror, study what’s going on, and if you feel you could benefit from some brow love, then follow my tips below.
Grooming/Maintenance
- Shape: This is a make-or-break situation!! The best advice I can give is to see a professional. Form a relationship with your hair-removal specialist so you two can establish trust, and for him/her to get to know your eyebrows. Your results will stay consistent this way. Don’t bounce around to whomever is doing your pedicures at the moment. Literally, taking one too many hairs can ruin the shape, and an experienced brow specialist knows this. Get recommendations from friends whom you trust and who have beautifully quaffed brows themselves.
- Tweezers: Invest in a high-quality pair of tweezers. It’s worth it. They’ll actually grab the finest of hairs with ease, and you’re less likely to pinch your delicate skin--which really hurts! I prefer slanted tweezers over needle-point tweezers. I’ve had better success with them. Have your esthetician discuss what hairs you can tweeze in between your waxing/threading appointments. You’ll mainly be removing the hair between your brows or just below your arch. Be cautious here and don’t over-tweeze.
- Brow Scissors: Perfect for trimming any wild and unruly hairs. Brush your eyebrows upwards, and trim any extra-long guys poking out. Then brush them down and repeat the process. Do not cut into the brow shape; cut only the stragglers. No one needs to be walking around with crazy OMBs (Old Man Brows)! I highly encourage men to trim too.
- Tinting: Fair-haired clients could benefit from brow and lash tinting. It helps to define features and last up to 2-4 weeks. Most dyes are vegetable-based, and the process is quick and painless. See your professional hair colorist or/esthetician.
- Permanent Makeup: I’m probably not the most objective person to endorse this service; I’ve see too many hack-jobs over the years! In my opinion it’s rare to see a beautiful tattooed eyebrow or any permanent makeup for that matter. If you’re pondering the idea, do your research, and schedule a consultation to see samples of the professional’s work. After all…it is permanent and no amount of makeup-remover will help!
Products
- Pencils: Are best for creating the illusion of hair and really help define or enhance someone’s shape. Pencils add additional color, giving a more polished look to the eyebrows. Apply with a quick flicking motion and light pressure, then blend out with a brow brush. Pencils are great for all types of eyebrows, especially those that lack hair and fullness.
- Powders: Are great for enhancing a nice full brow that may have a few patchy areas. Most of the time it’s the arch of the brow through the tail-end that needs a bit of powder. Dip an angled brow/eyeliner brush into brow powder, then lightly pull through the desired areas. Blend well. I also like to go over a penciled-in eyebrow with a brow powder to add a smooth finish. Powders are great for all types of eyebrows, but best for a full brow.
- Brow Gels: Are a multi-use product. I use a clear brow gel to keep my brows in place. Gels give a final seal and enhance natural texture. An all-in-one definer and finishing product tints and adds texture to your brows. Glide through brows in a soft upwards motion following the hair. You can find brow gels that have actual fibers in the formula that cling to fine hairs to help to give the appearance of a fuller brow. I love brow gels for their ease, efficiency, outcome, and natural look. Gels are great for all types of eyebrows.
- Brow Wax/Pomade: Are highly pigmented, water-resistant, wax-based products that are great for oily skin types or if perspiration is an issue. It’s the worst when a hot flash strikes, and your eyebrows are melting too! Pomade can be a bit tricky to master because of its intensity; a little goes a long way! Apply with an angled brow brush and lightly sweep into the brow, blending thoroughly. Brow Wax/Pomade is great for all types of eyebrow’s, but best for an ultra-defined look.
- Brow Serums: Are something you don’t hear much about, but are great for those suffering with thinning eyebrows. I have turned many clients on to serums and it’s changed their life--their words; not mine. If you have hair missing in spots or the ends of your eyebrow are disappearing, maybe consider this an option.
Nowadays there are so many products to choose from when enhancing your brows. A well-groomed eyebrow is something I highly recommend for looking more rested and youthful and giving a simple, but modern, appearance. Find what enhances your features. Please send questions or comments my way. I like to hear them and I love to help!
XO- Shanie Crosbie