Graying or Thinning Brows? Consider Tinting Them

Keep reading for what else you need to know before scheduling your first brow tinting appointment:

Is brow tinting safe for darker skin?

Brow tinting is 100 percent safe for darker skin tones. Both Davis and Phillips agree that the main concern is choosing a tint color that flatters your natural brow color and complexion for the most natural look.

So, how long does the process take? Anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes is about average. “For a coarser hair type, [the process] may take a bit longer due to a thicker hair follicle,” says Phillips, who has worked with Viola Davis, Naomi Campbell, Mary J. Blige and Serena Williams. The same goes for gray or white hairs.

“[If you have dark hair], the brow tinting [process] is quicker,” Davis adds.

Good to know: Brow tinting dyes aren’t FDA-approved. Furthermore, some states like California, New York and Massachusetts have banned eyelash and eyebrow tinting services. While allergic reactions are rare, they can still happen. Therefore, a patch test can and absolutely should be done one to two days leading up to your appointment. “I [had] a client [who was] allergic to [the vegetable dye] and … she puffed up like a blowfish. [In my] 20 years of being an aesthetician, only one client had an allergic reaction,” Davis says.

Be sure to also mention any medications you’re taking that could interfere with the treatment.

How to choose the right professional for you

There are hundreds of aestheticians and estheticians to choose from, but Davis says it’s important to choose one who shares your aesthetic.

She adds, “Some [professionals are] focused on waxing or facials, so depending on what you're looking for … [seek someone who] specializes in that craft.”

Phillips says the person should also boast a diverse clientele — meaning they should have plenty of experience with treating skin of color.

Positive reviews are a plus; but pay close attention to how you feel upon meeting them. Do they listen to your concerns and goals? Do they take their time showing you the different tint colors? Do they explain the different types of dyes they use? As with anything, do your research and look at photos of their work. These days, many beauty professionals boast a social media portfolio. And if their license isn’t hanging near their workstation? Request to see it, Sis.

Lots of brow tinting kits exist online but resist the urge to go the DIY route. Attempting to dye your brows at home can “hurt your eyes and cause permanent skin discoloration,” according to the FDA, which also warns of potential blindness.

As we grow older, wiser and more fabulous by the day, the growth rate for the hairs on our heads and brows naturally slow down. We lose some of the pigment as well. But a good tint can transform your arches in an instant. Just leave it in the hands of the pros.

Do I still have to fill in my brows after tinting? Is there any downtime?

The great thing about having your brows professionally tinted is that they appear filled in without the need for makeup. You shouldn’t have to fill in your brows much after tinting, but Phillips says it depends on the look you’re going for. "If you want a bolder look, a little fill-in might still be needed,” she says.

Compared to microblading and microshading, aftercare is pretty minimal and straightforward with brow tinting. “Avoid getting your brows wet for the first 24-48 hours…so that the tint [can set and] last as long as possible,” Phillips advises.

After the 48-hour mark, it’s fine to return to your beloved topical creams like vitamin C and retinol. (“Avoid any active topical creams at least seven days prior to your appointment," Davis cautions.) And when you cleanse your face in the morning and at night, don’t rub your brows too aggressively and opt for a gentle formula to help maintain the tint color.