Bleaching your eyebrows removes their color entirely—there's no turning back! Conversely, lightening your brows provides a non-permanent way to alter your appearance. If you're keen on lightening your brows a shade or two without any lasting commitment, you're in the right place. Here, we've compiled some of the simplest methods you can employ to sport lighter brows without a major commitment.
Steps
Lemon Juice
This method is most effective when you'll be exposed to sunlight. Combine equal parts lemon juice and water, then apply the mixture to your brows using a spritz bottle or a cotton swab. The sun activates the lightening properties of the lemon.
- You'll achieve the best results if your brows are already a warm brown and you simply want to lighten them by a shade or two.
- The longer you're exposed to sunlight, the lighter your brows will become, so exercise caution! It's advisable to monitor them every 30 minutes or so, particularly if you anticipate spending several hours outdoors.
- Once you're satisfied with the result, use a damp cloth to thoroughly wipe off all traces of lemon juice from your brows.
- Although rare, direct application of lemon juice to the skin when exposed to sunlight can sometimes lead to a rash, a condition known as phytophotodermatitis.
Honey
Apply honey to your eyebrows and bask in the sunlight. Honey contains small amounts of hydrogen peroxide, gently lightening your brows when activated by the sun. For optimal results, use a spoolie to evenly distribute the honey across your brows. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then remove it with a damp washcloth.
- To achieve a lighter shade, you can reapply the honey. The longer you spend in the sun, the lighter your brows will become.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Combine equal parts apple cider vinegar and water. Dip a cotton swab into the mixture, then gently apply it to your brows. Allow the solution to saturate the hair, leaving it on for 15-20 minutes.
- Vinegar's lightening effects are more prominent when exposed to sunlight, but it will still work indoors.
- Since vinegar is highly acidic, it can cause skin irritation. Avoid leaving it on for more than 20 minutes and ensure thorough rinsing afterward.
Chamomile Tea
Open approximately 10 chamomile tea bags. Pour boiling water onto the tea leaves and mix until it forms a paste. Dampen your brows first (for better adhesion), then apply the mixture evenly over your brows, ensuring all hairs are covered. Leave it on for several hours and wipe it off with a damp washcloth afterward. For a lighter shade, repeat the process!
- Wrapping your brows with cellophane generates heat, speeding up the lightening process.
- Adding cinnamon intensifies the lightening effects, while honey provides a thicker consistency.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Utilize 3% hydrogen peroxide for a permanent brow lightening. Dip a cotton swab into the hydrogen peroxide and gently apply it to your eyebrows until saturated. Be cautious of drips! Consider applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly beneath your brows to prevent it from reaching your eyes. Leave it on for 5 to 30 minutes, then wipe it off with a damp washcloth.
- As hydrogen peroxide is transparent, you can monitor the lightening process to know when to remove it.
- Fine, lighter brows will require less time compared to thick, dark brows.
Concealer
Use a spoolie to apply concealer onto your eyebrows. Coat your eyebrows with concealer using a spoolie (a clean mascara wand), ensuring each strand is covered. Then, use another wand or eyebrow comb to remove any clumps for a natural look.
- Once you've achieved your desired look, dust your eyebrows with translucent powder to set the concealer.
- You may need multiple layers of concealer to achieve your desired effect. For optimal results, use different shades, starting with a shade or two lighter than your skin tone and gradually darkening with subsequent layers.
Eyebrow Gel or Pencil
Apply an eyebrow gel close to your desired brow color. Finding the perfect eyebrow gel may require some trial and error. To apply, simply brush it onto your brows using the included applicator.
- Start with a thin layer. You can add more if you want them lighter, but if you accidentally apply too much, you'll need to remove it all and start again.
- If you have black or dark brown brows, start with a shade slightly darker than your desired color, then layer a lighter shade on top.
- Consider using a brow pencil or micro pencil for precision. They are smaller and easier to control compared to thicker pencils or eyebrow gels.
Hair Dye
Blend permanent hair color with hydrogen peroxide for customizable color. Brush or comb your brows upwards to access the roots. Next, add 2 or 3 drops of hydrogen peroxide to your chosen hair color. Gently apply the solution to your brows with a cotton swab. Allow the color to process for approximately 15 minutes, then wipe your brows with a cotton swab and paper towel to remove excess color. Finish by wiping with a damp paper towel to remove any remaining residue.
- Opt for vegetable-based dyes to avoid damaging your brow hair.
- Always perform an allergy test prior to applying color to your brows, even if you've used the same color on your hair before. Eyebrow hair and facial skin may react differently than scalp hair and skin.
Tips
Warnings
- Take care to avoid getting any products in your eyes while tending to your brows. Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly beneath the brow can catch any drips and prevent them from entering your eyes.