Eyebrow tinting is a semi-permanent cosmetic procedure that helps shape, define, and darken the brows. While there are some benefits, it can also cause risks of chemical burns, allergic reactions, and infections.
You can visit a beauty salon or brow bar for brow tinting, and kits are also available for purchase at home.
You can speak with a professional for advice on whether eyebrow tinting is a suitable option, including information about the possible benefits and risks.
Eyebrow tinting involves painting a semi-permanent dye onto the brows. The whole procedure takes around 15 minutes.
The dye helps to shape and define brows. It can make them appear darker and fuller.
Eyebrow tinting typically lasts around 3 to 6 weeks.
Eyebrow tinting can be beneficial if you want to achieve darker and thicker brows. Feeling more satisfied with the way your brows look can help boost your confidence or self-esteem.
As the semi-permanent procedure typically lasts 3 to 6 weeks, you do not need to touch up or reshape your brows every day.
»Learn more:Ways to Grow Thicker Eyebrows
While eyebrow tinting may be a popular choice for enhancing the appearance of the brows, it is important to note that, like most procedures, there are some risks.
Brow tint formulations and color additives do not have Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. This means that they do not regulate the safety or quality of the products.
Permanent eyebrow tints have caused blindness, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. While eyebrow tinting is typically semi-permanent, it still carries the risk of serious complications. Infection is also possible.
A 2022 article reports a case of chemical burns after an individual received professional eyebrow tinting. The individual developed blistering in the area the day after the procedure. They also experienced significant swelling.
Many brow tints contain para-phenylenediamine (PPD), a common cause of allergic reactions. It is important to perform a patch test at least 48 hours before eyebrow tinting, and avoid using the product if symptoms such as swelling, discoloration, or blistering develop.
Anaphylaxis is also possible. This is a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. It can cause symptoms such as:
- shortness of breath
- dizziness
- swelling of the throat, mouth, or tongue
- coughing
- abdominal pain
- itchy skin
- rash
It is important to note that, even if you do not have a reaction to the patch test, this does not guarantee that the brow tint will not cause a reaction.
Semi-permanent eyebrow tinting typically lasts between 3 and 6 weeks.
You can speak with the person performing the procedure for more accurate information about how long they expect the results to last.
As the purpose of eyebrow tinting is to darken and define the brows, it may be a suitable option for anybody wishing to change the color or thickness of their brows, such as those with very light or thin brows.
Eyebrow tinting may not be suitable for people with a PPD allergy, as some products contain PPD.
Make sure you read the ingredients on the box kit for at-home tinting or speak with the professional performing the procedure for information about ingredients.
Eyebrow tinting kits are available for use at home.
However, many people choose to visit a salon or brow bar so that a professional can perform the procedure.
If you are tinting your brows at home, follow the care instructions that come with the tinting kit.
If you visit a professional for brow tinting, they will be able to provide you with instructions for caring for your brows after tinting.
If you notice any signs of chemical burns or infections, such as swelling, blistering, or discoloration, seek medical advice for treatment.
There are alternatives to eyebrow tinting that some people may find more suitable. These include:
- eyebrow pencils
- tinted brow gel
- eyebrow powders
- false eyebrows
If you are interested in an alternative that provides semi-permanent results, microblading might be a suitable option.
Eyebrow tinting is a semi-permanent procedure that shapes, darkens, and defines the brows. It usually lasts for around 3 to 6 weeks.
Possible risks of eyebrow tinting include chemical burns, infections, and allergic reactions. Always perform a patch test before using at-home kits or visiting a salon for a professional brow tint.
