How to achieve fuller eyebrows

Eyebrow tinting is a good way to add definition to your face. If like me you have sparse or fine brows, then this may be an option for you. Darkening the eyebrow hair can make it look fuller and thicker.

It's quick and easy, and the results are amazing! With tinted brows you can just wake up and go, as you don't have to go through the routine of filling your brows daily. You can do this at the salon or at home using an eyebrow tint colour kit, henna, beard dye, or natural non-permanent dye.

I prefer natural dyes as the face and eyes are sensitive areas. Hair dyes may be too harsh for your skin. Dying brows is a fairly simple process, however, ensure that you follow the instructions carefully. If your hair colour is dark brown or black, then you should use black dye. It's preferable to use a shade darker, as the tint will fade.

1. Cleanse

Wash your face with a cleanser or clean the brow area using a cotton pad with cleanser. There should be no traces of makeup or oils. Also ensure that your hair is tied back or away from your face.

2. Comb

Using a clean old toothbrush or mascara wand, comb out your brows and ensure that they are well shaped.

3. Protect the edges

Use a cotton swab to apply a generous amount of petroleum jelly above and below your eyebrows. This will act as a barrier to prevent the dye from bleeding or accidentally staining the skin around the brows. It will also soothe your skin, thereby preventing irritation.

4. Prepare the dye

Follow the instructions on the packet and mix the dye right before you use it. It should look like a thick paste and you only need a small amount. Do a spot test on a small area of skin, such as the back of your hand.

5. Apply the dye

Use a cotton swab to apply a thick coat over your brows. Start on the inside moving outwards. Cover one eyebrow completely then move to the next one.

6. Reapply the dye

Re-apply another layer until it looks thick. This will allow the colour to set quickly.

7. Wait

Wait for the desired amount of time as indicated on the packet. For commercial dyes, it should take between two and 15 minutes. For natural dyes such as coffee, it may take 15 to 30 minutes.

8. Remove

Wipe off the dye first with a dry cotton pad. If the dye didn't take, then re-apply. If you're happy with the colour then wipe off again with a wet cotton pad dipped in a liquid cleanser. Wipe with warm water.

If the colour is too dark, you can scrub your brows with cleanser. This will strip off some of the dye from your brows. Otherwise the dye will fade on its own in a few days.

The tint should last from two to six weeks depending on what you used and on how often you wash your face.