Simple eyebrow shaping tips that will make the world of difference in putting your best face forward. We cover how to design your brows, to the tools you need, and how to reduce the "ouch" factor in our top ten do's and don'ts.
1. Decide on the eyebrow shape first
You need a plan of action on deciding where your brows are going to start, end, and where to place the peak of the arch. Use a white eyeliner or concealer on the hair that you want to remove, so you don't stray off course.
2. Use a quality pair of tweezers for your eyebrow shape
Most people opt for tweezers when shaping brows at home. You'll be frustrated, and end up taking twice as long if your tweezers slide off or break the hair instead of pulling them out- or can't grab onto short hairs. A good pair of tweezers cost about $20, and worth the small investment.
3. Trim brows if needed
Here's a very important eyebrow shaping tip. A big mistake people make is taking out more hair when trimming the excess length is really what needs to go. For men this helps make the brows look more neat and groomed and for women it helps them achieve that perfectly defined look and frames the eyes.
4. Clean up top of brows post eyebrow shape
I remember reading in my teen magazines growing up NEVER to touch the top of the brow. How things have changed. While I'm not suggesting going into the main shape of your brow, experts agree cleaning up the stray hairs above the shape creates a more defined, clean and can help troubled brows look even with one another.
5. Use an eyebrow pencil, powder or mousse for filling or correcting
If you have sparse brows, over plucked, or are growing out brows, filling them in will give you the look you want. Use the wrong products or technique and they will look painted on, instead of natural.
6. Don't stand too close to the mirror when eyebrow shaping
With some distance from the mirror you will be able to better see to balance your brows and see the 'whole picture' and have less chance of making brows uneven. After you have your shape in, you can then get close-up to better reach the finer, lighter hairs.
7. Don't put an eyebrow shape that isn't flattering to your face
Please keep in mind that arching your brow doesn't mean two perfect half circles or arches, which doesn't complement anyone's facial features. It does mean to clean up the excess hair to better frame your eyes.
8. Don't use ice to numb skin pre eyebrow shaping
Cold tightens the pores and can make a firmer hold on the hair follicle. You want to soften skin and hair by using a warm washcloth on brows, or do your shaping after your come out of the shower. If you're really concerned about the 'ouch factor' use a numbing spray first applied to a cotton swab and then to eyebrow area.
9. Don't shave eyebrows pre eyebrow shape
I know there are little razors sold out there specifically for your brows…but it's a no-no!
10. Tweeze correctly
Hold skin taut by gently holding skin firm with your free hand while tweezing, means less tugging and pain on the skin.
If the hair is just too short for tweezing, don't push the tweezers into the skin. Scraping, bleeding or even scarring can result if you get a little too forceful with your tweezers. Having some hair is a better option over broken skin. Instead, just wait until the hair is a bit longer and can be easily grabbed on to.

