I'd say "the brow is having a moment," but that would be a lie. The brow has been having its moment for a very long time. Some may argue too long...
I’m sure I’m not alone in walking down the street, gazing longingly (and somewhat confusedly) at women’s perfect brows, wondering just how much time and money has been poured into creating those masterpieces. Whether it’s micro-blading or tattooing or the myriad of other treatments available to perfect the brow, if you’re now overwhelmed and stressed about your eyebrows, you’re in good company. So I sought out the expertise of Carolyn Fox – founder of Garbo & Kelly – about what makes a great brow, and how to bring that vision to life at home. No blades or needles required.
Go to www.garboandkelly.com
Holding shot: Amanda De Simone| Stylist: Jamela Duncan | Beauty Editor: Isabella Schimid
There doesn’t seem to be a single Instagram post that doesn’t feature perfectly defined brows. Where has the recent brow obsession come from?
I think the increased popularity in brows has stemmed from awareness. People are talking about well-defined brows more now and are understanding the difference that it makes to a persons’ overall look. Brows are a very non-invasive transformation with instant results. As a society we love instant and dramatic results. Celebrities like Cara Delevingne and Kim Kardashian have really driven the conversation around brows and illustrated how impactful they can be to a person’s overall look. Instagram itself has also changed beauty trends. The really glam make-up look has seen a resurgence and with that has come a focus on brows.
Do you think that - much like the thin line of the 90s - these immaculately crafted creatures will simply be a phase of 2020?
I don’t think so, no. Personally, I hope thin pencilled eyebrows don’t ever come back – they are not flattering on anyone. Immaculately crafted eyebrows are here to stay because people have the knowledge and the product options now, to really create beautiful natural looking results tailored to their personal face shape.
Do we need to have tattooing, feathering or micro-blading to achieve great brows?
There is certainly a market for these services, there is no one-size-fits-all brow product or service that suits all needs. It is really about looking at what you are working with personally and finding the right service and product to achieve the results you desire. Some women have very sparse brows naturally or have lost facial hair from illness or pregnancy. In these cases, these more permanent treatments are a godsend as it helps create a base for them to build from at home with product.
How can we go about determining the best brow look for our own face?
Measuring is really the key. Having an understanding of where the brow should start and finish is the single most important factor in creating the perfect brow for you. We then need to consider such factors as a woman’s face shape, her natural hair growth, if she has gaps to fill, her face colouring and her overall look. Is she very natural or more glamorous? It is all about working with the individual’s natural features, personality and face shape to get the most ideal outcome for that person.
If we’re determined to make it work for ourselves at home, what are some of the products we need to have on hand?
- Brow Guides – to help create the perfect shape and aid in applying product with ease.
- A Brow Pencil – to fill for coverage and to personalise. Also great for defining.
- Brow Gel – to set the brow in place.
- Brow Powder – for creating density.
- Brow Pomade – great for high fashion looks – to last all day and take you from day to night.
What tips do you have for filling in or defining our own brows?
Always define along the brow with a Brow Perfection Pencil to create the ideal shape. Ensure you also use the Brow Perfection Pencil to personalise and enhance the brow tail. If you want to fill the brows for a smokey finish use Brow Powder, however if you have oily skin or want full coverage use Brow Pomade.
Are there any absolute no-no’s when it comes to brows?
Over tweezing! Sadly, once the hair follicle dies as a result of over-tweezing no amount of product or treatment will allow the hair to grow back naturally. Failing to measure your eyebrows is also a no-no.
What trends are on the horizon?
Whilst a well-defined brow is certain to remain on Vogue, I am a firm believer to refrain from following fad trends when it comes to brows. Instead find a style that is ideal for you personally. One that flatters and enhances your face shape and features. Don’t be a slave to fashion when it comes to brows – a timeless and classic approach is always best.