All the Different Eyebrow Shaping Techniques

When it comes to eyebrow shaping, there are probably a few basic tips you’ve heard a time or two. You know, “they’re sisters, not twins,” or repeated encouragements not to over-pluck. But that isn’t enough! Eyebrows make the face—if you don’t believe it, quickly do an image search for the best celebrity eyebrows, and you’ll see what we’re talking about—which means eyebrow shaping is something we could all stand to know more about. Especially when you take into consideration that beautiful eyebrows are a major beauty trend at the moment. Find out all about different eyebrow shaping techniques, how to prep for having your eyebrows groomed, and how to style your eyebrows with makeup—including eyebrow pencils, eyebrow pomades, and eyebrow mascaras—below. 

EYEBROW SHAPING 101

Considering that beauty is all about the eyebrows right now, it should come as no surprise that there are a myriad of ways to shape your eyebrows—so you’ve got a few different options to think about if you’re considering making a change to your arches. Below, we break down three different popular eyebrow shaping techniques. 

EYEBROW TWEEZING

Tweezing is a fan favorite and for good reason. Opting to tweeze allows you to tackle all your eyebrow hair removal needs from the comfort of your very own home (a major bonus for convenience), and it certainly doesn’t hurt that when you’re wielding tweezers you’re able to be extremely precise, only plucking the exact hairs you need to. 

EYEBROW WAXING

Waxing is another popular eyebrow shaping pick, however keep in mind that it’s not as precise as tweezing. While at-home eyebrow waxing kits exist, going to a professional is also an option—and it may be a better idea to see a pro if it’s your first time grooming. The good news is, eyebrow waxing is a pretty quick process. 

EYEBROW THREADING

If you had to name the trendiest technique in eyebrow shaping, threading would have to be it. The technique itself has actually been around forever. Thin threads are used to remove individual hairs. Threading should be done by a professional. 

WHAT TO DO BEFORE AND AFTER EYEBROW SHAPING

You (and your skin!) will be thankful if you put in a little prep work before getting to work on your eyebrows. For starters, your skin should be completely clean before starting to tweeze, wax, or thread. Choose a micellar water to cleanse your skin without having to rinse. Micellar water is powered by tiny micelles—oil molecules—that act as a magnet to lift dirt, oil, and makeup up and away from the skin. The L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin hydrates and soothes. All you have to do is pour some out onto a cotton pad and wipe the pad across your face. After you’re done with eyebrow shaping, reach for a moisturizer. Moisturizing is always a must in any skin care routine. Choose a water-based moisturizer that matches your skin type, like the L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care for Normal/Oily Skin, L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care for Normal/Dry Skin, or L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care for Extra Dry Skin. 

HOW TO SHAPE YOUR EYEBROWS WITH MAKEUP

Makeup can be a total game changer when it comes to your eyebrows. Use it to shape, fill, and define to create your perfect arches. 

1. SHAPE WITH AN EYEBROW PENCIL

Choose an eyebrow pencil, like the L’Oréal Paris Brow Stylist Shape & Fill Mechanical Pencil, to easily and evenly shade eyebrows. Start with clean, brushed eyebrows, then use the edge of the eyebrow pencil to create a precise outline. Using the flat side of the pencil, shade, then use the tip to define the tail. To finish, blend with a spoolie. 

2. SHAPE WITH AN EYEBROW POMADE

Reach for an eyebrow pomade, like the L’Oréal Paris Brow Stylist Frame & Set. Dip a thin angled brush into the eyebrow pomade, then start by outlining your eyebrows. Draw in eyebrow hairs in sparse areas using the tip of the brush. Fill in to your desired intensity, then use a spoolie to comb through and blend eyebrows. 

3. SHAPE WITH AN EYEBROW MASCARA

Reach for an eyebrow mascara, like the L’Oréal Paris Brow Stylist Boost & Set Brow Mascara. Use the angled skinny brush in short, upward strokes to boost volume and build to your desired intensity and shape.

Can you ever know too much about eyebrows? Sounds unlikely! Next, read up on 8 Brow Hacks for Gorgeous-Looking Arches.