“If the Eyes are the Windows to the Soul, the Eyebrows are the Drapes.......”

"If the eyes are the windows to the soul, then the eyebrows must be the drapes, and there’s nothing sexier than a pair of swanky curtains." How appropriate and hilarious is that quote? Ladies, Ladies, Ladies I cannot stress enough the importance of properly groomed brows. They frame not only your eyes, but literally your entire face, and unkempt or improperly shaped brows are extremely unacceptable. How many of us can admit to having an unfortunate experience when having our eyebrows done? I know that I have cried after having mine waxed by a non-reputable and/or not formally trained technician. This is a common mistake that we all have made. Don’t allow any facility or person who “does eyebrows” to do your eyebrows, BE PICKY!! I recommend visiting a boutique that specializes in eyebrows or allowing ONLY a professionally trained Esthetician groom your brows.

The following options are available for grooming brows:

1. Waxing - Eyebrow waxing is hands down the most popular option used and has been in practice for decades and decades. This option is fairly inexpensive and last anywhere from three to ten weeks depending upon the individual. Possible consequences of waxing include red, irritated skin, a slight burning or itchy feeling, or even a minor rash in the area where the wax was applied. This is more common when using physician prescribed topical treatments for acne or other skin conditions. Keep in mind that waxing is quicker, but removes massive amounts of hair in one strip allowing a higher margin for mistake. This is not an issue if the technician is experienced and properly trained.

2. Threading (My personal FAVORITE) - Threading is an ancient method of hair removal which originated in parts of India, the Middle and Far East, and is now gaining popularity in Western countries. 100% cotton thread is twisted and rolled along the surface of the skin entwining the hairs in the thread, which are then lifted quickly from the follicle. It is more precise than waxing and allows for better lines. Threading is highly recommended and an excellent option for those who use Retin-A, Accutane, or similar products.

3. Electrolysis - Electrolysis involves the use of a special electrode that delivers a minor electrical shock current to the hair follicle. The current kills the follicle at the same time as it removes unwanted hair. Because the hair is often in different stages of growth, electrolysis treatment may need to be repeated two or three times to make certain that all of the unwanted hair is successfully removed. This option must be performed by a licensed & trained professional because any mistake is irreversible. This is also obviously the most expensive of the four options, but only a few treatments are necessary.

4. Tweezing - Many women who choose to groom their eyebrows personally use the tweezing technique. Plucking with tweezers can be extremely painful initially but once the skin gets accustomed to the process the pain subsides. This option is the least popular because it requires the longest amount of time to complete. Tweezing will almost ALWAYS be used at the end of both the waxing and threading techniques to clean up the excess hairs.

No matter what option you select to groom your eyebrows, the shape is the most important part of the process. The eyebrow shape can enhance & frame your eyes, and balance your features. I have listed below some tips regarding how to properly shape your eyebrows.

Eyebrow Tips:

1. The highest arch of the eyebrow should be straight up from the outside edge of the iris. A straight edge, such as a ruler can be used to determine exactly where this line falls.

2. Pencil thin eyebrows are a definite NO! They cause the eyes to appear larger and is reminiscent of the 20's. Opt for a fuller eyebrow with a definite shape. However, be conscious of your personal features. Stronger features are complimented by stronger, fuller eyebrows, while delicate features are balanced by softer eyebrows.

3. Symmetry is the key component when properly grooming the eyebrows. Remember that the space between your eyebrows should be equal to the width of your eye.

4. Your eyebrows aren't twins, or sisters. They are more like cousins. It is virtually impossible for them to be perfectly identical!

5. Brow gel helps keep your brows in place all day. If you don't have gel, apply a dab of hairspray to your finger and apply to brows to keep unruly hairs in place. This tip is dedicated to my bushy eyebrow sistahs :)! Embrace the gel.

6. When filling in your brows, two colors are better then one! Use a lighter color on the thicker fuller part of your brows and a darker color at the tail ends. This is a trick that many celebrity pros use on their clients. Could also wet the brush when applying the color to the tail ends to darken the shadow as a opposed to using two colors.

7. When selecting an eyebrow powder opt for a soft-textured matte shadow that matches your hair color. Apply with an angle brush (that is used for eyeliner as well) and use short soft strokes that extend upward and out.

8. Using an eyebrow pencil to fill-in the brows is my personal favorite, however it can be difficult to master initially. Many women apply it incorrectly creating harsh strong lines that are visible to others. For a more natural look, use short soft thin strokes that "look like hair" and remember to blend with a firm eyebrow brush after applying. Also be sure that the pencil provides a dry finish as opposed to a wet finish.

9. Experts say that the ideal time for brow-shaping is the week after your period begins. Apparently it's the time during your cycle when your body is least sensitive to hair removal.

Every woman must ultimately find the most complimentary eyebrow shape for their individual face shape and features whether it be high arch, rounded arch or no arch. Look to your friends, co-workers and other people for inspiration when selecting an Eyebrow Guru. If you admire their brows, then schedule a consultation and express your wants as a client. Once again, BE PICKY!! Your eyebrows are extremely important and need to be treated with TLC.