Henna Eyebrows, A Natural Alternative to Brow Tinting

Are you tired of persistently filling in your eyebrows? Say hello to henna eyebrows! This exciting beauty process involves using a henna paste to temporarily dye the eyebrows, resulting in a natural-looking and defined appearance. 

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about henna eyebrows—from their benefits and potential risks to DIY application tips.

What are henna eyebrows?

Henna eyebrows are a popular beauty trend that uses natural henna dye to tint and enhance the appearance of eyebrows, achieving a fuller, more defined look.

This method offers an all-natural alternative to traditional synthetic brow tints. It stains both your eyebrow hairs and the skin beneath them, giving you a bolder look that lasts longer than typical eyebrow pencils or powders.

It’s also a painless needle-free alternative to brow enhancements like microfeathering that require at least two weeks to heal and annual touchups.

Benefits of henna eyebrows

The benefits of henna eyebrows go far beyond just achieving a stunning and refined look.

Longer-lasting tint

Henna eyebrows offer a longer-lasting tint compared to traditional eyebrow tinting methods. The natural dye in henna stains the hair shafts and skin, resulting in a semi-permanent effect lasting up to six weeks.

Natural ingredients

Unlike chemical-based dyes, henna paste for eyebrows is made with all-natural ingredients, making it a safer and gentler option than traditional eyebrow tinters.

A fuller look of your eyebrows

Henna dye stains the skin beneath the hairs, adding extra depth and dimension to the brows, which can create a fuller appearance.

Image via Instagram @studiosunset2022

Henna vs. regular eyebrow tinting

Henna and regular eyebrow tinting are popular methods for achieving fuller, defined eyebrows. However, there are some key differences between the two techniques:

• Ingredients: Henna is made from natural plant-based ingredients, whereas regular eyebrow tinting often contains synthetic dyes.
• Longevity: Henna typically lasts longer than regular tinting—up to six weeks versus four weeks for traditional tinting.
• Coverage: Henna provides better coverage for gray hairs and can create a more dramatic look.
• Allergies: Those with sensitive skin may be more prone to an allergic reaction with regular tinting due to the chemicals used.

How to get the best results with henna eyebrow tinting

Several factors come into play that can significantly impact the outcome of henna eyebrow tinting. 

Skin type and sensitivity 

Those with oily or sensitive skin may find that their henna brows fade faster than others. 

Moreover, despite the natural ingredients, people with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation, redness, or itching during or after henna eyebrow tinting. 

Hair type and texture 

Henna eyebrow tinting works best on coarse, regular hair. However, if you have fine hair, it may not absorb the henna color properly.

Color selection

Choosing a henna shade that complements your hair color and skin tone is essential. However, you can also opt for a slightly darker or lighter shade to add depth and definition.

Image via Instagram @biohenna__global

How to prepare your eyebrows and skin for henna

Properly preparing your eyebrows and skin is crucial to ensure optimal results when it comes to henna tinting.

Clean the eyebrow area

To prepare your brows for henna tinting, start with a clean slate.

1. Gently remove makeup or skincare products using a gentle, oil-free cleanser from the eyebrow area.
2. After they’re dried, use a spoolie brush to comb through the eyebrows in the direction of hair growth.
3. Apply a pre-treatment solution that helps open up hair follicles and ensure even color absorption.

Avoid products that can affect the tint’s outcome

It’s important to avoid using makeup, moisturizers, and skincare products on your eyebrows for at least 24 hours before your appointment.

Potential risks of doing henna eyebrows

While henna eyebrows can provide stunning results, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with the process.

Common ingredients that can cause allergic reactions

Common ingredients that can cause allergic reactions when getting henna eyebrows include PPD (Paraphenylenediamine), essential oils and fragrances, and synthetic additives or preservatives. 

How to perform a patch test before henna eyebrow tinting 

To perform a patch test, apply a small amount of the henna mixture on a small area of skin, typically behind the ear or inner arm, and monitor for any adverse reactions.

Safety precautions for sensitive skin

Before henna eyebrow tinting, inform a technician about your sensitive skin condition or known allergies. Additionally, opt for henna products specifically formulated for sensitive skin or labeled hypoallergenic.

Choosing a qualified henna eyebrow artist

To ensure your henna eyebrow tinting is done safely and professionally, choosing a qualified artist is crucial.

How to research potential artists

First, ask your friends or family members who have had their eyebrows tinted for recommendations. Additionally, look for authentic sources and reviews online.

Once you’ve found a few potential artists, take some time to look through their portfolio of work. Choose someone who has experience working with different skin types and hair textures. Ensure that the studio or salon where the artist works practices proper sanitation protocols. 

What to ask before booking an appointment

Here are some key questions to ask before making your appointment:

• What type of henna do you use for eyebrow tinting, and is it safe and natural?
• Can I see examples of your previous work?
• What is the process like, from start to finish, and how long does it take?
• Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with henna eyebrow tinting?
• Do you offer any aftercare instructions or tips for maintaining my henna eyebrows?
• What is the cost of the service, and are touch-up appointments included in the price?

How to care for henna eyebrows after tinting

After getting your eyebrows tinted with henna, you must take proper care of them to ensure they last longer.

Moisturize the eyebrows

After the henna eyebrow tinting process, moisturize your brows to prevent dryness and flaking. Avoid using heavy creams or lotions that contain alcohol or fragrance, as these may irritate the skin and affect the longevity of your tint.

Avoid activities that can fade the henna tint

To prolong the life of your henna tint, you should avoid the following:

• Swimming: Chlorine and salt water can cause the tint to fade faster.
• Sunbathing or tanning: UV rays can also fade the tint.
• Excessive sweating: Avoid intense workouts or activities that make you sweat profusely to keep the dye lasting longer.
• Scrubbing your face: Avoid exfoliating around your eyebrow area for longer-lasting results.

When to schedule a touch-up

The frequency of your touch-up appointments will depend on various factors, such as your skin type and hair growth. As a general guideline, touch-up appointments are typically recommended every 4-6 weeks to maintain the desired color and shape of the henna eyebrows. 

DIY henna eyebrow tinting

If you’re uncomfortable going to a professional for henna eyebrow tinting or want to save money, try it at home. I like the henna brow kit from Mina which includes everything you need for a natural brow and lash tint.

What products and tools to use

First, you’ll require high-quality henna powder specifically for eyebrow use. Additionally, ensure you have Vaseline or any petroleum jelly on hand to protect your skin from getting stained by the henna paste during application. 

Use a spoolie brush on your eyebrows before and after the procedure for an even distribution of color.

Image via Instagram @lina.beauty.studio

How to properly mix and apply the henna paste

Follow these steps for a flawless application:

1. Choose a henna shade that closely matches your natural eyebrow color.
2. In a non-metallic bowl, mix the henna powder with water until you achieve a smooth consistency. Add a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar to help activate the dye.
3. Allow the mixture to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes so that the dye can begin to release.
4. Use petroleum jelly on areas surrounding your eyebrows (the forehead, temples, and under-eye area) to prevent staining that may occur during application.
5. Apply the henna paste onto each brow using an angled brush or cotton swab toward hair growth.
6. Leave the mixture on for 20-30 minutes or as your artist directs. Wipe off with wet cotton.

Safety considerations for at-home henna eyebrow tinting

Use quality and natural henna powder without any additives that can cause adverse skin reactions. Wear gloves when mixing and applying the paste, as henna can stain skin quickly, and try not to get the mixture in your eyes or mouth.

How to remove henna eyebrow tint 

Try using an exfoliating scrub or facial cleanser that contains alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). These ingredients break down the outer layer of dead skin cells where the henna dye has been absorbed.

Another option is applying oil-based products on your brows, such as coconut oil, almond oil, or baby oil.

Henna eyebrows FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions that can provide insights about henna eyebrow tinting.

How is henna different from regular eyebrow tinting?

Regular eyebrow tinting typically uses chemical-based dyes, while henna eyebrow tinting uses a natural plant-based dye derived from the henna plant that can provide a longer-lasting tint.

How long does henna eyebrow tinting last?

Henna eyebrow tinting can last up to six weeks, depending on how quickly your hair grows and sheds. Moreover, frequent exposure to water or oily skin types may cause the tint to fade faster.

Does henna eyebrow tinting cause any skin irritation or allergic reactions?

Although henna eyebrow tinting is generally considered safe, some people may experience redness, itching, or mild irritation after the procedure. 

How long does the henna eyebrow tinting process take?

Typically, the process can take 30 minutes to an hour for a professional artist to complete one session. After applying the henna paste to your eyebrows, there will be a waiting period between 10-20 minutes before you can rinse off and remove any excess dye.

How often should I get my henna eyebrows retouched?

The frequency of your henna eyebrow touch-ups will depend on how fast your hair grows and the intensity of the color you desire. Generally, it’s recommended to retouch every 4-6 weeks to maintain a consistent look.

How much does henna eyebrow tinting cost?

The cost of henna eyebrow tinting varies depending on the location and experience level of the artist. Typically, it costs anywhere from $30-$80 per session at a salon.

Can henna eyebrow tinting be removed if I don’t like the results?

Although henna eyebrow tinting is semi-permanent, you can try gently exfoliating the eyebrow area or using products with exfoliating properties to speed up the fading process.

Can I still apply makeup on my henna eyebrows?

Yes, you can still apply makeup on your henna eyebrows. Make sure the tint has dried and settled before you do.

Can henna eyebrow tinting be done at home?

Yes, henna eyebrow tinting can be done at home, but make sure to use quality products. Choose a reputable brand of henna powder specifically designed for use on eyebrows and get a henna eyebrow kit.

Should I use henna if I have oily skin?

Yes, you can use henna on oily skin. However, cleanse the eyebrow area thoroughly before the application to help the henna adhere better to oily skin. Additionally, choose a high-quality henna product specifically formulated for oily skin.

Takeaway on getting henna brows

Henna eyebrows offer a natural and longer-lasting alternative to traditional eyebrow tinting. This process is safe and suitable for most skin types. Still, it requires careful preparation and execution to avoid potential risks.

Remember to choose a qualified artist, perform patch tests, and follow proper aftercare to ensure the best experience and results.