As we get older, our hair starts to lose pigmentation and turn grey. This includes the hair on our heads as well as our eyebrows. While some people embrace their grey locks, others prefer to cover up grey eyebrow hairs. If you’re looking to camouflage greying eyebrows, using an eyebrow product designed specifically for grey hair can help.
In this article, we’ll discuss why eyebrows turn grey, review the best eyebrow products for grey eyebrows, and provide tips on how to apply eyebrow makeup for grey hair.
Why Eyebrows Turn Grey
Just like the hair on our heads, our eyebrow hairs contain melanin that gives them their natural color. Over time, the melanin levels in our hair follicles start to decrease. When there is not enough melanin present in the hair shaft, new hair growth comes in grey or white.
Loss of melanin typically starts around age 30, but can happen earlier or later depending on your genetics. Factors like stress, smoking, and nutritional deficiencies can also accelerate graying.
How to Choose an Eyebrow Product for Grey Hair
When shopping for an eyebrow product to cover greys, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Texture – Cream or powder formulas tend to adhere best to coarse grey hairs.
- Pigmentation – Opt for waterproof formulas with rich pigment to fully disguise greys.
- Undertones – Cool ash tones help offset yellowing in grey hairs.
- Coverage – Heavy-duty waterproof pomades or powders provide the most coverage.
- Tools – Angled brushes and spooley wands make application easier.
The Best Eyebrow Products for Grey Eyebrows
Based on the above criteria, here are our top picks for the best eyebrow products to cover grey hairs:
Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Full coverage, waterproof formula | Can be drying if applied too heavily |
| Smooth, creamy texture | Tricky to apply for beginners |
| 12 versatile shades |
This cult favorite pomade delivers precision filling and sculpting for brows. The highly pigmented, waterproof formula provides full coverage for grey hairs. It has a creamy texture that adheres smoothly to the skin and brow hairs.
NYX Micro Brow Pencil
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultra-fine tip for hair-like strokes | Requires multiple swipes for full coverage |
| Lightweight powdery finish | Not as long-lasting as pomades |
| Available in 10 shades |
This budget buy is perfect for filling and defining brows with natural-looking hair-like strokes. The ultra-fine tip makes it easy to conceal greys while the smudge-proof formula stays put all day.
Benefit Cosmetics Gimme Brow+ Tinted Volumizing Eyebrow Gel
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Tinted fibers adhere to brow hairs | Subtle color payoff |
| Fluffy look with light hold | Not ideal for significant shaping |
| Water-resistant wear |
Containing tiny microfibers that cling to your brows, this volumizing gel both thickens and tints in one simple step. The formula is great for minimizing the look of grey hairs while giving brows a fuller, fluffier appearance.
Maybelline Brow Ultra Slim Defining Pencil
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultra-fine tip | Wears off more easily than pomades |
| Buildable coverage | Limited shade range |
| Smudge-resistant |
For super natural-looking strokes at the drugstore price point, this skinny brow pencil is a winner. The ultra-fine tip makes hair-like details easy while the color glides on smoothly with no dragging or skipping.
L’Oréal Paris Brow Stylist Definer
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Mechanical pencil with built-in spoolie | Requires frequent sharpening |
| Waterproof and fade-resistant | Few shade options |
| Affordable price point |
This drugstore gem combines an ultra-fine pencil tip with a brush on the opposite end for grooming. The mechanical formula glides on easily and stays put all day. Quick touch-ups are a breeze with the built-in spoolie.
IT Cosmetics Brow Power Universal Eyebrow Pencil
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Designed to work on all hair colors | Expensive |
| Long-wearing, waterproof formula | Limited color options |
| Triangular shape for precision |
This unique “universal” shade was developed to work with all hair colors, making it ideal for graying brows. The velvety formula adheres nicely to skin and brow hairs for flawless coverage that won’t fade or smudge.
Covergirl Ultra Fine Brow Pencil
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultra-fine tip | Requires frequent sharpening |
| Lightweight, natural-looking finish | Color can fade throughout the day |
| Affordable price point |
For nicely defined brows on a budget, this drugstore find gets the job done. The super-slim mechanical pencil allows for precise, hair-like strokes to conceal stray greys.
How to Apply Eyebrow Products for Grey Hair
Once you’ve selected the right product for your brows, proper application is key to making greys disappear. Follow these tips:
- Exfoliate first – Use a gentle scrub to remove any dry, flaky skin and product buildup.
- Brush brows upward – Use a spoolie to reveal bare spots and areas that need filling in.
- Fill in gaps – Using light, hair-like strokes, apply product to conceal greys and fill in sparse areas.
- Define shape – Focus product on the upper and lower edges of your brows to sharpen their shape.
- Blend – Use the spoolie to soften and blend the product so it looks more natural.
- Set – Apply clear brow gel to lock your eyebrow makeup in place all day.
When using eyebrow pencils or pomades, opt for short, feathery strokes in the direction of your natural brow hair growth. Build up the color gradually for the most natural look.
Conclusion
Disguising grey hairs in your brows is simple with the right products and techniques. Look for eyebrow makeup designed specifically for concealing greys, such as waterproof pomades and highly-pigmented pencils. Using an ultra-fine tip to mimic real brow hairs is key for the most natural effect.
With consistent use of an eyebrow product made for graying hair, you can keep your brows looking lush, full, and vibrant no matter your age. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different formulas and shades until you find your perfect grey-concealing match.