Brow lamination is a semi-permanent beauty treatment that sculpts and sets your natural brow hairs into the shape you desire. The process involves applying a chemical solution to the brow area to break down the hair cuticles so the hairs become more pliable. Brow techs then use a brow brush to shape the brow hairs up or down. This results in laminated brows that look fuller and more defined and last for weeks.
What is Brow Lamination?
Brow lamination is a semi-permanent treatment that lifts, sets and smooths brow hairs into a more uniform and defined shape. Also known as a “brow lift” or “eyebrow perm” the process involves restructuring brow hairs with a gentle chemical solution that keeps them in place for weeks. This is great for those with thin, sparse or unruly brows as it creates the illusion of fuller, fluffier brows without the need for makeup or procedures such as microblading.
This is a treatment that brow artists and brow specialists use with their advanced lamination formulas to give their clients a bespoke brow groomer experience. Laminated brows help to achieve a brow shape and enhance natural brow features.
Benefits
Brow lamination has many benefits which is why it’s a popular choice for those who want a low-maintenance yet dramatic brow transformation:
- Fuller and more defined: By lifting and setting the brow hairs lamination creates the illusion of thicker, more shaped brows.
- Fixes asymmetry: If your brows have uneven growth patterns this treatment helps to align them for a more symmetrical look.
- Tames the wild hairs: Great for those with coarse, curly or downward growing brow hairs, lamination smooths and holds them in place.
- Long lasting: Unlike brow gels and pomades lamination gives you a groomed look that lasts for weeks.
- Low maintenance: No more daily brow styling; laminated brows maintain their shape with minimal effort.
- A non-invasive alternative to microblading: If you’re not keen on permanent eyebrow tattooing lamination is the pain-free alternative.
- Works on all hair types: Whether you have thin, thick or curly brows brow lamination can be customized to your hair texture and hair cuticles.
Who is a good candidate?
Brow lamination is suitable for most but it’s especially good for those who:
- Have sparse brows and want to look fuller.
- Have coarse, curly or downward-growing brow hairs.
- Want a structured yet natural brow without makeup.
- Looking for a temporary alternative to microblading or other permanent brow treatments.
- Have uneven brows that need shaping. But if you have sensitive skin, eczema, chronic skin conditions or allergies to chemical treatments please consult a professional first.
Preparation
Preparation is key to getting the best results and minimising irritation:
- No Retinol or AHA/BHA products: These will make your skin more sensitive to the treatment.
- Don’t wax or thread your brows: Leave your brow hairs alone to have maximum flexibility during the procedure.
- Do a patch test: If you have sensitive skin or allergies, request a patch test 24-48 hours before your appointment.
- Clean and makeup-free brows: Come in with clean, dry, makeup-free brows for the best adhesion of the lamination solution.
Process
The brow lamination process takes about 45-60 minutes and is quick and easy. Here’s what to expect during your appointment:
- Consultation – Your technician will start with a consultation to assess your natural brow shape and discuss the look you want. Using brow mapping techniques, they’ll determine the best shape for your face and you.
- Cleansing – Your brows will be cleaned using gentle brow products to remove any oils, dirt or makeup residue. This will ensure the lamination solution adheres properly.
- Lifting Solution – A gentle chemical lamination solution is applied to your brows. This solution breaks down the bonds in the brow hairs so they can be reshaped and realigned.
- Brow Shaping – The brow hairs are then brushed up and shaped into place. This is done carefully so each hair is in place and will stay there after the treatment.
- Plastic Wrap – During the processing phase, a plastic wrap is applied over your brows. Processing time varies depending on your hair type—4-7 minutes. This allows the lamination solution to penetrate fully and give the desired result.
- Conditioning Treatment – Once the lamination is done, a nourishing brow balm or keratin serum is applied to hydrate and strengthen the brow hairs. This step keeps your brows healthy and moisturized.
- Optional Tinting – If you want more definition, you can add a tinting service to darken the hair. This step enhances the look and gives your brows a more defined and polished finish.
- Final Grooming – Your technician will finish by refining the shape of your brows. They may use an angled eyebrow gel applicator or tweezers to perfect the shape and make sure your brows are symmetrical and flawless.
Aftercare
To get the best results follow these aftercare instructions:
- No water, sweat or steam for 24-48 hours.
- Don’t touch or brush your brows too much.
- Keep your brows hydrated with a brow gold or brow lamination gel.
- Avoid harsh products around the brow area.
- Use a brow brush daily.
Results
You can see the results instantly: laminated brows look fuller, more defined and perfectly shaped. The treatment also keeps the brow area defined and hairs in place without the need for daily brow styling or brow products like brow pencils or brow gels. The natural texture of the brow hairs is enhanced and the brow area looks smooth and polished. Laminated brows last 6-8 weeks and gradually soften as the natural brow growth cycle continues. Maintenance appointments are required to keep the look.
How long does it last?
Brow lamination lasts 6-8 weeks but this can vary depending on hair type and individual aftercare. Some may see the results fade faster especially if not following aftercare instructions. If you want to maintain a sculpted and full brow look, we recommend maintenance appointments every 6-8 weeks.
Risks and Side Effects
Although safe, brow lamination may cause:
- Skin irritation or redness
- Dry or brittle brows if over-processed
- Allergic reactions (that’s why we do a patch test)
- Temporary hair shedding in rare cases
- Inflamed skin if not taking care of the brows after treatment
Price
Pricing varies from salon to salon and brow artist to brow artist; on average, brow lamination costs between $60-$150 per session. Prices may vary depending on location, services (Brow Mapping or additional tinting) and salon reputation. Many brow studios offer package deals for multiple treatments which can be more cost effective in the long run, and some also provide professional brow lamination courses for aspiring brow artists.
FAQ
Can I wear makeup after brow lamination?
Wait 24-48 hours before applying eyebrow pencil or other cosmetics.
Does brow lamination hurt?
No, it’s a painless semi-permanent treatment.
How often should I get brow lamination?
Every 6-8 weeks.
Can I laminate my brows if I have thin hair?
Yes, brow lamination can enhance individual hair for a fuller brow look.
What if I get my brows wet within hours after treatment?
Exposure to water can disrupt the eyebrow lamination process, causing uneven results.
Can I do a Brow Lamination at Home?
There are brow lamination kits available at home, but we don’t recommend doing it at home. To get the look you want and avoid mistakes book a professional brow lamination service at a reputable brow studio.