What Is Brow Lamination

If you’re craving the full, fluffy brows dominating your feed, there’s a salon treatment that may give your makeup routine a serious break: brow lamination. Think of it as a semi-permanent way to sculpt and lift your arches without a needle or pigment in sight.

We tapped top brow artists including Autumn Estelle, national brow and beauty artist with Benefit Cosmetics, Joey Healy, a celebrity eyebrow expert, and Josh Beeler, a lash and brow specialist at Shen Beauty to break down exactly what brow lamination is, how it works, who it’s best for, and what to expect if you give it a try.

What is brow lamination?

Brow lamination, often called a brow lift, is a professional treatment that uses a chemical solution to “relax” the texture of your eyebrow hairs, allowing them to be brushed upward and into a new shape. The result? A fuller, flatter, more lifted look that stays put for weeks.

“It straightens and redirects your natural brow hairs, giving the appearance of a thicker, more uniform brow,” says Estelle. It’s especially effective for creating that brushed-up, editorial brow vibe with no brow pencil or gel required.

Who should try it?

According to the pros, brow lamination works for nearly every brow type from sparse and thin to thick and unruly. “It creates the illusion of more volume and shape, even if you have less brow to begin with,” says Beeler. Plus, the results can last up to eight weeks, making it an excellent option if you're looking for a lower-maintenance beauty routine.

That said, those with very sensitive skin, eczema, or skin conditions around the brows should do a patch test or consult a professional before diving in.

The benefits of brow lamination

• Fuller, more defined brows

• Less daily grooming (no need to constantly brush or gel your brows in place)

• Instant lift effect for the eyes and face

• Works for all brow textures

What’s the treatment like?

The brow lamination process takes about 30–40 minutes. Here's how it typically unfolds:

1. Consultation: You and your artist discuss your ideal shape and look.

2. Relaxing: A cream is applied to soften the hair and allow it to be reshaped.

3. Shaping: Brows are combed into the desired position and covered with a setting solution.

4. Neutralizing: A second cream is applied to lock the hairs in place.

5. Shaping + trimming: Your artist may tweeze or trim stray hairs.

6. Hydration: A conditioning oil or serum is applied to nourish your brow hairs.

The entire process is painless and non-invasive, and you’ll walk out with noticeably fluffier, more polished brows.

Brow lamination vs. other brow treatments

Unlike microblading, which tattoos pigment into the skin for a longer-lasting brow shape, lamination simply manipulates your natural hairs so it's less invasive and fades over time. Compared to brow tinting, which only adds color, lamination focuses on texture and direction, but can be combined with tinting for an extra-bold look.

Aftercare tips

The first 24 hours post-treatment are crucial:

• Avoid getting your brows wet (this includes sweat, steam, and washing your face).

• Skip heavy creams and oils near the brows.

• Use a conditioning brow oil nightly to prevent dryness or brittleness.

Once set, you’ll enjoy up to eight weeks of lifted brows no product needed.

Is it safe?

Yes, when performed by a trained professional. That said, some people may experience redness, dryness, or sensitivity due to the chemicals used. Overdoing it (too frequent treatments) can lead to damage or breakage, especially in finer brow hairs. Experts recommend spacing appointments at least 8–10 weeks apart and using a brow serum or oil regularly.

Can I DIY brow lamination?

While at-home kits exist, most brow pros advise against it. The chemicals involved require precision and timing and the margin for error (hello, overprocessed brows) is high. If you’re looking to fake the look at home, try a strong-hold brow gel or wax for a temporary lamination effect.

Final takeaway

Brow lamination offers an easy way to enhance your natural brows and simplify your routine. If you’re after that sleek, brushed-up look and are tired of daily maintenance, this treatment might be worth the splurge. Just be sure to follow aftercare, hydrate your brows, and go to a trained professional.

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