How to Bleach Your Eyebrows Safely at Home

Bleached eyebrows have become one of the most striking beauty trends, seen everywhere from high-fashion runways to social media feeds. Whether you're looking for a bold, edgy transformation or simply want to soften your brow color, lightening your eyebrows can be a fun way to change up your look. But before you reach for the bleach, it’s important to know the risks.

Bleaching your brows involves applying a strong chemical near your eyes, which can cause irritation, burns, or even permanent damage if not done correctly. In fact, some states restrict or even ban professional brow bleaching due to safety concerns. So, if you plan to try this trend at home, here’s what experts say you need to know to do it safely.

Why Do People Bleach Their Eyebrows?

For some, bleached brows create a high-fashion, avant-garde aesthetic. Others lighten their brows to better match their hair color or achieve a softer, more ethereal look. “Bleaching eyebrows can create a striking contrast with darker hair, offering a unique and edgy look,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hannah Kopelman. “Others opt for this change to complement lighter hair colors, achieving a more cohesive appearance.”

What to Do Before You Bleach Your Brows

Before you begin, preparation is key to reducing risks and achieving the best results.

1. Choose the Right Bleach

Not all hair bleach is safe for your face. Look for a bleach specifically designed for facial hair, like Sally Hansen Extra Strength Crème Hair Bleach for Face, which contains hydrogen peroxide for gentle lightening. Avoid using standard hair bleach, which is too harsh for the delicate brow area.

2. Do a Patch Test

To avoid allergic reactions or irritation, apply a small amount of the bleach mixture to your inner arm and wait 24 hours. If you experience redness, itching, or burning, do not proceed with bleaching your brows.

How to Bleach Your Brows at Home Safely

While each bleaching kit comes with its own set of instructions, these general guidelines will help you minimize risks.

1. Protect Your Skin

Bleach can be harsh on the delicate skin around your brows, so apply a barrier like Vaseline or Aquaphor around the area before starting. This helps prevent irritation and accidental lightening of the surrounding skin.

2. Follow Mixing and Application Instructions Carefully

Every bleaching kit has specific instructions for mixing and timing. Stick to them exactly this is not the time to experiment. Apply the bleach evenly using the included spatula or a clean spoolie brush.

3. Watch the Clock

Leaving bleach on for too long can damage both your brows and skin. Most facial bleaches should be left on for 8 to 13 minutes, but always refer to the instructions in your kit. Once time is up, rinse thoroughly with cool water and a mild shampoo to remove any residue.

How to Care for Bleached Brows

Since bleaching weakens brow hairs, proper aftercare is essential to keep them healthy.

• Condition regularly. Use a brow serum like The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum to strengthen and nourish the hairs.

• Avoid harsh skincare products. Skip retinol, exfoliants, and other strong actives around your brows for at least a few days post-bleaching.

• Protect from the sun. UV exposure can make irritation worse and cause skin discoloration. If you’ll be outside, wear a hat or use a gentle, mineral-based sunscreen.

How Long Do Bleached Brows Last?

Bleached eyebrows typically last four to six weeks before new growth appears. If you want to maintain the look, be prepared for touch-ups every few weeks. However, over-bleaching can weaken brow hairs, so dermatologists recommend giving your brows a break between sessions.

The Bottom Line

Bleaching your brows can be a fun way to transform your look, but it requires careful handling to avoid irritation, damage, or even serious injury. Always use a facial-safe bleach, follow instructions exactly, and prioritize aftercare to keep your brows healthy. If you’re unsure, consider consulting a professional instead of taking the DIY route.

Want more expert-backed beauty tips? Subscribe to our newsletter.