Thinning brows: why are eyebrows losing density?

The subtle shift is often overlooked, but eyebrow density is declining for many. It's a common aging effect, yet exacerbated by trends and careless habits. Experts say it’s not simply a matter of time.

Makeup artist Arturo Alba points to hormonal shifts, stress, and nutritional deficiencies as primary culprits. Follicles produce thinner hairs at a slower rate, gradually reducing brow fullness over the years. And let’s not forget the regrettable era of excessive plucking – the 1990s left a generation with sparse brows that struggled to recover.

But there's recourse. While natural regrowth may slow, there are strategies to enhance brow appearance and promote healthier hair growth.

Careful cleansing is paramount. Makeup residue can weaken follicles, leading to hair loss. “It can weaken the hair follicles, causing hair to fall out,” explains Monica Ceño, founder of The Lab Room, a sought-after brow service for Vogue editors. Thorough makeup removal and targeted brow nourishment are vital. Alba recommends serums containing biotin or peptides, alongside moisturizing oils like castor oil, to mitigate product impact.

Highlighter application offers an instant lift. Ceño details The Lab Room’s signature technique: applying a creamy highlighter just beneath the brow bone to optically elevate and define the brow shape.

Diet plays a supporting role. A diet rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E, plus omega-3s – found in foods such as eggs, chia seeds, and kefir – can contribute to overall hair health, including brow density.

The decline in brow density isn't a foregone conclusion. With mindful care, you can influence the health and appearance of your brows, reclaiming a fuller, more defined look.