The Brow Lamination Process
Von Freudenberg says that the first step is cleansing brows to remove any makeup. Next, a lifting solution is applied. This can be left on between six to ten minutes, depending on the hair texture of eyebrows. The solution will enable the brow technician to sculpt brows into the desired shape. Then a second solution will be applied for approximately the same amount of time. This "fixing" solution sets hairs in place. Von Freudenberg likens the steps to a perm for brows.
After that, an eyebrow tint can be added, if needed. And the brow artist can trim any long hairs that affect the brow shape. The final step of brow lamination is the application of a superhydrating solution. This moisturizes and seals hairs. It's the step that really gives the treatment its name. The solution restores the health of eyebrows and gives them a very shiny finish, according to Wallace.
Von Freudenberg says that the process can last between 20 to 45 minutes. It gets up to 45 minutes if the brow artist does a tint and shaping, according to Wallace.
Image via @browjam
Post-Brow Lamination Procedures
No Water: Anyone who has had their eyebrows microbladed will be aware that there are some specific aftercare steps, including no water. Brow lamination is similar. There should be absolutely no water on brows for 24 to 48 hours after treatment. The goal is to keep the moisture the artist put on brows in place for as long as possible to allow brows to properly set. "We tell clients no saunas, hot baths, steamy showers or splashing your face with water for two days," says Von Freudenberg. Wallace seconds this. The experts also recommend avoiding makeup for 24 hours, because you can't wash it off.
Brushing Brows: What you can do is brush newly laminated brows. In fact, Von Freudenberg gives clients a brow spoolie brush and instructs them to brush brows in the morning and before going to bed. She also suggests readjusting brows with the brush if they have been rubbed or moved. If eyebrows are left out of place, they could potentially set in the wrong position. #Awkward
Beware of High pH: As with the prep steps, Wallace suggests avoiding any skin care products with high pH levels.
Image via @pmubymarie
Potential Dangers
The process involves chemicals on your skin and hair, so problems can occur, according to Wallace. If proper practices aren't followed, the process could lead to chemical burns. Overprocessed hair can become brittle and even fall out. This is why it's important to go to a licensed professional and always get a patch test to avoid allergic reactions.
Image via @mollyrobertsonlashartist
Brow Lamination Maintenance
Appointments: Brow lamination can last for six to ten weeks depending on the hair cycle, per Wallace. It's actually OK to get a regular eyebrow wax or brow tint during those weeks to maintain the look of the eyebrow lamination. Keep in mind budgeting for brow lamination. Price varies by area, length of service (20 to 40 minutes) and quality. Von Freudenberg says that the price can go from $40 to $200 because it's so new and it may be hard to find a certified technician in your area.
At-Home: Continue with the habit of ensuring eyebrows are in the correct spot. "The [brow lamination] technique does not 'glue' hairs into place," says Von Freudenberg. "Hairs still move and you can still move brows around after two days [following the appointment]."
Some lamination products recommend using an oil, such as castor oil or coconut oil, every night to keep eyebrows healthy and moisturized.
Image via @gemmaleanne_lashandbrowartist
