Why You Need to Stop Doing the "Instagram Brow" — and What to Do Instead

Updated on 2/19/2017 at 11:35 AM

You know those super drawn-on brows that are all over Instagram? Well, there's a time and a place for them (like on Insta!), but that ultra-defined, no-coloring-outside-the-lines look tends to read kinda harsh in the real world. In fact, they can be downright distracting! That's why makeup artists backstage at New York Fashion Week Fall 2017 have been opting for brows that are soft, feminine, and natural.

"When nature gives you something, I think you should embrace it," said Tom Pecheux, makeup artist for MAC, backstage at the Oscar de la Renta show. "It's like when people order a dish and, even before trying it, they add some salt. Try the food first and see if you need to change it. It's the same thing with the eyebrow. You don't have to change your brows and do what everyone else is doing. See what fits you the best."

In other words: don't try to draw on the same eyebrow that everyone else is wearing. Instead, embrace your natural shape, groom it, and keep it gently defined. To help you get that coveted defined but natural brow at home, we asked NYFW makeup artists for their best tips and tricks. Keep reading!

Nurture Your Brows

“Everyday maintenance” is key for keeping your brows healthy and beautiful, Tom Pecheux said. You can begin with nourishing your body by eating healthy foods and taking necessary supplements. Biotin is a popular hair-growth supplement, but it can also help strengthen your hair so it looks youthful and healthy. Also avoid bleaching your brows or applying harsh products, and don’t over wax or over pluck.

Use an Angled, Definition Brush

Cassandra Garcia, the lead makeup artist for Bobbi Brown at Tibi and Jenny Packham, recommends using a soft powder in a color to gently fill in the brows. The key to keeping it natural, she noted, is to use a defining brush, such as the Bobbi Brown Duel-Ended Definition Brush.

Fill in From the Bottom

Garcia also says to fill in your brows from the bottom, as opposed to outlining at the top. The latter can make for an unnaturally stiff, over-defined, "drawn-on" brow look.

Comb Upward

After filling in, Garcia recommends combing your brows upward. “That way, the front hairs are brushed up and the rest are tapered and natural,” she said.

Don’t Go Too Dark

If you’ve got ultra-pale brows and want to create more definition, try not to go overboard. For a more natural look, only go a shade (maybe two) darker than your natural brow, Garcia explained.

Set Your Brows with Hairspray

After filling in and combing, make sure to set your brows so they stay put all day long. Dick Page, who was the lead makeup artist for Shiseido at Zadig & Voltaire, recommends a touch of hairspray. He says this gives the brow “a bit of strength” and also creates a natural-looking sheen.