Your eyebrows are one of the most powerful features on your face — shaping them the wrong way can subtly add years without you even realizing it. As we age, the rules for achieving flattering, youthful brows change. What worked in your 20s might not be doing you any favors today. The good news? Small changes can make a big impact.
Below, we’re breaking down the brow mistakes that are making you look older — and how to fix them for a fresher, more lifted look.
The 4 Brow Mistakes That Are Making You Look Older
1. Super-Thin Over-Plucked Brows
Thinning brows have a significant impact on facial symmetry and the framing of the eyes, key elements in facial aesthetics. Over-plucking, a common cause of brow thinning for older women, can result in a less youthful and more mature appearance as eyebrows naturally frame and define the eyes. To address this issue, individuals can explore various solutions, including brow growth serums and nutrient-rich substances like castor oil. Brow growth serums often contain peptides and other active ingredients that stimulate hair follicles on aging skin, promoting the regrowth of brow hair. Similarly, castor oil, known for its nourishing properties, can aid in regrowing and thickening sparse eyebrows. These remedies offer a non-invasive and accessible way to enhance brow fullness and restore a more youthful facial appearance.
2. Brows Too Far Apart or Too Close Together
Believe it or not, your nose is a key guide for achieving precise and picture-perfect eyebrows. To ensure balanced facial symmetry, follow this rule of thumb: your brows should begin directly above the crease of your nostrils on each side. When eyebrows are too far apart or too close together, it can impact the appearance of aging eyes. Brows that start at the correct position create a harmonious look, preventing the eyes from appearing excessively wide or close-set.
Remember, eyebrow placement is not just a matter of aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in framing your eyes and enhancing your facial features to help appear younger. By aligning your brows with the natural landmarks of your nose, you can achieve a flattering and well-balanced look.
3. Not Enough Contrast
Did you know not having enough contrast between your brow color and skin tone can contribute to an aging appearance. According to a study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, dark brows were found to make a person look younger, emphasizing the importance of finding the right balance between your brow color and overall appearance.
When choosing your brow color, consider factors such as your hair color, skin tone, and overall contrast. By ensuring a harmonious blend that complements your features, you can create a more youthful and defined look. Just promise us that you will ease up on the intensity of color in the front of your brows!
4. Brows Not Following Your Brow Bone
When shaping your eyebrows, it's crucial to pay attention to the natural structure of your face. One effective tip is to run your finger under your brow bone. If your current brow shape does not align with this contour, it might be time to reconsider your brow shape. The brow bone serves as a guide for a more harmonious and flattering appearance. Considering this natural structure ensures that your eyebrows complement your facial features and enhance your overall look.
How to Tell If Your Brows Are Aging You
Not sure if you're making brow mistakes that are making you look older? This quick self-check can help you spot the signs. Grab a mirror (or your latest selfie) and ask yourself the following:
Do your brows disappear in photos or from a distance?
If your brows blend into your skin tone or lack definition, it could be aging you without you realizing it.Are your brows shorter than your eye width?
Brows that are too short—especially at the tail—can make your eyes look droopy or tired.Is the front of your brow overly squared or too round?
Harsh blocky fronts or unnatural rounded shapes can throw off your face’s natural structure and draw attention in the wrong way.Do your brows fade into your skin tone?
A lack of contrast between your brow hair and your skin can wash you out. Studies show higher contrast is associated with a more youthful appearance.
If you answered "yes" to even one of these, you might be unintentionally aging your face with your brow routine. But don’t worry—most of these mistakes are easy to fix with the right shape, shade, and styling technique.
