We’re all darn beautiful with mascara or without, but there’s something about a slick of the lash stuff, or a quick brow tidy up that works wonders for the face. That’s why tinting was in our top ten most-booked treatments recently. But before you head for your transformation (because, let’s face it, the results are that good), there are a few things to know – five, to be exact.
By Rachel Spedding
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1 Get a patch test
This one’s a biggie. Without a patch test, your therapist won’t be able to carry out the procedure. Why? Because the skin surrounding your brows and lashes may react (if you’re allergic). Head to the salon 48 hours before for your appointment, and your therapist will test the dye on a small (barely visible) patch on your skin. Easy.
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2 Go makeup (and mascara) free
Head to your appointment with clean brows and lashes, to save a little time with makeup removal and ensure your tint is longer-lasting. Make sure there’s no oily residue lingering from tanning oils, facials or skin products – that’ll make sure your tint can be absorbed properly.
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3 Take out your contacts
If you’re a contact lens wearer, take them out pre-salon. It’s best to leave these out for a few hours post-treatment too, to avoid interfering with your eyes. You’ll have to keep your eyes closed throughout the process (for both brows and lashes), so hunt out your glasses, because you’ll need to go lens-free.
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4 Know what you're after
Your therapist will offer the best advice on what shade of tint to go for, that will best suit your hair and skin tone, but it’s always a good idea to do a little research in advance. A darker hue can create fullness, while golden shades can make the eyes appear somewhat-brighter. Accentuating is always the end goal.
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5 Do your research
There are at-home tint kits available by the bucketload, but when it comes to the hair and skin near your eyes, you should always head to a pro. No matter how skilled you may be with liquid liner (respect to you if you’re a daily flicked-liner-wearer), tinting is a whole different ball game. Read reviews on the salons near you, and choose a venue that’ll ensure your eyes look tip-top.
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area.
FAQs
Do you need a patch test before eyebrow or eyelash tinting?
Yes, you must have a patch test before your tinting appointment. You should visit the salon at least 48 hours before to check for any allergic skin reactions, as your therapist cannot carry out the treatment without this precaution.
Should you arrive makeup-free for an eyebrow or eyelash tint?
Yes, go to your appointment with clean brows and lashes, free of any makeup. This helps the tint last longer and ensures there is no oily residue from skin products, which can affect how well the tint is absorbed.
Can you wear contact lenses during a brow or lash tinting treatment?
No, you should take your contact lenses out before your tinting appointment. It’s best to keep them out for a few hours after the treatment to avoid disturbing your eyes, and you’ll need to keep your eyes closed throughout the process.
How do you choose the best salon for a tinting treatment?
Read reviews and select a professional salon, especially for treatments near your eyes. There are many at-home kits available, but choosing an experienced venue is the safest way to get great results without risking your skin or eyes.
What shade of tint should you choose for brows or lashes?
Your therapist can suggest the best shade to match your hair and skin tone. A darker tint creates fullness, while golden tones make eyes appear brighter—so think about your preferred look and discuss options during your appointment.