The Tamesis
If the eyes are the windows to the soul, then eyebrows are the curtains that define your entire being. Hyperbolic, of course. But brow shape is one of the most important features to consider—even the slightest arch can have a huge impact on how we balance our features and provide facial structure. Therefore, deciding which one is best for you requires extra thought and caution.
If you don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered. Consider this your brow shape 101 lesson, straight from the pros.
- Eyebrow shape balances our features and provides facial structure.
- Your face shape, hairline, hairstyle, makeup habits, and lifestyle all play a role in determining the eyebrow shape that’s best for you.
How to find your perfect brows
There are a lot of factors to consider when looking for the perfect brows, but it really depends on your facial structure and natural hair. Whether your face is round, oval, square or heart-shaped, assessing your face shape can help determine which brow arch will best balance your features, says celebrity brow artist and Chanel ambassador Jimena Garcia. She adds that factors like the natural fullness of your brows, how your hair grows and your aesthetic goals can also determine which shape is most flattering.
Kristie Streicher, celebrity brow artist and founder of KS&CO, says she likes to look at bone structure (“the brow bone is the natural blueprint for how your brows should grow”), natural growth patterns and hair density before shaping and grooming them. “I look at where hair grows naturally, where brows are sparse, and where I can make small adjustments to open and lift the eye area,” says Streicher. “Brows should follow bone structure and natural growth patterns, not trends.”
“You want to create symmetry and balance in the eye area, as well as a sense of harmony with your overall face shape,” adds celebrity makeup artist Daniel Martin.
What is eyebrow mapping?
Another way to determine the best brow shape is through brow mapping. According to Martin, brow mapping is a three-point technique that uses your facial structure to show you where your brows begin, peak and end. Garcia adds that brow mapping is based entirely on the proportions of the nose, eyes and overall face. By measuring these key points, you’ll be able to find the most flattering brow shape. “You create a blueprint to ensure the brow shape enhances your natural symmetry,” she says. “Essentially, it takes the guesswork out and helps you create brows that specifically fit your face shape.”
