Can You Use Eyelash Tint on Eyebrows?
Rockie NgYes, you technically can use eyelash tint on eyebrows, but it's not recommended due to safety concerns and regulatory issues.
The FDA warns that "permanent eyelash tints" should be avoided as they "have been known to cause serious eye injuries, including blindness"
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, "Eyelash and eyebrow tints are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and are illegal in some states."
The only FDA-approved option is silver nitrate for "professional-use only cosmetics to color eyebrows and eyelashes" as of October 2021. Professional beauty experts advise using products specifically formulated for each area to minimize risks of allergic reactions, chemical burns, and vision problems.
What Is Eyebrow and Eyelash Tinting?
Eyebrow and eyelash tinting involves applying semi-permanent dye to darken or enhance the natural color of your brows and lashes. The process uses oxidative dyes mixed with developer solutions to penetrate the hair shaft and provide color that lasts 4-6 weeks.
Professional tinting typically involves:
- Patch testing 24-48 hours before treatment
- Precise application using specialized brushes
- Timing based on desired darkness (5-15 minutes)
- Careful removal with damp cotton pads
Key difference: Eyebrow tint formulas often contain higher levels of harsh chemicals and colorants that can burn the delicate eye area if applied too close to the lash line, making cross-application potentially dangerous.
Can Eyelash Tint Be Used on Eyebrows?
While some beauty professionals claim eyelash tint can be used on eyebrows, this practice carries significant risks:
Safety Concerns
According to Medical News Today and Healthline medical reviews, documented risks include:
- Allergic reactions: Chemical burns, infections, and allergic reactions as confirmed by peer-reviewed studies
- Chemical burns: Common side effects include redness, stinging, burning sensation, watery eyes
- Eye injury: Serious complications can include corneal abrasions and infections
- Severe allergic responses: Symptoms can include redness, itching, swelling, and in severe cases, blisters or difficulty breathing
The primary allergen concern is para-phenylenediamine (PPD), commonly found in hair and brow dyes.
Regulatory Status
According to the Federal Register (October 6, 2021), the FDA has approved silver nitrate as a color additive for "professional-use only cosmetics to color eyebrows and eyelashes."
This represents the first FDA approval for eye area tinting products in many years. However, this approval comes with strict limitations:
- Professional-use only - not available for consumer/DIY use
- Silver nitrate only - other dyes remain unapproved
- Age restriction - not intended for persons under 16 years
- Time limitation - application not to exceed 1 minute
- State variations - some states still prohibit these services
Most commercial tints available to consumers remain FDA-unapproved for eye area use, creating ongoing safety and legal concerns.
Professional vs. DIY Tinting Considerations
Professional Application
Beauty professionals undergo training in:
- Proper patch testing procedures
- Safe application techniques
- Emergency response protocols
- Product knowledge and contraindications
Expert technicians strongly advise against attempting any lash tinting treatments at home, as improper application could lead to complications.
DIY Risks
Home tinting poses additional dangers:
- Lack of professional training
- Inability to properly assess skin sensitivity
- Poor quality control of products
- Limited emergency response capability
Safer Alternatives to Cross-Using Tints
FDA-Approved Products (2021-Present)
The first FDA-compliant products became available in 2022:
- INTENSE BROW[N]S by RefectoCil: First FDA-compliant silver nitrate system
- Professional-grade silver nitrate tints: Up to 4% concentration allowed
- Strict application protocols: 1-minute maximum application time
- Age restrictions: Not for use on persons under 16
Important: These products are professional-use only and not available for consumer purchase.
Temporary Options
For immediate results without permanent risks:
- Tinted brow gels and mascaras
- Eyebrow pencils and powders
- Temporary tattoo pens
- Professional microshading services
Step-by-Step Safety Protocol (Professional Use Only)
WARNING: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed professional.
Pre-Treatment Preparation
- Patch test: Apply small amount behind ear 24-48 hours prior
- Skin assessment: Check for cuts, irritation, or active skin conditions
- Medical history: Review allergies and sensitivities
- Informed consent: Discuss all potential risks
Application Process
- Cleanse area: Remove makeup and oils
- Protect skin: Apply barrier cream around treatment area
- Mix product: Follow manufacturer's exact ratios
- Apply carefully: Use appropriate brushes for each area
- Monitor timing: Strict adherence to development times
- Remove thoroughly: Use recommended neutralizing solutions
Post-Treatment Care
- Avoid water for 24 hours
- Apply soothing aftercare products
- Monitor for adverse reactions
- Schedule follow-up if needed
Understanding Tint Formulations
Ingredient Differences
Eyelash tints typically contain:
- Higher concentrations of oxidative dyes
- Stronger developer solutions
- Thicker consistency for lash coating
Eyebrow tints feature:
- Gentler formulations for skin contact
- Skin-staining properties
- Lower chemical concentrations
Professional tints including ARGAN OIL and KERATIN are considered a cosmetic treatment, with ARGAN OIL hydrating and restoring smoothness to the hair.
Expert Recommendations
Leading dermatologists and beauty professionals consistently advise:
- Use products as intended: Don't cross-apply formulations
- Professional consultation: Seek trained technicians
- Patch testing: Always test before full application
- Quality products: Choose reputable, professional-grade brands
- Regular monitoring: Watch for delayed reactions
Cosmetologists at Eye Candy SF, a well-respected salon in San Francisco, have been tinting lashes and brows for several years, but they use separate, purpose-made products for each service.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Professional Services
- Cost: $30-80 per session
- Duration: 4-6 weeks
- Safety: Trained application, emergency protocols
- Results: Even, predictable outcomes
DIY Products
- Cost: $10-30 per kit
- Duration: Variable results
- Safety: Higher risk without training
- Results: Unpredictable, potential for mistakes
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I use lash serum on my eyebrows?
Eyelash growth serums can be used on eyebrows and may promote hair growth. However, these products contain active ingredients like bimatoprost or peptides that can cause side effects including skin darkening, eye irritation, and changes in iris pigmentation. Always consult a dermatologist before using growth serums on eyebrows, especially if you have sensitive skin or eye conditions.
What are the negatives of eyelash tint?
Primary risks include allergic reactions, chemical burns, temporary or permanent vision damage, and uneven color results. The FDA notes that permanent eyelash tints have caused serious eye injuries, including blindness. Additional concerns include skin staining, premature fading, and potential legal issues in states where tinting is prohibited.
How to apply eyebrow and eyelash tint?
Professional application involves: (1) Patch testing 24-48 hours prior, (2) Cleansing the treatment area, (3) Applying protective barrier around eyes, (4) Mixing tint according to manufacturer instructions, (5) Applying with precision brushes, (6) Monitoring development time carefully, and (7) Removing with appropriate neutralizing solutions. Home application is strongly discouraged due to safety risks.
What dye can I use to dye my eyebrows?
Only FDA-approved silver nitrate products (up to 4% concentration) are legally sanctioned for professional eyebrow coloring. Popular professional brands include RefectoCil, Thuya Professional, and Intensive Lash products. Avoid using hair dyes, eyelash tints, or non-approved colorants. Always choose products specifically formulated for eyebrow use and applied by trained professionals.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Current Legal Status
State regulations vary significantly:
- California: Previously prohibited, now allows FDA-approved silver nitrate products (as of 2023)
- New York: Considering lifting prohibition on silver nitrate tinting (proposed rule 2023)
- Other states: Some maintain complete bans on eye area tinting
The regulatory landscape continues evolving as FDA-approved products become available.
FDA Positioning
The FDA maintains that most commercial tinting products are not approved for eye area use, creating a regulatory gray area for beauty professionals and consumers.
Final Safety Recommendations
Can you use eyelash tint on eyebrows? While technically possible, the risks far outweigh any convenience benefits. Professional beauty experts, dermatologists, and regulatory agencies consistently recommend using products specifically formulated for their intended purpose.
Key takeaways:
- FDA-approved products are limited to professional silver nitrate formulations
- Cross-using tints increases risk of allergic reactions and chemical burns
- Professional application is always safer than DIY approaches
- Purpose-made eyebrow products provide better, safer results
- Legal restrictions vary by state and continue evolving
For optimal safety and results, consult a licensed cosmetologist or dermatologist who can assess your individual needs and recommend appropriate products and procedures. Your vision and eye health are too valuable to risk with improper tinting practices. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified professionals before undergoing any cosmetic treatments involving the eye area. The safety information provided is based on current FDA guidelines and professional beauty industry standards.
Sources:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021, October 6). "Listing of Color Additives Exempt From Certification; Silver Nitrate." Federal Register. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/10/06/2021-21755/listing-of-color-additives-exempt-from-certification-silver-nitrate
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. "Eye Cosmetic Safety." https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/eye-cosmetic-safety
- American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2024, September 20). "Know the Risks of Eyebrow and Eyelash Enhancement." https://www.aao.org/eye-health/news/eyebrow-eyelash-coloring-could-harm-your-vision
- Medical News Today. (2025, May 28). "Eyebrow tinting: Procedure, benefits, and risks." https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-is-eyebrow-tinting
Healthline. (2025, May 15). "Eyebrow Tinting: Benefits and Risks." https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-eyebrow-tinting