cesar-la-rosa-aFZ3HmHo-Z0-unsplash

While the ongoing [COVID-19 pandemic](https://aedit.com/aedition/moderna-covid-19-vaccine-dermal-filler-swelling) has led many of us to take a more [DIY approach](https://aedit.com/aedition/false-eyelashes-mascara-for-thicker-fuller-lashes) to our beauty and skincare routines, I’ve always preferred to do my [eyebrows](https://aedit.com/aedition/category/eyebrows) myself. Maybe it’s due to the fact that I’m filled with immense joy when I perfect my arch, or maybe it’s due to the time I went to a waxer and ended up with swollen brows. Either way, it’s become second nature for me to shape and fill in my brows from the comfort of my own home.

It has, however, taken some trial and error to develop my routine — and I’ve picked up some pointers along the way. And, because you can never have too many brow-shaping tips, I also reached out to some industry insiders for their own tricks and recommendations. The result? This definitive guide to shaping, defining, and crafting your brows from home. Here’s what you need to know. 

## **The Tools of the Trade**
While everyone has their personal favorite(s) when it comes to brow products, there are some styling and shaping tools that are considered staples for any kit:

- **Facial Razor**: My tool of choice, a [facial razor](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fsephora-collection-4-piece-facial-razor-set-P465808%3FskuId%3D2373470%26icid2%3Dproducts%2520grid%3Ap465808%3Aproduct) can help you shape your brows prior to filling them. 
- **Scissors**: Similar to a facial razor, a small pair of scissors (like [these from Tweeszerman](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fbrow-shaping-scissors-brush%3FproductId%3DxlsImpprod560322)) can be used to trim your eyebrows before applying any product.
- **Tweezers**: A classic tool, [tweezers](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fbasics-chrome-tweezer%3FproductId%3Dpimprod2014034) give you more control when plucking — and they’re particularly great for shaping the tail.
- **Spoolie**: Your brows need to be brushed too, and [spoolies](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fbrow-shaping-scissors-brush%3FproductId%3DxlsImpprod560322) can be used before *and* after applying product to lay your brow hair and distribute color.

To set yourself up for success, you might want to consider investing in this quartet before trying your hand at brow shaping.

## **How to Shape Your Brows At Home**
Now that you have the right tools, it’s time to break down the process of shaping and defining. Below is an expert-approved, four-step plan for pro-level brows:

### **1. Find Your Light**
The first step for doing your brows at home? Find good lighting. “Great lighting is key, as it will ensure maximum visibility,” explains celebrity makeup artist [Melissa Hernandez](https://www.instagram.com/melissa.hernandez/?hl=en). “Make sure to position yourself somewhere with bright, natural lighting.” Once you’ve found the perfect spot, she suggests beginning the shaping process by brushing your brow hair in an upward direction and trimming straight across along the top line of your brow. “Focusing on hairs that are growing past your desired shape,” she says. From there, she recommends tweezing any stray bits in the direction of hair growth “because it will help prevent inflammation and potential scarring.”

### **2. Pick Your Product**
Next, you’ll want to pick the right product to define and fill-in your brows. Celebrity makeup artist [Sandy Linter](https://www.instagram.com/sandylinter/?hl=en) says that she looks at brow texture to determine which product to use. Her tips:

- Use a **brow gel** if your brows are unruly
- Try a **brow pomade** for lifeless arches
- **Brow powders** are great for adding color
- Get more definition with a **brow pencil**

If volume is your concern, fiber-based products can help create the illusion of fullness. “Brow fiber gels are buildable, so you can create everything from a natural to a fuller look,” says Kenna Murray, a national trainer for [Amazing Lash Studio](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazinglashstudio.com%2F). “They are also great to use for securing your brows into place.” You can also mix and match products to create the perfect brow look. I personally tend to use a pencil to define the lower part of my brow and the tail, and then I switch to a pomade to fill it all in.

### **3. Add Arch Emphasis**
Now that you have your product(s) in hand, you’ll want to define your brows — including those tricky arches. “The trick to defining your brows and enhancing your overall eye look is to measure from the outer edge of your nostril up to the highest point of your eyebrow at an angle,” Murray explains. “Mark that point with a pencil — it’s where your arch is.” While your brows naturally have their own arch, you can manipulate the shape. “You can customize your arch based on how much you pluck underneath the peak of the arch,” she says. But tread carefully when removing hairs. “Tweezing one to two brow hairs at a time is the best way to achieve the desired arch, instead of creating too thin of an arch,” Murray notes. This is an especially useful tip for those who have been working on growing fuller brows. As for the tail, many people fail to go far enough with their product. The end of your brow should line up with the outer edge of your nose.

### **4. Touch Them Up**
Now that you’ve shaped and defined your brows, use concealer to clean up any mistakes. If you’re going for a natural look, use a concealer that’s one shade lighter than your skin tone. If you fancy an Instagram guru-level look, I recommend using one that’s two shades lighter. The contrast creates a really defined silhouette. Underneath your brow, line the full length with concealer. For the top of the brow, concentrate the coverup on just the outer half, then blend.

## **Insider Tips for At-Home Brow Shaping**
At this point, I hope you’re feeling more confident and ready to take on at-home brow shaping. If you have any lingering reservations, our pros offer these tips:

1. **Avoid Magnifying Mirrors**:  The number one mistake brow newbies make when shaping their arches at home? Overplucking. “Magnifying mirrors often emphasize brow hairs that should be left alone,” Hernandez says. Instead, opt for a regular mirror and remember less is more. 
2. **Try a Stencil**: If you find that you’re having trouble developing the shape you want, eyebrow stencils are a quick and easy alternative. Our pick? The [Anastasia Beverly Hills Classic Stencils](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com%2Fproduct%2Fclassic-stencils-P69600) five-piece set. 
3. **Start with Scissors**: “Sometimes after a slight trim, the brows don’t need as much tweezing,” Linter shares. “Press your finger on your brow and trim off the tips.” As with tweezing, be conservative. “Don’t go too short because then your brow hairs will not lay flat,” she cautions.

## **The Takeaway**
While doing your brows at home may seem daunting, start with sourcing your tools (i.e. a facial razor, scissors, tweezers, and/or spoolie) and deciding what styling product(s) are best for you. Once your kit is assembled, you’ll be able to map out your desired shape. When in doubt, remember less is always more and stencils and concealer will be handy extras on your journey to brow domination.

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

AEDITION for men-min

Expert Opinion Collection | The AEDITION

Expert Opinion

Doing your eyebrows from home is a lot easier than you think — take it from me.

How To Shape, Tweeze, Fill-In, And Style Eyebrows At Home

How To Shape Your Eyebrows At Home

shutterstock 1637496319

Nowadays, in-person doctors’ appointments have more considerations than ever. With abundant [telehealth offerings](https://aedit.com/aedition/virtual-consultations-telemedicine-plastic-surgery-dermatology-cosmetic-dentistry) and stay-at-home orders encouraging patients to remain inside, it’s easy to access healthcare from the couch. But when patients *do* decide to opt for an [in-office appointment](https://aedit.com/aedition/plastic-surgery-dermatology-cosmetic-dentistry-practices-reopening-during-covid-19), it’s a good idea to make every moment with your provider count. “No one has time to go to their plastic surgeon [or dermatologist] multiple times,” says [Roxanne Grawe, MD](https://www.roxyplasticsurgery.com/about/meet-dr-grawe/), a board certified plastic surgeon in Powell, OH. “With kid’s activities, work, and running errands, it is impossible to make multiple visits — and that was before coronavirus pandemic precautions.” 

To help you make the most of your time in the office, we asked the experts how to safely stack skin, face, and body treatments for maximum results in minimum time. In addition to saving you another trip to the office, opting for multiple treatments at once also concentrates downtime. Here are some of the most popular combos of the moment.

### **1. Skincare Treatment + Botox + Filler**
The “burger, fries, and a shake” of cosmetic treatments, this combination is one of the most common — and one you may have already tried. “Many patients stack their skincare treatments with [Botox®](https://aedit.com/aedition/comparing-neurotoxin-botulinum-type-a-injections-botox-dysport-jeuveau-xeomin) and [fillers](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-dermal-fillers),” Dr. Grawe explains. Her Ohio office schedules patients with an aesthetician first for treatments such as [Hydrafacial®](https://aedit.com/procedure/hydrafacial) or [dermaplaning](https://aedit.com/procedure/dermaplaning), then sends them to a doctor’s procedure room for injectables like Botox® that tackle upper facial wrinkles. “Then, if they decide to get their lips plumped, we can do that too,” she says. “We have seen an increase in these types of facial balancing treatments during the pandemic, since you can don your mask during your [swelling or bruising](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-prevent-bruising-after-lasers-filler-botox) phase.”

### **2. Liquid Facelift**
In Dr. Grawe’s office, she often combines a variety of injectable neurotoxins and fillers for a non-surgical facial makeover known as the [liquid facelift](https://aedit.com/procedure/liquid-facelift). Aimed at creating better [facial balance](https://aedit.com/aedition/plastic-surgery-results-are-about-proportion-not-perfection), the patient and doctor will sit together in front of a mirror as the patient describes their concerns. “It may be that the lower eyelids appear hollow and they want to look well rested, or that they don’t like their forehead wrinkles,” Dr. Grawe says. “We look at the entire picture — how the nose fits with the chin, how the cheek bones project, or if their upper lip and bottom lip are balanced — then the treatment plan takes shape.” Depending on the patient’s desired results, each combination of neuromodulator and filler will be different, but the goal is typically to create a more youthful and refreshed look, without looking “fake” or overfilled. 

### **3. Chemical Peels + Ultherapy**
“Now, patients will bundle additional treatments into their routine Botox® and filler appointments,” says [Lesley Rabach, MD](https://lmmedicalnyc.com/), a double board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon in New York City. Before the injections, Dr. Rabach’s patients often stack [chemical peels](https://aedit.com/procedure/superficial-chemical-peels) or [Ultherapy®](https://aedit.com/procedure/ultrasound-skin-tighteningultherapy) in one appointment, instead of coming back for these toning and tightening services later. With all these treatments at once, a patient can leave the office with skin that’s deeply exfoliated, plumped, and tightened. 

### **4. Laser Skin Treatment + Laser Hair Removal + Kybella**
Once the numbing cream is on, might as well make the most of it, right? Dr. Grawe’s patients often opt for laser skin treatments and [laser hair removal](https://aedit.com/procedure/laser-hair-removal) in one fell swoop. “We can do BroadBand Light treatments for brown spots, which are very popular during these wintery months when our tans have faded, then do laser hair removal with the same laser,” she says. On top of the laser work, patients can also add on facial fillers or [Kybella®](https://aedit.com/procedure/kybella) injections to melt excess fat around the chin, neck, and jaw.

### **5. EmSculpt + EmTone**
“For patients seeking body contouring, a common combination therapy we use in our office is EmSculpt and EmTone™,” says [Dendy Engelman, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/dendy-engelman-md-312), a board certified dermatologist in NYC. [EmSculpt](https://aedit.com/aedition/why-everyone-is-talking-about-emsculpt), she explains, is a non-invasive toning and strengthening treatment that uses electromagnetic energy to stimulate the muscles, causing 20,000 muscle contractions in 30 minutes — far more than possible in a typical exercise routine. That’s easy to combine with EmTone™, which uses targeted thermal and mechanical energy to smooth [cellulite](https://aedit.com/aedition/qwo-cellulite-injectable-treatment-fda-approved). “Combining these therapies maximizes the results in the areas treated by addressing the underlying muscles with EmSculpt and the overlying tissue with EmTone™,” she says. Since both tackle the body, it’s also easy to stack them on top of any facial treatments, making for a head-to-toe appointment. 

### **6. PRP + Microneedling**
“There are treatments that I combine for patients because they will actually see better results with the combination,” Dr. Engelman notes. One such combo is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and microneedling. [PRP treatments](https://aedit.com/aedition/prp-and-stem-cells-are-changing-the-face-of-the-cosmetics-industry) utilize plasma from your own blood, spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets, and then injected back into the treatment area (which can include face and [scalp](https://aedit.com/aedition/kourtney-kardashian-prp-injections-to-treat-hair-loss)) to trigger the body’s natural healing process and boost collagen production. [Microneedling](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-professional-microneedling-at-home-dermarolling), meanwhile, uses a device made up of fine needles to create micro-wounds in the skin, which also stimulates collagen growth and can improve the appearance of scars and wrinkles. [PRP and microneedling](https://aedit.com/procedure/microneedling-with-prp) work well together, she says, because “the micro-injuries to the skin from microneedling heal will more quickly thanks to the growth factors in our own PRP.”

### **7. Eye & Lip Surgery + Jawline Contouring**
“There has been a surge of patients who are opting for more than one surgical procedure at once, so as to have the same surgical downtime and healing process,” Dr. Rabach shares. She routinely performs [blepharoplasty](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-its-really-like-to-get-eyelid-surgery-blepharoplasty) on the upper *and* lower lids to address drooping eyelids. “Many patients who once would opt for either upper or lower blepharoplasties are now having both done at the same time,” she says. She’s also had patients combine eyelid surgery with [lip lifts](https://aedit.com/aedition/lip-lift-procedure-instead-of-lip-filler) and [jawline contouring](https://aedit.com/aedition/8-ways-to-get-a-more-defined-jawline), all of which require [local anesthesia](https://aedit.com/aedition/everything-you-need-to-know-about-anesthesia). 

## **The Takeaway**
As you can see, some of these combinations work together for one desired result, others tackle different areas of the body, and some put numbing cream to good use. While our experts have seen high levels of patient satisfaction with the pairings above, think of your appointment as a chance to choose your own adventure. Talk to your own doctor about how to stack and combine treatments to best serve your aesthetic goals and needs.

AEDITION rejuvenators-min

Medical Aesthetics Collection | The AEDITION

Aesthetics

To help you make the most of your time with your aesthetic provider, we asked the experts how to safely stack skin, face, and body treatments for maximum results in minimum time.

The Best Aesthetic Procedures To Combine During COVID-19 Pandemic

7 Ways To Maximize Your In-Office Treatment Appointment Right Now

nathana-reboucas-9EJVIo6XTB8-unsplash

Hand sanitizer has always been a convenient substitute for [traditional hand washing](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-wash-hands-best-creams-tips-to-prevent-dry-skin) in a pinch. But since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s become an essential (like [face coverings](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-prevent-acne-caused-by-covid-19-masks-face-coverings)) that many people don’t leave their homes without. Because of hand sanitizer, we feel more comfortable doing everyday tasks like filling our gas tanks or grabbing takeout. Anyone who has applied the stuff consistently throughout the day, however, knows that it can have [drying and irritating effects](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-prevent-dry-skin-face-body-hands) on the skin. 

So, what is the best way to use hand sanitizer safely and effectively without wreaking havoc on your [hands](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-you-need-to-know-about-hand-rejuvenation), [nails](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-damaged-dry-brittle-finger-nails-cuticles), and skin? We’ve tapped two top experts for advice.

## **Hand Washing vs. Hand Sanitizer** 
First things first: it’s important to understand the difference between washing your hands and sanitizing them. Using antibacterial hand sanitizer was inevitable in 2020. And it’s here to stay for at least part of 2021, too. But that’s not to say hand sanitizer can replace hand washing. 

If you have access to soap and water, then you absolutely should wash your hands the old fashioned way. “It's always better to wash with soap and water and to apply a moisturizer immediately after,” says [Amy Spizuoco, DO](https://aedit.com/provider/amy-spizuoco-19341), a board certified dermatologist in New York City. As helpful as hand sanitizer can be in eliminating germs, it can’t remove grime in the same way washing can.

There are certainly situations, however, in which hand sanitizer is the only option. “If you don't have quick access to soap and water, be sure to use hand sanitizer after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing, before eating food, after using the bathroom, and before touching your face at all,” advises [Dendy Engelman, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/dendy-engelman-md-312), a New York City-based board certified dermatologist. 

With this background in mind, read on for hand sanitizer tips from two dermatologists:

### **Tip 1: Moderation Is Key** 
Hand sanitizer is in most of our purses, backpacks, and cars... *for good reason*. As we live our ‘new normal,’ we often find ourselves in situations with dirty hands and without access to soap and running water. Fortunately, we have hand sanitizer to kill germs and move on with our day with peace of mind. In most instances, using an antimicrobial hand sanitizer is totally okay and recommended. Occasional use of hand sanitizers is harmless, but obsessive or frequent use can damage the skin. 

One of the sensitizing culprits is alcohol, which can cause dryness and skin irritation. “The types of alcohol found in hand sanitizers — ethyl alcohol (ethanol) or isopropyl alcohol — can be harsh and irritating for the skin,” Dr. Engelman explains. “But that's unfortunately the trade off for killing germs!”

The three main active ingredients in hand sanitizers (ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, and benzalkonium chloride) are under [safety review](https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-issues-final-rule-safety-and-effectiveness-consumer-hand-sanitizers) by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) but are generally recognized as safe and effective. The FDA [banned the ingredient triclosan](https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/5-things-know-about-triclosan) from hand sanitizers in 2017 due to potential health risks (some as serious as skin cancer and antibiotic resistance).

While there are some side effects of using hand sanitizer, there is one myth our dermatologists are here to bust. Despite what is commonly believed, sanitizer does not make skin more sensitive to UV light and susceptible to sun damage. “Some think it’s because the alcohol in hand sanitizers dry out and thin the skin, but this doesn't actually make your skin more sensitive to UV,” Dr. Spizuoco says. Even so, sun protection should already be a part of your [hand care routine](https://aedit.com/aedition/aesthetic-treatments-for-aging-hands). “It is always a good idea to use a moisturizer with sunscreen every day on hands that are exposed to the sun,” she adds.

### **Tip 2: Use a Dermatologist-Approved Hand Sanitizer**
Not all hand sanitizer is created equal. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [recommends](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/hand-sanitizer.html) alcohol contents of at least 60 percent ethyl alcohol (ethanol) or 70 percent isopropyl alcohol for hand sanitizers. But that’s not to say the formula can’t also include some skin-soothing extras. 

To combat the harsh alcohols, Dr. Engelman recommends choosing a formula that also contains nourishing ingredients. “There are gentler hand sanitizers that are formulated with hydrating ingredients, like aloe vera, so they are less harsh on your skin — especially as we're all using them more these days,” she says. Below are two of her go-to hand sanitizer brands: 

- **[CBD for Life](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcbdforlife.us%2Fhand-sanitizers%2F)**: “I love CBD for Life products, so I was excited when they came out with hemp seed extract-infused hand sanitizers,” she says. “They come in [gel](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcbdforlife.us%2Fproducts%2Fhand-sanitizing-gel-1) and [spray](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcbdforlife.us%2Fproducts%2Fhand-sanitizing-spray) in different sizes, so you can pick what is most convenient for you.” The formulas contain 70 percent ethanol alcohol, in addition to hemp seed extract and aloe leaf juice. 
- **[Touchland](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ulta.com%2Fbrand%2Ftouchland)**: “These hand sanitizers are not only cute, but they come in eight different fragrances, so you don't have to worry about the overpowering alcohol smell,” Dr. Engelman shares. They contain 67 percent ethyl alcohol, plus aloe vera and essential oils, to keep skin sanitized and moisturized without a sticky film. 

While some hand sanitizers might be better at combatting dry skin, all sanitizers have the same goal: Kill harmful bacteria. Dr. Engelman says it’s important to check the alcohol concentration on your bottle to ensure it meets the CDC minimums. 

### **Tip 3: Don’t Forget to Moisturize**
Whether you’re washing your hands or applying hand sanitizer, keeping your skin hydrated is essential (check out our [guide to dermatologist-approved hand creams](https://aedit.com/aedition/dermatologist-approved-hand-creams-for-dry-skin)). “I recommend having moisturizer right next to hand soap at the sink and keeping a travel-size moisturizer with you at all times,” Dr. Spizuoco shares. 

And remember: there is no such thing as too much moisturizing. “Moisturize as many times as you wash your hands a day — or more,” she says. This is especially true for frequent hand sanitizer users. “There's really nothing you can avoid in hand sanitizers,” she explains. “What makes them work is the alcohol, and that is always the culprit that dries out the hands.”

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

What’s the best way to use hand sanitizer safely and effectively without wreaking havoc on your hands, nails, and skin? We asked the experts.

Dermatologist-Approved Hand Sanitizers For Dry Skin

3 Dermatologist Tips For Using Hand Sanitizer On Dry Skin

Used in regenerative medicine that can be combined with PRP to treat hair loss and encourage hair growth and thickening.

Thinning Hair

Receding Hairline

Bald Spots

PRP has been used for hairless treatment and can also be combined with Acellular matrix to encourage better and longer lasting results. Acell is a porcine derived powder that has regenerative properties similar to stem cells. When combined with PRP concentrate, the serum can then be injected into the scalp to encourage hair growth. The PRP and Acell matrix helps to heal damaged hair follicles which in turn allows for more, and thicker hair growth. 

Before injection, a small amount of blood will be drawn from the patient’s arm. The blood will be placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelet rich plasma, or PRP. The PRP will then be mixed with the powder Acell product. The serum can then be injected into parts of the scalp that are experiencing hair thinning.

ACell and PRP Injections for Hair Loss

Gain back your hair through hair restoration treatments and restore a full head of hair.

Hair Restoration

For many men and women beginning to lose their hair, or have lost it completely, going bald can often be traumatic. If you’re suffering from hair loss, you know firsthand how embarrassing and stressful it can be. Fortunately, there are treatments that can work to effectively stimulate new hair growth in balding areas and eventually restore a full head of hair. These treatments come in a variety of applications with many different benefits tailored to work properly with your specific hair loss.

Hair

Head

ACell matrix, a porcine derived powder that is used in regenerative medicine, can be combined with PRP for hair loss treatment. This therapy helps to repair damaged hair follicles on the scalp and encourages hair growth and thickening.

ACell and PRP Injections for Hair Loss

The Skinny

About the Procedure

Concerns

Recovery Notes

Ideal Candidate

Not Recommended For

Side Effects

Pros

Cons

From the AEDITION

ACell and PRP Injections for Hair Loss

The Skinny

About the Procedure

Concerns

Recovery Notes

Ideal Candidate

Not Recommended For

Side Effects

Pros

Cons

Related Procedures

From the AEDITION