Expert Shares Tips For Shaping Your Eyebrows After 40

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Despite being an overlooked body part, eyebrows naturally change over time, just like the rest of our features. As we get older, declining hormone levels can cause the hairs to become thinner, leading to a sparse appearance. Because of this, at 40, the brow techniques that once worked in your 20s or 30s may not be as effective anymore.

Gregory Dylan, esthetician and beauty expert at Gregory Dylan Skincare, says that because brows frame the entire face, even small changes in shape can dramatically impact one's overall appearance. "The right eyebrow shape can soften your features and give your face a lifted and refreshed appearance," he exclusively tells Women. "Meanwhile, brows that are overly harsh, overly arched, or too thin can emphasize heaviness or make the face look tired and old-fashioned."

In the same way that applying eyeliner to older eyes requires some extra attention, getting your brows right after 40 requires a bit of patience and somewhat of a learning curve. A big part of that is learning (and accepting) that certain shapes might be unintentionally aging your face. Many women above a certain age may associate thin eyebrows with their youth, as this was the look that dominated during the '90s and early aughts. However, Dylan says the key to giving your face a refreshed quality is to abandon the overly-plucked aesthetic. "In general, softer and slightly fuller brows tend to be the most flattering because they create a more youthful, balanced look," he tells Women.

Whether you're getting your eyebrows done professionally or prepping them at home, Dylan stresses that "less is usually more." This means going easy on the product so you don't end up with a dramatic or heavily drawn-on appearance, as this could create an artificial look. You also don't need to get too overboard with the stencils and harsh angles. Instead, keep things simple. "A gentle arch usually works well on most faces," he exclusively tells Women. "Focus on creating soft definition rather than trying to build a very sharp or heavy brow."

To avoid overfilling, the esthetician says that using "small hair-like strokes, a slightly lifted tail, and choosing a shade that isn't too dark can make a big difference." A good rule of thumb to follow here is to opt for a shade slightly lighter than your hair's roots, though if you're blond, you may want an exact match. As for tools, reviewers recommend the Anastasia Beverly Hills High Performance Application Brush for getting that ultra-fine, hair-like appearance with brow product. Technique also matters. "I recommend brushing the brows upward to keep them looking softer and more natural." Dylan adds that "a clear or tinted brow gel can help add volume and control shape."