Eyebrows are bringing in big bucks these days for the beauty business, according to a report released recently by consumer-market research firm NPD Group.
In the 12 months that ended in March, eyebrow makeup was the fastest-growing category of eye makeup, up 28 percent. It's responsible for about $122 million in sales and represents about 11 percent of total prestige eye makeup purchases in the United States.
But why all the buzz about brows? Many attribute it to the "Cara Effect," a nod to supermodel Cara Delevingne, whose own bushy brows have elevated the look from bland to glam in fashion and pop culture. (Actress Lily Collins also is often cited as a contributor to the eyebrow bonanza.)
Now more and more women are trying to unleash their inner supermodel, too, by being bold with their brows with makeup targeting the area. Growth in the number of women seeking brow transplant procedures also has been noticed.
Despite the rising interest, fewer than 80 percent of prestige makeup retailers carry brow-specific beauty products. But women don't need lots of cosmetics -- or cosmetic surgery -- to make their eyebrows pop.
Julie Marckisotto, a Pittsburgh makeup artist with more than 20 years of experience in the industry, shares tips for how to easily wow with your brows:
Start simply: If new to filling in brows, try a brow powder (her favorite: Vanitymark). Pick one that matches your normal brow color (don't go too dark!), and use an eyebrow brush to apply the product in short strokes. This will provide a softer look than using a brow pencil.
Make it last: Set the look with a clear gel to keep the brows in place. Marckisotto recommends a couple coats of Maybelline's clear mascara to accomplish this.
Get a good shape: Makeup works best on eyebrows that are shaped well. But think twice before you tweeze. Over-tweezing is a common mistake and sometimes the removed hair doesn't grow back. Also, when letting the brows grow out a bit, it can be tough to resist going for the tweezers. Work with a brow specialist at a salon to help you determine when and what to pluck. Growing out your brows is like growing out your bangs -- it takes patience.
High Profile on 07/27/2014