5 Eyebrow Brow Tinting Alternatives

If you love switching up your style by dying your hair, then you've probably debated getting your eyebrows professionally tinted as well. But if you're not ready to make the jump quite yet (since the FDA hasn't approved the process), these semi-permanent eyebrow tinting alternatives are worth checking out.

Semi-permanent eyebrow tinting is accomplished with dye — the same kind of dye used to color your locks. You can certainly do this at home, but it's not recommended. Having dye that close to your eyeballs is a recipe for disaster. To avoid blinding yourself, your best bet is to go to the salon to have a professional dye your brows. A typical dye job can last anywhere from 10 days to 10 years, depending on your brow hair color and thickness, and the pigment used. Be sure to communicate with your stylist so you get it right the first time, instead of being stuck with permanent crazy brows.

If you're determined to go to the salon, opt for a vegetable-based or natural dye. These have fewer chemicals so they're gentler on your skin. Be sure to take out your contacts and avoid wearing eye makeup to the salon.

If you're more the DIY type, you can certainly achieve the tinted brow look without the dye. Here's my favorite eyebrow tinting alternatives.

1. Brow Mascara

NYX Cosmetics Tinted Eyebrow Mascara, $12, Amazon

If you want bold brows but don't want to spend the time tediously drawing them on or in, a brow mascara is perfect for you. A few short brush strokes on each brow and your hairs are tamed and coated to look thicker and bolder.

2. Brow Pomade

Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade, $27, Amazon

This product comes in 11 colors ranging from golden blonde to granite, so you'll find the exact shade you need. I like pomade for gals with very thin brows, because you can use a tiny brush to create the exact arch and shape you want.

3. Brow Pencil

e.l.f Instant Lift Brow Pencil, $10, Amazon

A brow pencil is a great option for people who have plenty of brow thickness and color, but need to fill in the gaps.

4. All Natural DIY Tint

You can create a natural, semi-permanent tint from the ingredients hanging out in your kitchen. Easy!

5. Peel Off Eyebrow Tattoo

It sounds crazy, but this DIY creation of glue and food coloring can permanently dye your eyebrows. For you adventurous types, this is a great and affordable alternative to the salon.

Images: Andrew Zaeh/Bustle