Home / Blog · · By Olivia Berry
Brow lamination and brow waxing sit side by side on my menu, and people often ask which one they need. They do different jobs, and plenty of clients get both. Here is the difference.
What a brow wax does
A brow wax shapes your brows by removing stray hair around the edges, so the line above and below is clean and defined. It is quick, about 15 minutes, and $30. It does not change the direction or fullness of the hairs that stay.
What brow lamination does
Brow lamination styles the hairs themselves. A lamination solution relaxes the brow hairs so they can be set in a brushed-up, fuller position. The brows look smooth, lifted and neat. It takes about 30 minutes and is $95. It does not remove hair, so the shape is whatever you have unless you add a wax.
Because lamination sets the hairs in the direction they are styled, many people find they do not need to brush or gel their brows each morning. Your brows still grow and shed as they always do, so the style softens over time as the hairs are replaced. How long that takes varies from person to person, so ask me what to expect for your brows.
Which one is for you?
A wax is a good choice if:
- your brows already sit the way you like and you want them tidied
- you want a quick, low-cost visit
- you like a soft, natural brow
Lamination is worth a look if:
- your brow hairs grow in different directions
- you want fuller-looking brows without filling them in
- you like a brushed-up, defined style
There is no wrong answer here, and your choice can change. Some clients start with a wax and add lamination later. Others do lamination every time and add a wax when the outline needs tidying. If you have never had either, a wax is a gentle way to begin, and lamination is a good next step once you know how you like your brows to look.
Adding a tint
A tint adds color to the hairs and the skin under them, so brows look darker and more defined. A Brow Tint on its own is $30 and about 15 minutes. If you want lamination and color together, the Brow Lamination & Tint is $115 and about 30 minutes. A tint can also be done with a wax, so shape and color are done in the same visit.
Pairing them
Lamination and wax work well together, with the wax cleaning up the outline and the lamination setting the hairs. If you want both, mention it when you book so we have time to do both well. If you are new to either, I will ask you to do a free patch test first.
Looking after the result
For the first 24 hours after lamination, keep the brows dry and avoid touching or brushing them down. After a wax, avoid touching the area and skip heavy makeup on the waxed skin. I give you an aftercare sheet at your visit, and the aftercare page has the general guidance.
Not sure?
If you are unsure which to choose, tell me how you wear your brows now and what you would like to change. We can pick the right service together. I am in Bothell, by appointment only, and you can book online through Square.
A note on the terms
If any word in this post is new to you, the lash and brow terms explained page covers lamination, tint, wax and more in plain language.
If you are sensitive to products or have a skin condition around your brows, tell me before we start, and talk to a medical professional if you are unsure. I would rather change the plan than have you uncomfortable. And if you are choosing between lamination and the lash side of the menu, remember that brows and lashes can be done in separate visits or booked back to back, depending on the time you have.
Finally, remember that brows frame the face, so small changes show. If you are nervous, ask for a conservative first visit. We can always do more at your next appointment, and the full service list shows what else you can pair with it.