The Ultimate Guide to Purple Glue Stick Eyebrows: Brow Blocking for a Transformed Look
Eyebrow trends are constantly evolving, from the thin, minimalist brows of the 90s to the bold, microbladed looks of today. One technique gaining popularity for its transformative effect is "brow blocking," which involves using a glue stick to completely cover the eyebrows. This method allows for a temporary change in appearance and is often used by drag queens, stage actors, and those creating elaborate Halloween costumes. While the results can be striking, it's important to understand the process and safety considerations involved. This article provides a comprehensive tutorial on how to achieve the purple glue stick eyebrow look, ensuring a safe and stunning transformation.
Understanding Brow Blocking
Brow blocking is a technique used to completely cover the eyebrows, creating a blank canvas for a new brow shape or a completely different look. This is particularly useful for:
- Costumes: Perfect for Halloween or cosplay, allowing for dramatic character transformations.
- Stage Makeup: Actors can alter their appearance to suit different roles.
- Drag: Drag queens use brow blocking to create exaggerated and theatrical brow shapes.
- Experimentation: Individuals can try out different brow styles without committing to permanent changes like shaving.
Is it Safe?
Applying glue to the skin, especially repeatedly, raises concerns about safety. However, using the right type of glue and following proper techniques can minimize risks.
Choosing the Right Glue
Selecting the appropriate glue is crucial for a safe and effective brow blocking experience.
- Purple Glue Sticks: These are a popular choice because they dry clear, making them easier to conceal with makeup.
- Elmer's School Glue Sticks (Disappearing Purple): A mainstream favorite, Elmer's glue sticks are non-toxic, acid-free, and washable, reducing the likelihood of irritation unless you have a specific allergy or sensitivity.
- Cosmetic-Grade Options: If you prefer, there are cosmetic-grade glues specifically designed for this purpose.
Important Note: Avoid using liquid glue, even the Elmer's variety, as glue sticks provide better hold and control. Never use wood glue or cyanoacrylate glue (Super Glue), as these are not safe for skin application.
Read also: How to Use Oribe Purple Shampoo
Step-by-Step Tutorial: Achieving the Purple Glue Stick Eyebrow Look
Follow these steps to effectively glue down your eyebrows and create a flawless base for your desired look.
Step 1: Preparing Your Eyebrows
Proper preparation is essential for ensuring the glue adheres well and the final result is smooth.
- Cleanse Your Brows: Thoroughly wash your eyebrows to remove any makeup, oils, or dirt. Use a gentle cleanser or micellar water. Saturate a cotton pad with micellar water and sweep it over your brows.
- (Optional) Brush Eyebrows: Brush your eyebrows up with a spoolie so they lie better when being glued down.
Step 2: Applying the Glue
This is where the magic happens. The goal is to coat each hair thoroughly and flatten the brows against the skin.
- Apply Glue Against the Hair Growth: Rub your purple glue stick in the opposite direction of hair growth to coat all the brow hairs. Make little circles, repeating until you know every single strand is covered in glue. You can apply the glue stick directly to your brows or use a cosmetics spatula to transfer the glue. Ensure the purple color is evident, but limit the glue to the eyebrow area as much as possible.
- (Optional) Add Another Layer: Add another layer of glue to ensure the base of your layering process is as flat as possible.
- Spoolie the Brows: While the glue is tacky but not wet, brush your brows back into their natural position to make them flat. You can also brush up if that works better for your brows. Spoolie the brows upwards to reinforce that shape and direction if needed.
Step 3: Setting the Glue
Setting the glue helps to create a smooth, flat surface for makeup application.
- Apply Translucent Powder: Apply translucent powder to your eyebrows until they are flat and hair is barely visible. Use a makeup brush to really pack loose powder on top of the glue.
- Repeat if Necessary: It's recommended to repeat the glue and powder steps 2-3 times, or until your eyebrows feel flat and stiff.
Step 4: Concealing the Brows
Concealing the glued-down eyebrows ensures they are completely hidden, creating a blank canvas for your new look.
Read also: Dark Brown Hair with Purple
- Blend Concealer: Blend your concealer on top of the covered brows and blend out until the powder isn't visible anymore. Lightly brush off any excess powder and reach for a full coverage concealer to conceal what used to be your brows.
- Apply Foundation: To truly get a seamless look and make your brows appear invisible, follow up your concealer with a full coverage foundation. Apply it all over your eyebrows and face, patting it in with a brush or sponge to evenly blend with the concealer.
Step 5: Creating Your New Brows (Optional)
Now that your natural brows are completely covered, you can create any brow shape you desire or embrace a browless look.
- Draw on New Brows: If you are planning to draw on a new and improved arch, use an eyebrow gel or pencil to shape your dream arches.
- Colored Brows: If you want a colored brow, reach for a colored eyeliner.
Removing the Glue
Proper removal is just as important as the application. Gentle and thorough removal will prevent irritation and damage to the skin.
- Use Oil-Based Remover or Coconut Oil: To remove the rest of the glue, continue to rub oil-based remover or coconut oil over the covered eyebrows.
- Spoolie Through Eyebrows: Spoolie through eyebrows.
- Be Careful: Careful to not get witch hazel in your eyes.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Brow Blocking
- Patience is Key: Allow each layer of glue and powder to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
- Use Thin Layers: Applying thin layers of glue prevents clumping and ensures a smoother finish.
- Blend, Blend, Blend: Thoroughly blend the concealer and foundation to create a seamless transition between the covered brows and the surrounding skin.
- Experiment with Shapes: Brow blocking allows you to experiment with different brow shapes and styles. Don't be afraid to try something new!
- Practice Makes Perfect: Like any makeup technique, brow blocking takes practice. Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect.
Safety Considerations
- Choose the Right Glue: Always use a non-toxic, skin-safe glue stick.
- Patch Test: If you have sensitive skin, perform a patch test before applying glue to your entire eyebrow area.
- Avoid Eye Contact: Be careful not to get glue in your eyes.
- Gentle Removal: Use a gentle, oil-based remover to avoid irritating the skin.
- Moisturize: After removing the glue, moisturize the eyebrow area to replenish any lost moisture.
Read also: Using Purple Shampoo on Brown Hair
tags:
#purple #glue #stick #eyebrows #tutorial
You may also like to read
