Common Eyebrow Lamination issues - and how to fix them

Eyebrow Lamination gone wrong: What was the cause?

Not every Brow Lamination turns out how you imagined, and that’s okay. The key is understanding what went wrong so you can adjust and improve. Here are the most common causes of a Brow Lamination gone wrong - plus quick fixes to get better results next time!

→ Wrong processing time

Cause: Leaving the solutions on too long (or not long enough) for the client's brow type. This often leads to underprocessed or overprocessed results.

Quick Fix: Adjust your timing based on the thickness and condition of the brow hairs. Here’s a quick breakdown:

When applying Nr. 1 Relaxing Lotion:

• • Very fine brows: 3–4 minutes

  • Fine or tinted brows: 4–5 minutes

  • Natural healthy brows: 5–6 minutes

  • Coarse healthy brows: 6–7 minutes

When applying Nr. 2 The Laminate:

• • Very fine, fine, or tinted brows: 5 minutes

  • Natural healthy and coarse healthy brows: 6 minutes

Always use a timer, and never guess. Timing = best results.

→ No visible results

Cause: The brows look untouched after treatment.. no lift, no shape change, no hold. This is frustrating, but there are multiple possible reasons behind it.

Quick Fix: Start troubleshooting with these key questions:

• • Was the processing time too short? Always adjust timing based on hair type (see guide above).

  • Was enough product applied? The solution must fully saturate the brows from root to tip, don’t be too conservative.

  • Is the product fresh? Brow Lamination formulas lose their power if they’ve been open too long (more than 48 hours) or are past their expiration date.

  • Was the area properly prepped? Leftover makeup, skin oils, or residue can block absorption. Always cleanse with a Foam Cleanser or gentle prep product like Prep Peel Gel.

  • What’s the client’s skin type? Oily skin can reduce product penetration and make it harder to see results.

  • Is the client pregnant or breastfeeding? Hormonal changes may impact how the brows respond to the treatment. Results can be less noticeable or fade quicker.

Tip: Take before/after photos and note what you used + timing. These details will help you tweak and perfect the process for each client.

Before and after Brow Lamination results by @paulinahoffman.aesthetic

→ Brows styled incorrectly during processing

Cause: The brow hairs weren’t brushed into the right direction during the treatment or they moved around while the solution was working. This can lead to brows that look messy, uneven, or styled in the wrong shape once the lamination is complete.

Quick Fix: Always shape and brush the brows into their final desired direction during each step, especially right after applying Nr. 1 Relaxing Lotion. Take your time to get every hair in place. And with every hair, we really mean EVERY hair. Nothing is more annoying than one hair that is not joining the party. 

Pro Tip: Use a plastic film over the brows while the solution processes. It helps hold the shape in place, ensures better product penetration, and prevents hairs from shifting mid-treatment.

Using Plastic Film during the treatment can hold the brow hairs in shape.

→ Skin irritation or redness

Cause: This can happen when the patch test is skipped, product is applied on broken or sensitive skin, or too much solution is used too close to the skin. Irritation can appear as redness, itching, or mild burning.. especially in sensitive clients.

Quick Fix: Always patch test 24 - 48 hours before the treatment, even with regular clients. Also, always directly remove leftover residue around the brows. Since it is a chemical solution, you just want to use it on the places it's meant for and don’t have it on other places longer than needed. 

How to patch test: Apply a tiny amount of each solution (Nr. 1 + Nr. 2) behind the ear or on the inside of the arm. Wait and observe for any reaction within 24 - 48 hours.

→ The client simply didn’t like the look

Cause: Miscommunication, unrealistic expectations, or a style that doesn’t suit their face or brows.

Quick Fix: Always consult before treatment. Show reference photos, explain the results, and ask about their brow goals. For natural looks, suggest lighter brushing and less lift. Discover the newest trend Baby Brow Lamination - maybe it’s a nice, more subtle version for clients who don’t want too fluffy brows?

Top Eyebrow Lamination side effects you should know

Even though Brow Lamination is generally safe and non-invasive, like any chemical treatment, it comes with a few possible side effects - especially if the procedure isn’t done properly or the aftercare is skipped. Let’s go over the most common concerns and what you need to know as a brow pro.

Does Eyebrow Lamination damage brows?

It can, but only when it’s not done correctly. Overprocessing, poor product choice, or repeating the treatment too soon can lead to dry, brittle, or frizzy brows.

To avoid damage:

• • Stick to the right processing time per hair type

  • Space out treatments (every 6–8 weeks)

  • Use nourishing aftercare like Elixir No.3 

  • Always perform a full consultation to assess brow health first

  • With proper care, Eyebrow Lamination doesn’t damage your brows - it enhances them.

Can Eyebrow Lamination cause hair loss?

In rare cases, yes. Hair loss can happen if the brows are already weak or damaged, or if the solution is left on for too long. Hormonal imbalances, postpartum changes, or thyroid issues can also contribute to unexpected shedding after treatment.

To prevent it:

• • Never re-laminate too soon

  • Avoid laminating very sparse or fragile brows

  • Keep clients informed if their brow health isn’t ready for lifting

  • Encourage the use of growth-supporting aftercare in between treatments

Is Eyebrow Lamination bad for you?

Not at all - when done correctly and with the right products. The word “bad” usually comes up after a negative experience like irritation, breakage, or unexpected results. But in most cases, it’s about technique, timing, and aftercare.

Here’s when brow lamination can be problematic:

• • Skipping patch tests

  • Using expired or low-quality products

  • Applying on broken or overly sensitive skin

  • Not following correct timing per hair type

When done by a trained professional, lamination is safe, effective, and one of the best treatments for low-maintenance brows.

What happens if I get my eyebrows wet after lamination?

Moisture too soon after a lamination = disaster. The brows need time to set and hold their new shape. Water, steam, or sweat in the first 24 - 48 hours can break the bond and cause:

• • Brows to lose their lift

  • Hairs to return to their natural growth direction

  • Patchy or uneven results

  • Shortened longevity of the treatment

Client aftercare tip: No washing, sweating, or applying products for at least 24 hours - ideally 48. And always remind them to keep eyebrows dry after a shower and avoid the sauna or gym right after treatment.

Expert tips on how to fix a bad Brow Lamination

Even with all the right prep and timing, sometimes a Brow Lamination doesn’t go as planned. Whether the brows are too flat, too frizzy, or your client simply doesn’t love the result. Here are expert-approved ways to correct the situation and help the brows recover beautifully.

1. For overprocessed or frizzy brows

➔ Apply a hydrating serum or oil daily (like castor oil or a Nourishing Brow Elixir).

➔ Recommend a break of at least 8 weeks before re-laminating.

➔ Trim only if needed - but avoid over-trimming frizzy ends.

2. For brows that look too flat or “stuck”

➔ Use a spoolie to gently fluff them back up once they’ve settled.

➔ Recommend using a Brow Control daily to reshape.

➔ For future appointments, reduce the relaxing time and avoid brushing them down too flat during processing.

3. For uneven or patchy results

➔ If safe, you can repeat the lamination on the weaker brow only after 6 - 8 weeks.

➔ In the meantime, use Liquid Brow Dye to help balance the color and appearance.

4. For clients who hate the look

➔ Educate them on the temporary nature of lamination - it will soften over time. If they make them wet after the treatment, the lamination effect will likely disappear partly.

➔ Recommend brushing brows into a more natural shape using clear brow gel.

➔ Reassure them that next time you’ll use a lighter lift or opt for a baby lamination effect.

5. For a lift that didn’t last

➔ Check if aftercare was followed (brows may have been wet too soon).

➔ Recommend a nourishing overnight oil and possibly a refresh in 6–8 weeks.

➔ For next time: extend the processing time slightly or check the freshness of your product.

Shop Brow & Lash Lamination Starter Kit with everything you need to start 

FAQ

When Brow Lamination goes wrong?
When timing, technique, or aftercare aren’t right - results can turn out frizzy, flat, or uneven.

Are there risks with Brow Lamination?
Yes, if done incorrectly. Risks include irritation, dryness, breakage, or allergic reactions.

What ruins a Brow Lamination?
Overprocessing, wetting brows too soon, or using expired products.

What are the don’ts of Brow Lamination?
Don’t skip the patch test, don’t overprocess, don’t get brows wet for 24-48 hours, and don’t re-laminate too soon (6-8 weeks in between).