Bleach Eyebrows & Eyelashes

Eye with a dark eyebrow and eyelashes
Photo: Dimid 86/Shutterstock
Q: Is it dangerous to bleach your eyebrows? What about eyelashes?
 
A: It is very dangerous to use any hair color or bleach around the eyes.
 
The fumes alone can be irritating, and any accident that allows the color or bleach to get into the eye could result in eye damage, chemical burns, or even permanent loss of vision. The skin around the eyes is also much thinner and more sensitive than the skin on your scalp, making it more susceptible to irritation, redness, and chemical burns.
 
Because of these risks, many salons won't color eyebrows at all. Others that do offer eyebrow tinting or lightening are often extremely careful about the products they use, the amount of time the product remains on the hair, and the techniques they follow to minimize the chance of the product coming into contact with the eyes. Even then, there is always some degree of risk whenever chemicals are applied so close to the eye area.
 
If you're considering lightening your eyebrows to match newly colored hair or to achieve a particular look, it's important to understand that eyebrow hair is different from scalp hair. It is finer, grows more slowly, and sits directly above one of the most sensitive areas of your face. A mistake that might be minor on your scalp can become a serious medical emergency when it happens near your eyes.
 
I actually don't know of any salons that perform bleaching on eyelashes for the same reason that makes eyebrow bleaching risky. The eyelashes are simply too close to the eyes, leaving virtually no margin for error. A product that slips, drips, or produces irritating fumes can cause immediate pain and potentially serious injury.
 
DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES USE ANY BLEACHING AGENT TO TRY AND BLEACH YOUR EYELASHES AT HOME. Even products specifically designed for bleaching facial hair are not safe for use on the eyelashes. These products were never intended to be applied that close to the eye and do not become safe simply because they are marketed as "gentle" or "for facial hair."
 
Trying to bleach your eyelashes risks severe pain, chemical burns, eye irritation, and permanent vision problems. It simply isn't worth the risk.
 
If your goal is lighter-looking lashes, there are much safer alternatives. Mascaras in brown, blonde, or clear formulas can soften the appearance of dark lashes without exposing your eyes to harsh chemicals. If you're looking for a dramatic cosmetic change, consult a qualified beauty professional about safe options rather than attempting to bleach your lashes yourself.
 
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See also:
 
Can I color my eyebrows?
 
Eyelash and eyebrow tinting services
 
Should your hair color match your eyebrows?