What Happened to My Eyebrows?

Brows can become thinner or thicker over time — learn why this can happen.

By Emma Pitzl

Are your eyebrows changing? You’re not alone. Over time, it’s common for hair all over your body to change color, type, texture and thickness. This includes your eyebrows. Stray hairs, random grays and uneven growth patterns can alter your personal grooming routine. These changes may highlight your personal style or be a chance to redefine your look. No matter the case, these tips can help you understand your body’s natural shifts and feel good about your brows.

Animated image of numerous faces with various types of eyebrows

Why eyebrows change with age

No sets of eyebrows are alike. Changes in hair color and appearance vary from person to person and depend on factors including:

Genetics
Factors such as age, sex and natural genetic differences can affect how and when your brow hair changes

Lifestyle
Stress, along with smoking, drinking and other habits, may cause faster changes; sun exposure and swimming may also affect brows and their color

Diet
A diet with lots of protein, carbohydrates and vitamins supports healthy hair growth

Environment
Smoke, certain chemicals and UV rays can slow hair growth over time

General health
Hormonal changes, medical conditions and illness can also affect hair growth

Photo of a man looking in a mirror in the bathroom of his home

How to manage unruly eyebrows

When your eyebrows start to grow in ways you never thought possible, consider these options for taming them:

1. Plucking, trimming, threading or waxing
You can remove unwanted hairs with tweezers, or book an appointment with a brow stylist; be gentle with the delicate skin around the eyes

2. Makeup
Use a brow brush to tame stray hairs, or fill in sparse areas with a brow pencil

3. Embrace it
Show off your new look, and play with ways to style your brows naturally

While thinning or thick eyebrow hair may be unexpected, changes in your body are a natural part of life. How you manage them is a personal preference. With thoughtful maintenance, you can shape a look that feels like you.

Brow maintenance — you’ve got options

Swipe through to explore ways to help keep your brows looking their best.

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This publication is for informational purposes only and does not replace the care or advice of a doctor. Always talk with a doctor before beginning any exercise program, therapy or medication. Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and/or copayments/coinsurance may change on January 1 of each year. UnitedHealthcare does not provide any assurances nor accept any responsibility or liability regarding the quality, nutritional value, or safety of the included recipes.