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The Grey Brow Epidemic: What’s Going On?

26 May The Grey Brow Epidemic: What’s Going On?

Posted at 11:23h in Eyebrow Tattoos by

If you’ve noticed a growing number of grey-toned eyebrows walking around Port Moody, you’re not imagining things. At Halcyon Cosmetic Studio, we correct brows every day—and often hear the same question: “Why did my brows turn grey?”

The answer lies in the type of pigment used during permanent makeup (PMU). Specifically: organic vs. inorganic pigments. Understanding this difference is key to choosing the right technique and achieving long-lasting, natural-looking brows.

Organic Pigments: Vibrant but Problematic

First, let’s clear something up: organic pigments aren’t grass-fed or chemical-free. In the pigment world, “organic” just means carbon-based—like all living things.

Most organic brow pigments are made using carbon black, a deep black powder created by burning petroleum products. While carbon black adds rich depth to brow tones, it’s also extremely stable—meaning it sticks around for a long, long time.

Because organic pigments are quite transparent, manufacturers add titanium dioxide (TD)—a white pigment—to boost opacity and give coverage. Here’s the problem:

  • TD molecules have a high affinity for each other and tend to cluster over time.
  • As other pigments fade, the carbon black gets trapped inside these white clusters.
  • The result? Brows that slowly shift to a dull, unnatural grey—especially if the original pigment was a dark brown with a lot of black.

Worse still, these grey brows can be very difficult—sometimes impossible—to remove with laser or saline.

Inorganic Pigments: Stable, Natural-Looking Results

In contrast, inorganic pigments—which originally came from minerals but are now synthesized in labs—tend to be more opaque and stable.

They come in a range of neutral blondes and browns, and many don’t need black added at all. But when they do, it’s an inorganic black pigment, not carbon black. That means:

  • Less risk of discolouration over time.
  • No titanium dioxide is needed to make them opaque.
  • Brows that fade gradually and naturally—not into stubborn shades of grey.

At Halcyon Cosmetic Studio in Port Moody, we specialize in the use of high-quality inorganic pigments that are carefully selected for colour stability and long-term satisfaction. We only use organic pigments when absolutely appropriate—and with full disclosure to the client.

So, Why Do So Many Artists Still Use Organic Pigments?

Short answer: because it’s easier for the artist.

Organic pigments implant smoothly and quickly, making them ideal for beginners or high-volume brow studios. They create sharp, vibrant results that look great for social media—at least, at first.

But over time, that convenience can lead to disappointment. And unfortunately, many clients aren’t aware of the trade-offs until it’s too late.

How to Avoid Grey Brows

  • Ask your artist what type of pigment they use—and why.
  • Understand that darker isn’t always better. The deeper the brown, the more likely it contains carbon black.
  • Choose a qualified artist with extensive experience in using inorganic pigments and neutral tones.
  • Know that all permanent makeup fades—but how it fades is just as important as how it heals.

Why This Matters at Halcyon Cosmetic Studio

At Halcyon, we take pride in our honest, science-based approach to cosmetic tattooing. We prioritize skin health, long-term results, and colour integrity. That’s why:

  • We almost exclusively use inorganic pigments that are less likely to shift to unwanted tones.
  • We are trained and experienced in the nuances of these pigments, which require more skill but deliver superior results.
  • We never compromise technique for convenience—and we’re always happy to educate our clients before treatment.

FAQs

Q: Will my brows still fade with inorganic pigment?
Yes—but they’ll fade gradually and naturally, without turning grey. Periodic touch-ups are recommended every 1–3 years.

Q: Can grey brows be fixed?
In some cases, yes—but it depends on the pigment and skin. Corrections often require removal, colour correction, or both. Book a consultation with us to see what’s possible.

Q: Is one pigment type better for certain skin tones?
Yes. Inorganic pigments offer a wide range of neutral tones that can be matched to your undertones more precisely. They’re especially great for mature or sensitive skin.

Ready for Brows That Age Gracefully?

If you’re in Port Moody, Coquitlam, or the Tri-Cities area, and want brows that will look beautiful for years—not months—book a consultation with us today. Your skin deserves permanent makeup that ages as gracefully as you do.

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