Tint vs Hybrid Dye vs Henna: What’s the Difference?

by Nancy Pham

When it comes to enhancing your brows, there's no shortage of colouring options available, but not all are created equal. Whether you’re a client looking to freshen up your brows or a beauty student learning the ropes, understanding the difference between Tint, Hybrid Dye, and Henna is essential. Here’s a breakdown of each method, how they work, and who they’re best suited for.

1. Brow Tint

What it is:

Traditional brow tint is a gentle semi-permanent dye formulated specifically for brow hairs. It darkens the brow hairs to create a fuller, more defined look.

How it works:

The tint is applied to the brow hairs and slightly stains the skin for a short period, usually 1 to 10 minutes depending on the brand and desired intensity.

Results:

  • Stains the hair only with minimal skin staining

  • Natural-looking result

  • Lasts 2-3 weeks on hair

  • Skin stain lasts up to 1 week

Best for:

Clients who want a soft, subtle brow enhancement without dramatically changing the shape or intensity.

 

2. Hybrid Dye

What it is:

Hybrid dye is a new-generation brow colour that combines the benefits of tint and henna. It delivers longer-lasting results with a deeper skin stain, giving a more structured, defined look.

How it works:

The hybrid formula penetrates both the hair shaft and lightly stains the skin, offering longer wear time and a more filled-in appearance. 

Results:

  • Stains both hair and skin

  • Skin stain lasts up to 12 days

  • Hair colour lasts up to 4 weeks

  • Offers a more defined, makeup-like result

Best for:

Clients who love a bolder brow or want to cut down on daily brow makeup. Great for covering gaps or sparse areas.

 

3. Henna Brows

What it is:

Henna is a plant-based, natural dye made from the Lawsonia plant. It’s a vegan-friendly option that’s been used for centuries and is loved for its long-lasting skin stain.

How it works:

Henna stains the skin and hair using a powder that’s mixed into a paste and applied to the brows. It has a longer processing time than tint or hybrid dye.

Results:

  • Strong skin stain lasting 10 to 14 days

  • Hair colour lasts 4-6 weeks

  • Best stain performance on dry or normal skin types

Best for:

Clients with oil-free skin, those looking for a natural product, or anyone wanting a long-lasting skin stain to mimic the look of filled-in brows.

 

Each method has its own unique benefits and the right choice depends on your brow goals, skin type, and lifestyle. If you're unsure which is right for you, always chat with your brow specialist who will recommend the best option to suit your individual needs.

Whether you’re a client or a beauty student, knowing the science and strategy behind these treatments helps ensure the best results every time.

Back to BROWS