Eyebrows frame the face and strongly influence expression. While many people enjoy naturally full brows, others struggle with slow regrowth or thinning.
If you are wondering Why Your Eyebrows Aren’t Growing – And How to Fix It, the answer often lies in a mix of habits, health factors, and hair care routines.
Some people even ask unusual questions such as why put vicks on your eyebrows, showing how far people will go to find solutions. This guide explains possible causes of poor growth and what you can do to encourage thicker, healthier brows.
Understanding Eyebrow Hair Growth
The Growth Cycle
Eyebrow hair, like scalp hair, follows three stages:
- Anagen (growth phase) – active hair growth lasting 4–6 weeks.
- Catagen (transition phase) – hair stops growing but stays in place.
- Telogen (resting phase) – old hair sheds and new growth begins.
Why This Cycle Matters
When growth slows or hairs shed too early, gaps and thinning appear. Identifying which stage is disrupted helps in correcting the issue.
Why Your Eyebrows Aren’t Growing – And How to Fix It: Over-Plucking
The Impact of Over-Plucking
Repeated tweezing damages follicles. Once scar tissue forms, some hairs may never grow back.
How to Fix It
- Stop tweezing and allow natural growth.
- Trim only long hairs rather than plucking.
- Use makeup to fill in sparse areas during recovery.
Health Conditions That Affect Growth
Thyroid Disorders
Both underactive and overactive thyroids can cause thinning brows, particularly at the tail end.
Nutrient Deficiencies
- Low iron levels can reduce density.
- Lack of vitamins such as biotin and vitamin D weakens follicles.
- Protein deficiency slows overall hair growth.
How to Fix It
- Get blood tests to check levels.
- Include iron-rich foods such as spinach and lentils.
- Take supplements under professional guidance if needed.
Why Your Eyebrows Aren’t Growing – And How to Fix It: Ageing
How Age Affects Brows
As we age, hair growth cycles shorten. Follicles shrink and produce finer hairs.
How to Fix It
- Apply nourishing oils to strengthen hairs.
- Consider professional treatments like tinting or lamination for a fuller look.
- Use semi-permanent options such as microblading or nano brows if natural regrowth slows.
Skin Conditions
Eczema and Psoriasis
Inflammation around brows can damage follicles and slow regrowth.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Flaking and irritation interfere with healthy hair production.
How to Fix It
- Use dermatologist-recommended creams to manage conditions.
- Keep the area moisturised with gentle, fragrance-free products.
Lifestyle Factors
Stress
High stress can trigger hair shedding, including in brows.
Poor Sleep
Lack of rest reduces cell repair, which is needed for healthy follicles.
Smoking and Alcohol
Both weaken circulation and slow hair growth.
How to Fix It
- Manage stress with relaxation techniques.
- Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep per night.
- Reduce smoking and alcohol consumption for better overall hair health.
Why Your Eyebrows Aren’t Growing – And How to Fix It: Skincare Mistakes
Harsh Products
Using strong acids, retinol, or harsh cleansers near brows can weaken hairs.
Makeup Residue
Not removing makeup properly clogs follicles and prevents growth.
How to Fix It
- Use mild cleansers around brows.
- Always remove makeup before bed.
- Avoid applying strong actives directly on brows.
Natural Remedies
Castor Oil
Rich in fatty acids that condition follicles and encourage stronger growth.
Coconut Oil
Helps hydrate hairs and prevent breakage.
Aloe Vera
Soothes skin and provides gentle nourishment.
How to Use Remedies
- Apply nightly with a cotton bud.
- Leave on overnight for best results.
- Continue consistently for 6–8 weeks.
Brow Serums
What They Contain
Serums often include peptides, keratin, and vitamins that support hair growth.
How to Apply
- Use daily on clean brows.
- Results may take 2–3 months.
Benefits and Limits
They can thicken existing hairs and speed growth, but they cannot restore follicles that are permanently damaged.
Why Your Eyebrows Aren’t Growing – And How to Fix It with Diet
Nutrients for Growth
- Iron – prevents thinning.
- Zinc – supports tissue repair.
- Vitamin B complex – important for healthy hair.
- Omega-3 fatty acids – nourish follicles.
Foods to Eat
- Eggs, nuts, and seeds.
- Oily fish such as salmon.
- Leafy greens and legumes.
- Whole grains and lean meats.
Professional Treatments
Tinting
Darkens hairs for a fuller look without affecting growth.
Lamination
Sets hairs upward to give volume and thickness.
Microblading and Nano Brows
Semi-permanent techniques that create the appearance of fullness when natural growth is limited.
When to Consider These
If follicles are permanently damaged or slow to regrow, cosmetic options can provide lasting enhancement.
Patience in the Growth Process
How Long It Takes
Eyebrows grow slowly, often less than 1 mm per week. Full recovery after over-plucking may take 3–6 months.
Why Consistency Matters
Daily care, good diet, and avoiding harmful habits gradually lead to healthier, thicker brows.
Common Myths
Shaving Makes Brows Grow Faster
False. Hair thickness and growth speed are determined by genetics.
Applying Toothpaste Works
False. Toothpaste can irritate skin and damage follicles.
Brows Grow Back in Days
False. Regrowth takes weeks or months, depending on the hair cycle.
Why Your Eyebrows Aren’t Growing – And How to Fix It for Men
Men’s Concerns
Men also experience sparse brows due to age, over-grooming, or health conditions.
Solutions for Men
- Avoid over-trimming.
- Use oils or serums if thinning occurs.
- Seek medical advice if sudden loss happens.
Long-Term Maintenance
Daily Care Routine
- Cleanse gently.
- Brush brows with a spoolie.
- Apply a light oil or serum.
Weekly Care
- Exfoliate lightly to remove dead skin cells.
- Check for stray hairs and trim only when needed.
Conclusion
Over-plucking, ageing, and medical conditions are common reasons for sparse brows, but solutions include improving diet, using natural oils or serums, and adopting healthier routines.
For those with permanent follicle damage, professional treatments like tinting, lamination, or semi-permanent tattooing can help restore the appearance of fullness.
With patience, consistency, and the right approach, most people can achieve healthier, thicker brows that complement their features.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for eyebrows to grow back?
On average, it takes 3–6 months to see full regrowth, though this varies by age, health, and how often brows were previously plucked or waxed.
Can natural oils really make eyebrows grow?
They cannot create new follicles but can strengthen existing ones, making brows appear fuller and healthier over time.
Should I see a doctor if my eyebrows are not growing?
Yes, if growth has stopped suddenly or if hair loss appears in other areas, as this could signal a thyroid condition, hormonal imbalance, or nutrient deficiency.