What causes sparse outer eyebrows, and what can be done about it?

Under normal circumstances, sparse eyebrows at the tail may be caused by over-plucking, frequent makeup application or improper makeup removal, malnutrition, endocrine disorders, seborrheic dermatitis, and other factors. Treatments such as eyebrow tattooing, eyebrow transplantation, laser therapy, or medication can be performed under medical guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Over-Plucking

Excessive plucking may damage hair follicles, making it difficult for eyebrows to regrow and leading to sparseness at the tail. When shaping eyebrows, moderation is important to avoid over-trimming the outer portions. Eyebrow tattooing can also be considered under a doctor’s guidance, using specialized instruments to implant dye into the skin's surface to create semi-permanent brow shapes. The typical reference cost for eyebrow tattooing ranges from 1,000 to 5,000 yuan per session. Improvement is usually visible within 1–2 months after the procedure, although possible side effects include infection and pigmentation.

2. Frequent Makeup Use or Improper Makeup Removal

Frequent makeup application or aggressive makeup removal may damage and cause shedding of the outer portion of the eyebrows. It is advisable to limit the frequency of eyebrow makeup and use gentle motions during cleansing to avoid excessive friction or pulling. Alternatively, eyebrow transplantation may be recommended by a physician, which involves extracting healthy hair follicles from the back of the scalp, processing them through separation and cultivation, and transplanting them into areas with thinning eyebrows. The typical reference cost for eyebrow transplantation ranges from 3,000 to 8,000 yuan per session. Noticeable improvement generally appears within 3–6 months, though potential adverse reactions include infection and follicle necrosis.

3. Malnutrition

Long-term picky eating or unbalanced diet leading to malnutrition may result in insufficient nutrient supply to the eyebrows, causing thinning and lightening at the ends. A balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and other essential nutrients should be maintained. Laser therapy may also be conducted under medical advice, utilizing photothermal effects to stimulate hair follicles and promote eyebrow growth. The typical reference cost for laser treatment ranges from 1,000 to 3,000 yuan per session. Some improvement is usually observed within 1–3 weeks, but possible side effects include pigmentation and skin sensitivity.

4. Endocrine Disorders

Chronic sleep deprivation, excessive mental stress, and poor dietary habits may lead to endocrine imbalances. Hormonal disturbances due to such imbalances can affect eyebrow growth, resulting in the aforementioned symptoms. This condition is often accompanied by hair loss, fatigue, and other signs. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as Wuji Baifeng Pills, Kuntai Capsules, orProgesterone Soft Capsules.

5. Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is commonly associated with genetic factors, Malassezia infection, and unhealthy dietary habits. Inflammatory responses may damage hair follicles, leading to inadequate hair growth at the outer part of the eyebrows and resulting in thinning or shedding. Symptoms may include scaling and itching. Treatment should follow medical advice and may involve medications such as Vitamin B2 tablets, selenium sulfide shampoo, or compound ketoconazole cream.

Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, ensuring adequate nutrition, avoiding chronic sleep deprivation and eyebrow trauma is essential to support eyebrow recovery.