A conversation with Melbourne brow specialist Jacqui from Project Brow
Hybrid dye brows have quickly become one of the most popular brow services in salons. The treatment gives clients a fuller, more defined brow while also staining the skin for that soft, makeup-like finish. When performed correctly, the results can last for weeks and dramatically enhance the overall shape of the brows.
To learn more about how artists can perfect this technique, we sat down with Jacqui, founder of Project Brow in Diamond Creek, Melbourne.
Jacqui has been working in the brow industry since 2009, treating thousands of clients and specialising in PMU, brow tattooing, lip blush, hybrid dye brows, and advanced brow shaping services. Earlier in her career, Jacqui worked at Distinctive Features, one of Melbourne’s well known cosmetic tattoo studios and the same clinic where Elle Dosser of Arch Affinity also built her career before becoming a speaker at the 2024 International Lash Masters Lash & Brow Conference.
Today Jacqui runs Project Brow, where hybrid dye brows have become one of the most requested treatments among her clients. This year she will also serve as a judge in the Hybrid Dye category at the International Lash Masters Awards, recognising excellence within the industry.
We asked Jacqui to share her top tips for achieving the perfect hybrid dye result.
Hybrid dye brows have become incredibly popular. Why do you think clients love this treatment so much?
Hybrid dye brows are perfect for clients who want a fuller, more defined brow without committing to cosmetic tattooing.
In my studio, I see a lot of clients who want their brows to look more structured and filled in, but still natural. Hybrid dye works beautifully for that because it stains both the brow hairs and the skin, which creates that soft makeup effect while still looking natural.
When the service is done correctly, it can completely enhance the shape of the brows and frame the face really well.
What’s the first step artists should focus on when performing hybrid dye brows?
Proper preparation is essential.
One of the most common issues I see with hybrid dye is uneven staining, and that usually comes down to the prep stage. Oils, makeup and skincare can create a barrier on the skin that stops the dye from staining evenly.
I always make sure the brow area is thoroughly cleansed before applying the dye, and if needed I’ll lightly exfoliate the area so the dye can grip the skin properly. Starting with a clean canvas makes a huge difference to how evenly the dye develops.
How important is brow mapping before applying hybrid dye?
Brow mapping is the secret to symmetrical, balanced brows.
Because hybrid dye stains the skin as well as the hairs, it’s really important to map the shape first so you know exactly where you want the stain to sit. Taking the time to map the brows carefully ensures the shape suits the client’s face and keeps the result looking clean and structured.
After working with thousands of brow clients over the years, I’ve found that mapping is one of the biggest factors in achieving consistent results.
How do you approach choosing the right dye colour for a client?
Selecting the right colour is key to natural looking results.
When choosing a shade, I always consider the client’s skin tone, undertone, hair colour, and how bold they want their brows to look. Sometimes the perfect colour doesn’t come straight from the bottle, so I’ll mix two shades together to create a customised tone that suits the client better.
That small adjustment can make a big difference to how natural the final result looks.
Hybrid dye is very pigmented. How do you control the application?
Application technique makes a big difference with hybrid dye because it is highly pigmented.
I apply the dye using an angled brush in very thin layers using a stamping motion so I can control exactly where the product sits. I personally use the Thic Brow Co XL Angled Brush because it allows for precise placement.
Working in thin layers helps ensure the dye fully saturates the skin where you want the stain, without creating overly heavy or blocky brows.
I also always apply the dye to the fronts of the brows last and remove it there first, which helps keep the front of the brow soft and natural looking.
How much does timing affect the final result?
Timing plays a big role in how the brows develop.
The processing time affects both the hair colour and the skin stain, so removing the dye at the right moment is important. If it’s left on too long, the brows can appear darker than intended.
Over time, you start to understand how different skin types and brow densities affect processing time. Adjusting your timing slightly depending on the client can help achieve a much more balanced result.
What aftercare advice do you give your clients?
Aftercare plays a huge role in how long the stain lasts.
I always advise clients to avoid oil-based products around the brow area, excessive sweating, and touching the brows for the first 24 hours after their appointment.
Following proper aftercare helps maintain the skin stain and keeps the brows looking defined for longer.
Final thoughts on hybrid dye brows
Hybrid dye brows are an excellent option for clients who want fuller, longer lasting brows without committing to cosmetic tattooing.
When applied with the right preparation, colour choice, and technique, the results can be beautifully defined while still looking soft and natural.
It’s a treatment that continues to grow in popularity, and when performed correctly it can completely transform the look of the brows.
Recognising Excellence in Hybrid Dye
As hybrid dye brows continue to grow in popularity, they are also becoming one of the most exciting skill categories within the professional lash and brow industry.
This year, Jacqui from Project Brow will be serving as a judge in the Hybrid Dye category at the International Lash Masters Awards, where artists from across Australia and New Zealand will showcase their work and compete for industry recognition.
The award winners will be announced at the International Lash Masters Lash & Brow Conference in Melbourne on 19–20 September, where some of the most talented artists, educators and brands in the industry come together for two days of education, networking and celebration.
For artists specialising in hybrid dye, it’s an opportunity to have their work recognised on a national stage and be part of one of the most respected events in the lash and brow industry.
