Brow Lamination Timing: Key Factors and How to Avoid Mistakes

Brow lamination is a popular beauty treatment that uses chemical formulas to shape and hold eyebrow hairs in place. To achieve long-lasting, natural, and most importantly safe results for both hair and skin, adhering to the correct processing time is essential. But what exactly does this time depend on? How can it be accurately determined? And what happens if the time is misjudged? At MONLIS School in Munich, future beauty professionals learn exactly this—hands-on and in theory.

Why Is Processing Time So Important?

Processing time refers to the duration during which the chemical solutions—especially the lifting lotion—remain on the brow hairs. During this time, the cuticle layer of the hair opens, making the hair structure malleable and shapeable. If the time is too short, the desired effect won't develop. If it’s too long, the result can be overprocessed: hairs may become dry, brittle, lose shine, or even break.

What Factors Influence Processing Time?

At MONLIS School, it is taught that there is no "one-size-fits-all" duration. Several factors must be taken into account:

1. Hair Structure and Thickness

Thick, coarse brow hairs usually require longer processing times than fine, delicate hairs. In dense brows, the product may need more time to penetrate and take effect evenly.

2. Condition of the Brow Hairs

Previously treated or weakened hairs—for example, from frequent tinting or earlier lamination—are more sensitive. In such cases, a reduced processing time is necessary to prevent damage.

3. Product Used and Manufacturer Guidelines

Each professional product includes specific instructions. These must always be followed. At MONLIS School, students are trained to read and apply product information correctly and thoroughly.

4. Environmental Factors: Temperature and Humidity

External factors like room temperature and humidity can accelerate or slow down the reaction of the product. That’s why it’s important to adjust the timing according to the working environment.

Common Mistakes in Processing Time – And How to Avoid Them

Mistake 1: Leaving the Product on Too Long

Beginners often think “longer is better,” but the opposite is true. Overprocessed hairs lose elasticity and become more prone to damage. This is particularly risky for fine or previously treated hair.

Mistake 2: Removing the Product Too Early

Out of fear of damage, some may rinse too soon—resulting in underdeveloped results. The hairs don’t hold their shape and may return to their original direction quickly. MONLIS School teaches how to strike the right balance.

Mistake 3: Ignoring Individual Differences

Every client is unique. While a standard processing time can serve as a reference, a true professional adapts the timing to the client’s specific hair type and condition.

How to Calculate the Optimal Processing Time

At MONLIS School, students learn to determine the ideal processing time through a detailed analysis of the client’s hair and skin. This includes:

• Pre-treatment evaluation (hair thickness, strength, treatment history)

• Test strand application, especially when using a new product

• Ongoing monitoring of the hair's reaction during the procedure

Pro Tip from MONLIS School

Experienced instructors recommend always using a timer and keeping a record of each client's treatment process. These notes are invaluable for future sessions and help refine the results. The training at MONLIS also covers working with various product brands and their unique processing guidelines.

Processing time is one of the most important factors in achieving safe, effective, and long-lasting brow lamination results. Understanding what influences this time and how to tailor it to each client ensures professional results without risk. At MONLIS School in Munich, students don’t just learn theory—they gain practical experience and the confidence to make informed decisions for every treatment.