Brow beaters: secrets of perfect eyebrows

Since shaving my eyebrows at 12, I made a promise to myself that all future modifications would be carried out by a well trained professional. However there's more to eyebrow maintenance than the occasional wax and the right tools make doing the job at home really simple. You could even ditch the professionals - and do the whole thing yourself!

1. Get a grip

Last year I spent two weeks in the Peruvian rainforest without electricity or hot water. When my entire luggage went missing en route, the one thing that prevented me demanding immediate evacuation was the fact that I'd somehow evaded security restrictions and stashed my beloved Tweezermans in my pocket. The oval cut-out and extra wide shape of these stainless steel tweezers make for some seriously precise plucking, while the hand-filed tips effortlessly grip the smallest of hairs.

Tweezerman Wide Grip Tweezer £16; www.hqhair.com

2. Soothe yourself

One of the best eyebrow soothers around comes courtesy of eyebrow experts Shavata. Apply this clear, antibacterial gel after plucking or waxing to banish redness and soothe irritated skin. Finish with a slick of their fabulous Brow Tamer - this click-and-twist applicator is perfect for touch-ups on the go. Apply a small amount for glossy, tamed brows.

Shavata Brow Tamer £14.50; Shavata Soothing Gel £9.99; www.feelunique.com

3. High-brow hair removal

You've heard it before - eyebrows really do frame the face. Australian skincare brand Nads have perfected the art of eyebrow hair removal, and their facial wand is a great way to create the perfect arch. Simply apply the light gel over the hair to be removed, then apply the backing strip and pull off. A no-mess and relatively painless way to remove those pesky strays - and personally, I'll take a little pain over a mono brow any day.

Nads Facial Wand Kit £9.78; www.boots.com

4. Truly eye-opening

The Body Shop brow and lash brush and comb effortlessly tames unruly brows - the synthetic bristles of the groomer are a great way to smooth hairs into place and blend in eyebrow colour, while the handy lash comb instantly de-clumps eyelashes.

The Body Shop Brow and Lash Brush and Comb £7.30

www.thebodyshop.co.uk

5. Fill in the gaps

Boots No7 has scored a hat trick with these three gorgeous eyebrow pencils. The creamy formula provides effortless coverage while the angled tip allows total control. Available in blonde, brown, and deep brown, this smudge-proof pencil is one of my favourite tools when it comes to filling in the gaps - versatile shades offer something for everyone.