In the ever-evolving world of beauty, few areas allow for as much creativity as eyebrows. Over the years, we’ve witnessed a range of unconventional brow trends—everything from feathered and fishtail brows to more eccentric styles like Christmas tree and lightning bolt brows. But just when we thought we’d seen it all, the beauty community introduced a new viral sensation: halo brows.

What Are Halo Brows?

Halo brows are an eyebrow look that loops a single arch across the forehead, connecting the tails of both brows. Instead of defining each brow individually, this trend unites them in a circular, halo-like shape above the eyes. While it might not be a practical choice for everyday makeup, it undeniably makes a bold visual statement.

The style’s distinctive loop has prompted comparisons to artistic face paint, costume makeup, and even avant-garde runway looks. It’s not about enhancing natural features—it’s about challenging norms and showcasing creativity.

The Creator Behind the Trend

This unique look was created by Hannah Lyne, a then 16-year-old beauty influencer from the UK. Known on Instagram as @hannahdoesmakeupp, Lyne was already experimenting with other eyebrow designs when she posted her take on halo brows back in 2018. In her Instagram caption, she explained that the idea was born from a conversation about fishtail brows with a friend.

“I was having a conversation with a friend trying to come up with a new idea for a look, and all of a sudden it came to me that I should connect my brow tails,” Lyne told Pop Sugar.

She emphasized that the look wasn’t a prank or satire, but an earnest attempt at creativity. Speaking to Yahoo Style, Lyne explained, “I just want people to embrace being silly and doing weird, creative looks.”

Lyne’s design quickly went viral, drawing massive attention on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Within hours, beauty fans and critics alike were debating the trend.

Reactions from the Internet

As with many viral trends, public reaction was mixed.

Support and Praise

Some praised the look for its originality and artistic flair. Fans commented:

• “I love it!”
• “All of your looks are so original… Honestly your talent is endless!”
• “How on Earth do you come up with your ideas? They’re so creative and you always execute them so well!”

Beauty publications like Cosmopolitan also expressed fascination, calling halo brows “strangely beautiful” and “heavenly,” appreciating their whimsical and boundary-pushing nature.

Skepticism and Criticism

On the flip side, others were not so impressed. Detractors on Instagram questioned whether the post was meant as a joke:

• “I can’t tell if she’s joking.”
• “Vomits uncontrollably.”
• “Instagram? More like Instaregret.”

Some even claimed they were “deleting Instagram because of this photo.” The term “ridiculous” was frequently used in comment threads across social platforms.

While some of the criticism was harsh, it’s worth noting that experimental beauty has always faced backlash before eventual acceptance.

Halo Brows in the Broader Beauty Landscape

Halo brows are just one of many unconventional eyebrow trends that have emerged from the social media era. Before them, we saw:

• Fishtail brows: where the brow is split in two at the end.
• Feather brows: where hairs are brushed outward to resemble feathers.
• Barbed wire brows, wavy brows, and more.

These looks are often born from playful experimentation. The rise of Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok has allowed beauty influencers to instantly showcase bold concepts to millions of viewers.

Rather than serve as day-to-day styles, such designs usually function as visual statements—works of art meant to push limits and start conversations.

Fact Check: Is This Trend Real or Just for Likes?

Yes, halo brows are real, and the origin of the trend is well-documented. Hannah Lyne posted the look in March 2018, and it was covered by several reputable beauty publications. There’s no indication that the trend was a prank or part of a publicity stunt.

The look did not originate from a brand or company, but from an individual creator experimenting at home. It was later validated through articles in Allure, Cosmopolitan, and Marie Claire, among others.

Though the trend never became mainstream, it sparked a broader discussion about beauty standards and the freedom of self-expression.

Should You Try Halo Brows?

Halo brows may not be the most wearable trend, but that doesn’t mean they lack value. For aspiring makeup artists, performers, or anyone looking to step outside the box, this look offers:

• A creative challenge
• A conversation starter
• A fun project for social media content

If you’re curious, try recreating the look using eyebrow pencils, eyeshadow, or face paint. Just make sure to use washable products, especially for first-time attempts. And remember: makeup is temporary, but self-expression is timeless.

Why Trends Like This Matter

Whether or not you would ever wear halo brows in public, the trend represents something bigger: freedom in beauty.

In today’s beauty culture, more people are embracing the idea that makeup doesn’t have to fit neatly into traditional categories of “pretty” or “polished.” It can be artistic, messy, quirky—or even a little ridiculous.

As Hannah Lyne said herself, “I just want people to embrace being silly and doing weird, creative looks!”

Conclusion

Halo brows may not be the next big thing in everyday makeup, but their rise highlights how beauty continues to evolve in unexpected and expressive ways. Created by a teenager with a creative vision, the trend captured global attention and reminded us that sometimes, the best beauty moments come when we stop taking ourselves too seriously.

Whether you’re inspired to try halo brows or simply fascinated by the creativity behind them, one thing is clear: beauty has no limits.

Sources

• Allure – Halo Brows Are the Most Confusing Brow Trend on Instagram
• Newsner – Halo Brows: New Beauty Trend Is Playful and Loopy
• Bored Panda – 16-Year-Old Girl Creates New ‘Halo Brow’ Trend
• Marie Claire – Instagram Is Obsessed With Halo Brows Right Now
• Cosmopolitan – Meet the Heavenly Halo Brows
• Betches – I Tried The Halo Brow Trend In Public So You Don’t Have To