Window frames of the soul

Alison Mau. Photo / Supplied

Rachel Hunter loves life, Alison Mau is easygoing and John Campbell is understanding - at least, that's what their eyebrows tell us.

Michelle Larsen, owner of Auckland salon Hollywood Eyes, says she can read a person's character based on whether they have a precise, flat or high-arch brow.

She believes we can all read faces - and even eyebrows - if we take the time, but admits she probably pays more attention than most.

"It comes naturally to me to put into words what most of us will pick up in the first two seconds."

Larsen offers eyebrow enhancement, grooming and micropigmentation - a semi-permanent eyebrow tattoo at her Ponsonby business.

She's learned a lot from her clients, who include TV and film stars.

An overplucked brow shows someone is high-maintenance and hard to please, and a soft, messy brow reflects someone who is easygoing.

"The rule of thumb is when people have a very intense eyebrow, they are usually very strong people, very focused. A high angle relates to ambition and a sharp arch shows they are authoritarian."

Lulu Wilcox, one of New Zealand's most in-demand stylists, has Helen Clark, Rachel Hunter and former Sunrise host Carly Flynn among her clients.

She says she's not an eyebrow expert, but years of styling have led to some "cheeky" conclusions.

A straight brow represents a sensitive nature and strong opinions, and a low-set brow depicts someone who is friendly but impulsive.

"A single thick brow over the nose bridge could indicate a bit of a possessive or jealous nature, and if it's high set it could show a discriminating and cautious attitude," she says.

"A person with thick and dark eyebrows is very active and friendly and if they're pointed upwards you could say they've got strong work ethics and will be a leader."

Phoenix Renata, of Phoenix Cosmetics, says eyebrows frame your face and give you a strong sense of character.

Her Auckland salons offer a service which shapes the brow to match the face.

- ADDITIONAL REPORTING: ALICE NEVILLE