Abstract Profile analysis tensiometry (PAT) is presently the most frequently used technique for measuring surface tensions of liquids. The basis of this methodology is however an equilibrium force balance as given by the Gauss–Laplace equation. Therefore, its application under dynamic conditions, i.e. for growing drops or bubbles, is questionable. We discuss the limits of the applicability of PAT under dynamic conditions by using a growing drop configuration equipped with a high speed video camera. The systems studied are the water/air and water/hexane interface. The obtained “dynamic” drop profiles are analyzed by fitting the classical Gauss–Laplace equation. The results are additionally compared with experimental data obtained from capillary pressure tensiometry. The analysis allows defining three different regions related to respective drop expansion rates.