For first-timers, eyebrow threading can be little daunting. But, trust us when we say that it’s not as scary as it seems. Once you know what to expect, you can stop stressing about how much it’ll hurt and start rushing to make an appointment. After all, if you want beautiful, well-defined brows, threading is a great way to go about it. So, before you book your next brow wax or pull out the tweezers, take a look at this guide to all you need to know about eyebrow threading. From what it is and how much pain it will cause to pre- and post-treatment tips, this information will put you on the path to better eyebrows with complete confidence.
What is Eyebrow Threading?
Threading is a method of hair removal that’s perfect for areas of the face, such as the eyebrows. The technique has been used in Asia for centuries and consists of rolling twisted cotton thread over unwanted hairs. As this happens, the cotton rips each follicle right from its pore. Due to its precision, threading is ideal for use on the eyebrows and face, but as it is time-consuming, the technique is not often used anywhere else on the body.
Threading is also one of the gentlest types of hair removal. As the cotton only pulls the hairs, your skin doesn’t get caught in the crossfire, meaning that it’s an ideal option for anyone with sensitive, irritable, or acne-prone skin. But, even though it is gentle, you’re still removing hairs. So, you can expect a little redness and if your skin is extra sensitive, possibly minor irritation.
Benefits of Eyebrow Threading
Although eyebrow threading is not exactly a fun treatment to undergo, many women continue with the process because of the results. The biggest advantage from threading is undeniably the beautiful, defined brows that you’ll find yourself with after the treatment. As the method is all about precision, the process can remove even the shortest unwanted hair from its follicle. As such, it’s the ideal option for achieving perfect eyebrows and won’t leave behind half-grown stray hairs, such as other hair removal methods. Just make sure you choose an experienced technician. A tech who knows what they’re doing will have complete control over which hairs are removed and which are left behind. So, if you want those perfectly arched brows of your dreams, threading is the way to go.
Another benefit of threading is that the maintenance is easier than with other methods of hair removal. As the process is incredibly precise, it can tackle even the shortest and finest of hairs. As such, threading can remove all your unwanted strands at one time, unlike tweezing which often leaves partly-grown follicles behind. Therefore, as your hairs are removed at the same time, they’ll grow back at the same time, meaning that fewer touch-ups are necessary. To keep your brows looking defined and divine, all you’ll need to do is have them threaded every five weeks and touch up at home with tweezers every two to three.
Does Eyebrow Threading Hurt?
If you’ve never tried eyebrow threading before, it may be because you’re concerned that it’ll hurt. Don’t worry, though. You’re not alone. Fear of how much threading will hurt is one of the biggest deterrents for potential clients. The truth is though, this method of hair removal isn’t nearly as painful as many people believe it to be. In fact, many customers tend to describe threading as an unusual sensation or uncomfortable, but not painful. Others say that it feels like tweezing multiple hairs at once. Either way, it won’t be pleasant, but you’ll still be able to handle it.
If you’re still concerned about how it will feel on your skin, let the technician know before you begin. You can even ask them to first do a trial on the fine hairs on the back of your hand so that you can get accustomed to the sensation. Once you see that it doesn’t hurt on your hand, you’ll be feeling confident enough to move up to your brows.
How to Thread Eyebrows
There’s no need for you to feel daunted by the prospect of getting your brows threaded for the first time. The process is rather simple, and your technician will help you through it. Before you start, just be sure to speak up if you want a particular shape or are trying to grow out any areas. Doing so will ensure that you get the results that you want without any nasty surprises when you look in the mirror.
While working, the technician can choose to thread one hair at a time or do a whole line. As such, they have incredible control and can add great definition to your brows. Just remember to try not to flinch during the process, or you may end up with an unwanted bald patch. You may also be asked to pull your eyelids in opposite directions throughout the threading. Doing so will ensure that the skin is taut and that the area is easy to work on. If you’re unsure what to do, just ask your technician for a little guidance. Throughout the process, you may also experience random sneezing and eye watering. This reaction is a natural side effect and nothing about which to worry.
Eyebrow Threading Tips
- Don’t apply much makeup before having your eyebrows threaded as it’ll probably become smudged.
- If you’re scared about how threading will feel, you can ask your technician to do a trial on the back of your hand first so that you can get used to the sensation.
- After having your eyebrows threaded, apply a cooling gel, such as aloe vera, to soothe the area.
- Don’t use concealer or foundation after having your brows threaded as it can clog the open pores and cause spots.
- Two to three weeks after threading, clean up your brows by tweezing at home if you feel the need.
- Plan to have your brows threaded every five weeks to maintain your defined shape.