What is eyebrow threading?

Close up of eyebrow threading

Eyebrow threading is a popular brow shaping technique. However, did you know that threading is an ancient hair removal method that has actually been around for thousands of years?  

Threading uses a cotton thread to remove hairs, plucking the entire thing out from the root. It’s a fast, efficient method of hair removal as it removes lots of hairs in one go. Eyebrow threading can be carried out alone for a tidy up, or in conjunction with other hair removal methods for an ultra-crisp finish. 

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How does eyebrow threading work?

Eyebrow threading involves twisting a piece of thin cotton thread over the skin to remove hairs and shape the brows. Your brow stylist will ask you to pull your skin taut while they twist the thread over your skin. As the thread moves over the skin, it captures any hairs it comes into contact with, removing them from the root. 

How long does eyebrow threading take?

Eyebrow threading can take anything from 5 to 15 minutes. Times will vary as it will depend on whether you are opting for a quick tidy up or if your brows are in need of a bit more shaping.  

How long does eyebrow threading last? 

Eyebrow threading results can last up to 4 weeks. Hairs are removed from the root, which ensures you get that fresh brow feeling for longer. The rate at which hairs grow back will vary depending on your natural growth rate. 

How much does eyebrow threading cost?

The price of eyebrow threading will vary depending on how much shaping is required, your location and the skill level of your stylist. It’s always best to contact your local brow stylist for their prices. 

Eyebrow threading or waxing - which is better?

Both eyebrow waxing and threading are effective hair removal methods. They both remove the hair directly from the root, so results will last for a similar amount of time. 

Waxing can sometimes be a slightly quicker process, making it a little less painful. However, some people are prone to grazing or sensitivity from wax, so threading could be a better alternative for those with sensitive skin. 

During HD Brows treatments, a combination of both waxing and threading is used to get the very best results. HD Brows stylists will begin with precision waxing to create your desired brow shape. They will then thread the brows to pick up any of those pesky fluffy hairs for an ultra-crisp finish. 

Images showing close ups of eyebrow waxing and threading

Eyebrow threading FAQs

Is eyebrow threading painful?

Eyebrow threading can be painful, just like any other form of hair removal. However, this will vary depending on your pain tolerance.  

During the treatment, your brow stylist will ask you to pull the skin taut – this will reduce pulling the skin and help to minimise any pain. As it’s a fast method of pain removal, you’ll find that it doesn’t take very long. 

How is eyebrow threading different from tweezing?

Tweezing is a much lengthier process, as you are removing individual hairs one at a time. Threading allows you to pull out multiple hairs in one go, speeding up the process. 

What kind of thread do they use to thread eyebrows?

The thread used in threading is exactly what it sounds like – cotton thread. A professional will always use a good quality cotton thread that won’t snap or break easily. 

Is it possible to do threading on your own eyebrows? 

Threading is a fiddly treatment, so it’s best to visit a professional for the best results. This allows you to pull your skin taut while the stylist threads, minimising pain. Additionally, threading with a poor technique will result in breaking the hairs, rather than pulling them out. 

Does threading eyebrows make eye dermatitis worse?

It is not recommended that you carry out any hair removal – be it threading, waxing or tweezing – if you are suffering from dermatitis around the brow. Hair removal will only cause further irritation. Be sure to seek treatment and wait for the skin to fully heal before having any brow treatments.  

When the time comes for your next brow appointment, be sure to let your stylist know that you have recently had dermatitis so they can take extra care with your sensitive skin. 

Will my eyebrows grow back at the top after threading? 

Yes, the hairs will grow back after threading or waxing from the top. It’s a common misconception that you shouldn’t remove hairs from above the brow. To get a crisp, clean finish and shape, we actually recommend it.  

Do you get pimples after threading?

There is a chance that you could get pimples after threading. Try to avoid touching the area or applying make up after you’ve had your brows threaded to reduce the risk of irritation or blocking the freshly opened pores. Your stylist will always provide aftercare advice after any brow treatment, so be sure to follow this guidance to a tee. 

Is threading facial hair harmful?

No. In fact, threading is a safe hair removal method as it doesn’t involve using any products, simply a piece of cotton thread. However, it is always recommended that you visit a professional for any threading treatments and follow their strict aftercare recommendations. 

Eyebrow threading on a male client

How to thread eyebrows

The process of threading begins with making a loop out of a piece of cotton thread. This is then hooked onto the left hand and the wrapped around two fingers of the right hand, creating an X shape in the middle. Your stylist will then open and close their fingers and thumb on the right hand to move the thread across the skin. It’s this movement that captures the hairs and plucks them out right from the root.  

Are you looking to thread your eyebrows? Step one is to head to salon finder and search out your local professional. As with any brow treatment, it is strongly recommended that you visit a trained, skilled expert for the best results. 

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