Throughout time, we have become a society that is fixated on the look, shape, color and texture of eyebrows. As it is said, “the eyes are the windows of the soul” and if that is true, eyebrows are the frame. We have been tweezing, waxing and shaving (yes shaving) our brows over the ages and only until recently did eyebrow threading become popular.
Eyebrow threading has actually been around for centuries, but it took awhile to make it out west. Originating in central China and India, it is one of the earliest forms of eyebrow shaping and it has stood the test of time because it actually works. It can provide a precise shape and doesn’t require the time investment that tweezing or plucking out each hair does. In essence, eyebrow threading consists of rolling twisted cotton thread over the hairs, which unceremoniously rips each follicle right out of its pore. We know, it sounds awful. But how much worse can it be than literally pulling out each follicle one, by, one?
Why It’s Popular
Once you try threading, it’s likely you will never go back to any other form of eyebrow hair removal. The results are as close to perfection as you can get, and it lasts longer than many other methods. If you’re already cringing from what sounds like a very painful process, relax. While it isn’t the most pleasurable activity, it likely isn’t the torture you are imagining. The precision is so accurate and there won’t be any “half hairs” left behind, which is a commonality of tweezing. And while you can tweeze between visits, there is nothing like stepping out with a set of freshly threaded eyebrows. Your skin feels smoother, your makeup goes on better and you don’t have to worry about your outgrowth for a while.
How Long Does It Take?
As far as the timing of how long it lasts, it definitely depends on your skin and hair type. It can last anywhere from two to five weeks, but most commonly it’s about four to five weeks. And one of the main benefits is that it takes a very short amount of time to have done. It generally takes about 10 minutes, and if your eyebrows are already in pretty good condition, it takes far less time.
Cost
You’re probably thinking “how much is this miracle threading going to cost me?” And the answer, it’s much similar to the price of waxing. Obviously, if you have more to thread the price may go up, and if you go to a specialized brow bar or salon, you may pay more for the expertise and attention to detail. The estimate is anywhere from $10-$40 not including the tip. Before beginning with a technician, it is recommended to discuss pricing, that way you won’t be surprised when it’s time to pay the bill.
Better Than Waxing?
Another great pro is that it’s gentler on your skin than waxing. Threading only touches the hair follicle, not the skin underneath or surrounding the brow. So, if waxing usually makes you break out or you get an adverse reaction, this is another reason why threading is the best option. Specifically, for those who are acne prone or have sensitive skin. You’ll still experience a bit of redness, but it diminishes far quicker than a waxing redness does. Threading salons typically provide after care, rose water, aloe vera or tea tree gel that helps to calm the area, soothe the skin, and remove any redness quickly. Most salons will do this as a complimentary portion of your threading session.
Consideration
An important note about threading, save it for your facial hair exclusively. Yes, it’s an amazing option for eyebrows, but it can also work on peach fuzz, above the lip area. It’s not ideal for the body because it is so precise, it would likely take forever to complete. And the thought of getting every hair ripped out of your body isn’t very enticing, so leave it to the masters of lasers and waxing.
Conclusion
If you’re used to going to the salon once a week to get waxed, or if you’ve spent way too much time hunched over the bathroom mirror, threading will be an absolute life saver. You will save more money due to less visits, and you will be much happier with the results. This natural and pure form of hair removal requires no chemicals and is safe for nearly any skin type. If you do develop some sort of reaction, it’s always a good idea to consult with your dermatologist to see if you have any underlying skin issues you may not be aware of.
