What is Threading? Is it Right for You?
Threading is one of the oldest hair removal methods on record; it has been used in Turkey and India for thousands of years. While threading effectively removes body hair, it is primarily used as a method of facial hair removal (particularly the eyebrows).
How Does Threading Remove Hair?
A small cotton thread is tightly twisted and rolled over unwanted hair. As the thread rolls back and forth it removes several hairs simultaneously at the follicle level. The end result is similar to tweezing, but much faster because it removes many hairs at once. While this may sound painful — and it certainly can be — minimal discomfort is experienced if done correctly.
Threading Costs, Treatment Time and Results
Eyebrow threading costs roughly $10 and takes less than 5 – 10 minutes if done by a professional. Hair removal lasts for two — four weeks, making eyebrow threading an effective, economic option for hair removal.
Benefits of Threading
There many benefits to threading. First, it is generally less painful than waxing (though subjective) , and while results did not last as long, the quick treatment time and low costs actually make threading less costly and time-consuming than waxing.
Another benefit of threading is that it’s completely natural. No chemicals or additives are used in the threading process (unlike chemical depilatories, waxing, and possibly electrolysis or laser hair treatment).
Because it removes hair at the follicle level, threading is less likely to create ingrown hairs (a common side effect of shaving and waxing).
Does Threading Work on All Hair Types?
Yes. Threading works on all hair types and colors. Unlike lasers — which only work on dark hair — threading even removes light, fuzzy hair (also known as vellus hair).
Summary of Threading Advantages
- Reduces risk of ingrown hairs
- Fast treatment time
- 100% natural
- Relatively inexpensive ($10 per treatment)
- Results last two — four weeks
- Works on all hair and skin types
Diadvantages of Threading
The main disadvantage was threading is finding a qualified professional. Threading is still an unfamiliar concept for hair removal in the Western world, and skilled practitioners outside of major cities can be difficult to come by (though this will become less of an issue as the ratings popularity continues to grow).
While threading does remove body hairs, it is not as efficient or long-lasting as waxing on large areas such as the chest or back. Also, threading only works on flat areas, making it difficult — if not impossible — for removing hair along the joints or pubic area (bikini line).
Threading clients may experience some redness and swelling. Generally, this occurs in a minority of users and only lasts for 30 minutes.
Summary of Threading Disadvantages
- Difficult to find skilled practitioners outside major cities
- Can cause redness and occasional swelling
- Not recommended for large body regions such as the chest and back
- Can be very painful if done incorrectly
- People with severe acne should avoid threading, as it can cause acne ruptures
Eyebrow Threading Video
Eyebrow Threading Pictures
Read how to do facial threading with a step-by-step explanation.
