The Downsides Of Eyebrow Threading

Hair removal can be a tricky business. First off, there are so many options to choose from. Do we go with the wax, the razor, or the laser? Should we throw out our tweezers and follow Cara Delevingne's example and grow out our brows? Or perhaps we just want to thread those out of control edges. If you do choose eyebrow threading as your choice method of hair removal, we're here to give you a more well-rounded picture of what your choice could entail.

If you don't know what eyebrow threading is, don't stress. You are likely not the only one. The technique involves the use of twisted cotton threads to pull unwanted hair out at the root. It sounds harsh, but this technique has been used around the world for hundreds of years in many Asian countries. Is it painful? Not quite. "Our clients tend to describe threading to be an unusual sensation but not painful," says Sabah Feroz, brow expert at BlinkBrowBar in NYC to Glamour.

There is the possibility of irritation and ingrown hairs

On the upside, even those with a low threshold for pain can usually tolerate this hair removal technique easily, however, there are a few downsides to be aware of. According to Healthline, if eyebrow threading is done incorrectly, then you are susceptible to irritation and ingrown hairs. Additionally, while eyebrow threading generally doesn't take too long, waxing is the quickest option if you're short on time. 

A report from The Indian Journal of Dermatology found that some individuals who have had their eyebrows threaded developed a skin condition known as molluscum in their eyebrow region afterwards. While generally not painful, these small red bumps can cause itchiness and discomfort (via American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus). 

General irritation can also occur in the eye region after getting your eyebrows threaded. "A rose water, aloe vera, or tea tree gel helps to calm the area, soothe the skin, and remove any redness quickly," Feroz shares with Glamour.

Like we said before, hair removal is a tricky business. Knowing your options and the downsides of each method will have you feeling more prepared.