Threading: an alternative facial grooming technique

Over the past few years, a new technique for facial hair grooming has taken North America by storm with brow bars popping up at malls and specially trained beauticians at salons offering this new service: Threading.

Never heard of it? It’s a centuries-old Persian technique of facial hair grooming that involves using a twisted cotton string to individually remove hair by plucking each strand of hair from the root. Popular in South Asia and the Middle East, it is ideal for areas that require precision, including eyebrows, the upper lip, and even general facial hair.

As with waxing, the results last two to three weeks, and the hair grows back finer and thinner. This method is ideal for those with sensitive skin, since the thread does not come in direct contact with skin. What’s more, because the process involves removing each hair individually, the results have the same precision and definition as when you tweeze your brows.

But that’s not all! Threading doesn’t cause irritation or burning, a peril many people face when they opt for waxing. It may cause temporary redness in your skin, but that’s normal, and the redness will fade away quickly. Unlike waxing, you can get your touch-up the moment the hair grows above the skin.

Since threading only involves thread and a pair of experienced hands, the odds of spreading germs or infections are slim. That said, it’s imperative that your threader have clean hands and use clean thread. A 2007 study in the journal Clinical and Experimental Dermatology cited several cases of small raised bumps on the skin called ‘threading warts’ that formed as a result of poor practices. The authors in a 2008 study, published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, advised that those interested in this technique should visit certified beauticians or beauty parlors.

Before trying a place, try to look up online reviews for complaints or accolades by customers. If you haven’t had the chance to look up reviews, just watch the employees at the establishment to get an idea. Threading is a quick process (it should take no longer than five minutes) and as such, you can always watch your beautician to make sure she uses clean thread in between customers.

In terms of pricing, the cost varies anywhere from $5 to $50. More expensive does not always mean better. Shop around for licensed beauticians to find one who gives you the best shape and the fewest nicks. If you decide to give threading a shot, make sure not to apply moisturizers, cleansers or makeup directly to the threaded area for at least two hours, as the skin is vulnerable to bacteria due to opened pores.