Published On: 06 June 2025 | Modified On: 11 June 2025
Eyebrow threading is a centuries-old technique that has become one of the most popular and precise methods of facial hair removal today. This article provides a comprehensive guide to eyebrow threading—explaining what eyebrow threading is & how it works.
We cover everything from how long threading lasts to how much it costs, along with essential tips for before and aftercare. You’ll also find expert-backed insights on safety, pros and cons, potential side effects, and answers to common questions like how often you should thread and whether it’s safe for sensitive skin or conditions like dermatitis.
Whether you’re new to threading or looking to deepen your knowledge, this guide has you covered from start to finish.
What Is Eyebrow Threading
Eyebrow Threading is a method of eyebrow hair removal in which a cotton thread is twisted and rolled over unwanted hair, plucking it out from the follicle. The hair is removed from the root, making it an effective technique for hair removal.
Not only does this method help in getting rid of unwanted hair, but it also allows you to shape your eyebrows.
Actually, when the twisted cotton threads come into contact with the hair, the hairs get trapped in the twisted thread. Then, professionals pull the thread along with the hair, which removes the hair from the root.
How Does Eyebrow Threading Work
Eyebrow threading works by targeting the surface hair to remove it from the root while keeping the structure of the brow in mind. In this method, a cotton thread is twisted and rolled over the skin, grabbing the hair strands that are growing out of the skin.
The thread passes close to the hair follicle and pulls the hair out with a strong, controlled force. This force, along with the tight grip of the thread, is strong enough to remove the hair directly from its root — specifically from the dermal papilla. This technique is used to remove specific hairs, one by one, or an entire line of hair from the skin.
This makes threading an effective hair removal method because it removes hair from the root rather than just the surface.
How Much Does Eyebrow Threading Cost
If you get your eyebrows threaded at home, you don’t have to pay much—usually, you only pay for the cost of the thread. However, threading costs vary from salon to salon depending on their location. For example, if you are in Dubai, an eyebrow threading service in Dubai at Pink Beauty Salon costs around 15 AED.
Pink Beauty Salon also offers home service for eyebrow threading in Dubai, which means you don’t need to visit the salon. Just give them a call, and their highly trained professionals will come to your doorstep to provide threading services.
How Do You Do Eyebrow Threading
To do eyebrow threading, start by brushing your eyebrow hairs upward using a clean spoolie or eyebrow brush, and trim only the tips that stick out of your natural shape with small scissors. Then brush the hairs downward and trim any uneven ends that fall outside the brow line.
Cut a 10–11 inch piece of 100% cotton thread and tie the two ends together to make a loop. Insert your index fingers and thumbs into the loop and twist the center 4–7 times to form an “X” shape in the middle. This twisted section is what grabs the hair.
Position the twist just below the unwanted hair, keeping it close to the skin. Open the fingers of one hand while closing the other to move the twist across the hair in the opposite direction of its growth. As the twist rolls over the hair, it catches and pulls it out from the root. Repeat carefully across the area for clean, defined brows.
How Long Does Eyebrow Threading Take
Eyebrow threading typically takes about 5 to 15 minutes to complete. The exact time depends on the thickness of your brows, the amount of hair being removed, and the skill of the person performing the threading.
How Long Does Eyebrow Threading Last
Eyebrow threading typically lasts 2 to 6 weeks, depending on individual hair growth cycles, skin type, and post-treatment care.
Since the hair is removed from the follicular root, repeated threading can weaken the dermal papilla, leading to finger regrowth over time. Proper exfoliation and hydration can also help maintain smoother skin and extend results.
How Long Do Eyebrows Take to Grow Back After Threading
Eyebrow hair typically takes 2 to 6 weeks to fully grow back after threading, depending on your hair growth cycle and skin type. Because threading removes hair from the follicular root, repeated sessions weaken the dermal papilla, causing hairs to regrow fingers and sparser over time.
How Often Should You Get Your Eyebrows Threaded
You should get your eyebrows threaded every 2 to 3 weeks, as this time frame allows enough hair regrowth for effective removal while keeping your brows looking neat.
The ideal frequency depends on your hair growth rate, skin sensitivity, and grooming goals. Regular threading can weaken the hair follicles, resulting in finer, slower regrowth over time.
Is Eyebrow Threading Painful
Eyebrow threading can be painful, but the level of discomfort varies based on your pain tolerance and skin sensitivity. To minimize pain, your stylist will often ask you to pull the skin taut, which reduces skin pulling and makes the process smoother. Though some discomfort is normal, many find it more tolerable than other hair removal methods.
Is Threading Safe
Threading is considered a safe and widely accepted method for eyebrow hair removal. Compared to tweezing, waxing, or laser, threading offers a low-cost, convenient option with minimal risk of complications.
Moreover, in threading, no chemicals are used—only 100% cotton threads are applied. This makes threading a natural and gentle method that reduces the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions.
When performed properly, it causes negligible irritation and helps create a precise, clean hairline with little to no damage to the skin.
Pros of Eyebrow Threading
No Chemical Involved
The biggest benefit of eyebrow threading is that it doesn’t involve any chemicals. Only a simple cotton thread is used, unlike other hair removal methods that often require chemical-based products, which can cause irritation for some people.
Better Than Waxing
Eyebrow threading is widely regarded as a safer alternative to waxing, particularly for people with sensitive skin or those using retinol-based products, as waxing can lead to burns, irritation, or skin damage.
Unlike waxing, threading does not involve heat or chemicals and is less likely to cause breakouts or ingrown hairs. It’s suitable for all skin types, and when done by an experienced professional, the technique uses gentle, controlled movements that remove hair precisely with minimal discomfort or trauma to the skin.
Precise
If you’re aiming for sharp, well-defined brows, threading is one of the most precise hair removal methods available. A skilled threader can remove individual hairs or entire rows with exact control, allowing for clean lines and symmetrical shaping.
Many professionals also use trimming scissors to refine the final look, ensuring the shape is perfectly tailored to your features.
Fast & Efficient
Threading is a quick process, typically taking just 5 to 15 minutes, making it ideal for people with busy schedules. It removes multiple hairs at once with precision, unlike tweezing which targets one hair at a time.
The method offers long-lasting results with minimal effort, making it both time-saving and effective.
Cons of Eyebrow Threading
Lead To Complications
One of the potential cons of eyebrow threading is that, although generally safe, it can occasionally lead to complications. According to Shyam B. Verma, rare cases such as verrucae (warts) have been reported in threaded areas.
Other possible side effects include erythema (redness), folliculitis, pseudofolliculitis, hyperpigmentation, depigmentation, and even Koebnerization in individuals with vitiligo. These risks highlight the importance of hygiene and professional technique in this popular aesthetic procedure.
Potential Redness
A common but temporary side effect of threading is redness or mild irritation around the treated area. This typically occurs due to the friction of the thread against the skin but usually fades within a few hours.
Applying a cold compress or soothing aloe vera gel can help calm the skin quickly. Proper aftercare ensures minimal discomfort and faster recovery.
Painful for Beginner and Sensitive Skins
Threading can feel painful or uncomfortable, especially for first-timers or those with sensitive skin. The sensation of multiple hairs being pulled out at once can cause a stinging feeling.
However, the discomfort usually decreases over time as the skin gets used to the process. Keeping the skin taut and choosing an experienced threader can help reduce pain significantly.
Does Threading Eyebrows Make Eye Dermatitis Worse?
Yes, threading can worsen eye or eyelid dermatitis, as it involves friction and hair removal that may further irritate already sensitive or inflamed skin.
Eye dermatitis, also called eyelid dermatitis, is a temporary skin condition that causes redness, itching, swelling, and irritation around the eyes. It often results from exposure to allergens, irritants, or harsh products, leading to inflammation of the delicate skin on and around the eyelids.
If you’re experiencing dermatitis around the brow area, it’s best to avoid all forms of hair removal, including threading, waxing, or tweezing, until the skin is fully healed. Once recovered, inform your brow stylist about your condition so they can take extra care during the treatment to avoid triggering another flare-up.
PreCare Tips For Eyebrow Threading
Before your eyebrow threading appointment, it’s important to keep the area clean to prevent irritation or infection. Gently exfoliate your skin a day or two before to remove dead skin cells and allow for a smoother threading experience.
Avoid applying heavy makeup or harsh chemical products on your face prior to the appointment, as these can increase skin sensitivity and cause reactions during threading. Following these simple steps helps ensure the best results with minimal discomfort.
AfterCare Tips for Eyebrow Threading
After threading, soothe your skin by applying aloe vera gel to reduce redness and irritation. Using an ice pack or cold compress can help calm any swelling or discomfort. You can also gently dab rose water for its natural anti-inflammatory properties.
To protect the sensitive skin around your brows, always apply sunscreen before going outside. Following these aftercare steps will help your skin heal quickly and keep your brows looking fresh and healthy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, eyebrow threading is a safe, precise, and chemical-free method for shaping and removing unwanted hair. It offers long-lasting results, minimal discomfort, and is suitable for all skin types when performed by a trained professional.
With proper pre- and aftercare, you can enjoy beautifully defined brows while minimizing irritation or side effects. Whether you’re a beginner or a regular client, threading remains a reliable choice for clean, well-shaped eyebrows.
