Threading has been out there for centuries, deriving from asia and the Middle-east and in recent times threading has become really populaand. I remember when I first came to Ireland all those donkeys years ago, no one was threading. When I started practicing in Ireland about 10 years ago, I was the first one in mayo practicing the art. So what’s all the fuss about? I have looked through the questions that clients have asked me in the past about threading…
How does eyebrow threading work?
Well to be honest, it’s just cotton thread and the way I twist the thread, I suppose it’s called the ‘nack’. The thread is held in a specific way, I move my hand over the brows with the twist of the thread and walla, brows are beaut.
How is threading different to waxing or tweezing?
There are a couple of reasons:
First one is 100% precision. Threading is very precise and it allows me to have greater control to where the hairs are removed from, giving you a really natural look. The thread enables me to indicate what hairs you want to keep giving the perfect shape every time. Compared to waxing where block hair can be taken away.
The second big reason is skin. Threading is far more delicate and better for our skin. Threading doesn’t pull the skin like waxing or tweezing can. Waxes involve heat and chemicals that can cause some skin types to break out more, it can also cause a lot of redness and peeling especially for those using retinol or have sensitive skin. While tweezing is less damaging on the skin, accidents can happen with poking, pulling and even scraping the skin. If the tweezers are not clean, it can lead to breakouts and infections on the skin.
What parts of the body can be threaded?
Potentially, anywhere there is hair :) The most popular part of the face is the eyebrow however you can thread your chin, upper lip, sides of face, cheek and forehead, sometimes even the side of the nose.
Does eyebrow threading hurt?
Well? What can i say to this one? :) The short answer is yes, any type of hair removal will hurt slightly. However most get used to it over time and some find it relaxing.
How much does threading cost?
That depends on what state your brows are in :) Usually between €15 -€25.
How long does it last?
Everyone has a different growth rate so it really depends. Generally it can last from 2 weeks to 2 months. My recommendation would be to keep on top of your brows so you don’t need to get the full scale shaping done at every session (when we get back to browing!)
Does threading work for all skin types?
100% yes. As threading doesn’t use chemicals or damage the skin it can be used on those who are on medication that causes sensitive skin. It is even great for those who are prone to breakouts after waxing. Threading is also amazing for getting rid of the tiniest hair, for example, small chin hairs or downy hair on the sides of the face, even for those tiny hairs you can’t get to on the eyebrows ( You the ones in your eye socket!)
There are a small amount of exceptions, if you have got a chemical peel done, had microdermabrasion done or cosmetic surgery, i would avoid any hair removal until your skin has settled or healed.
Are there any side effects to threading?
With any type of hair removal there may be side effects, redness and breakouts are the main ones. However with threading redness usually subsides within an hour and if you are prone to breakouts generally i would use a healing balm straight after treatment.
If you really want to avoid breakouts, avoid putting any makeup on for about 24 hours. The reason for this is our pores are wide open after hair removal so any dirt that goes in will inevitably cause breakouts.
How should you prepare for your procedure?
The hairier the better :) as this gives me a great canvas to work on however don't worry if you have short stubbly hair as these can be removed too. If you have a picture of the type of brows you like, bring it in with you.
How long does the procedure take?
Usually takes between 15 - 30 minutes depending on hair and sensitivities.
Can you thread at home?
Of course, give it a go. Here’s a youtube video of how to :)
Munaza Gilmore
Threading and BrowExpert | Treatments | Teaching
