Eyebrow threading can be very intimidating for first-timers.

Eyebrow threading is a variation of hair removal that originates from Asia and the Middle East.

An Esthetician takes a thin cotton thread and twists it into a double strand. The thread is swept along the skin. With careful sweeping motions, the unwanted hairs are pulled out by the thread and are lifted by the root.

Threading is the least invasive form of hair removal. Threading targets individual hair and minimizes irritation. There is less excessive pulling on the skin around the eyes and no use of waxing products. This also allows for the threader to shape the brows more precisely. During threading, the client will be asked to stretch their skin around the eyebrows with their hands. It takes between five to seven minutes to thread both eyebrows.

Hair growth varies from person to person, but it typically takes two to six weeks for hairs to start growing back. Over time, the hair that grows back is thinner and takes longer to grow. I typically try to go every other month to have my eyebrows touched up.

But what about eyebrow waxing?

Before I got sucked into the eyebrow threading fad, I would get my brows waxed. For me, there are more downsides to eyebrow waxing than threading.

Eyebrow waxing is typically expensive. My first eyebrow wax ran me $16, and after leaving a tip I was out $20.

Eyebrow threading ranges between $3-$7, and the salon I go to gives you $5 off every few trips. I also have my lip threaded, which is an extra $3.

Eyebrow waxing objectively hurts more. Both waxing and threading are going to be uncomfortable. However, hot wax pulling on my skin while ripping hairs out for me is worse than just ripping hairs out.

My skin is sensitive and always broke out in little bumps after waxing. With threading, my brow area is a little red after but with some cooling gel my skin reacts very well.

Hair removal is very personal and everyone's needs are different. If you do decide to try threading, I hope you reap the benefits of it as I have for the last couple years.