Eyebrow threading can sting a little, but for most people it is quick and very manageable. You feel a fast tugging or pinching as the thread lifts the hairs, and each pass is over in a moment. How much you feel depends on your skin, the area and the day. A full brow takes about 10 minutes at Kurves.
Does eyebrow threading hurt?
Some people feel it and some barely do. When Fariyal Pirani opened Kurves Threading Studio in 2017, the Farragut Press asked her this exact question. Her answer: “To be honest, a few people, yes; a few people no. Everybody’s different.”
That is still the most honest answer we can give. Nobody can promise you a painless appointment. What we can tell you is what it feels like, why, and what helps.
What does threading feel like?
It feels like a quick series of small pinches or tugs. As Fariyal explained to the Farragut Press, the thread is doubled, twisted and rolled over the hairs you want removed, and it lifts them out from the root. Cleveland Clinic describes it as a tugging, burning sensation that can be stronger on particularly sensitive areas of the face.
Many people find it less painful than waxing. Cleveland Clinic explains why: the hair is removed so fast that your pain receptors can’t keep up. Each pass is over in a moment.
Which areas feel the most?
Thinner, more sensitive skin tends to feel more. Cleveland Clinic notes the sensation is often stronger where the specialist is working on particularly sensitive areas of the face. Everyone is different, so notice what feels fine for you and what doesn’t. If one spot is uncomfortable, say so. A short pause is always fine.
Why does it hurt more on some days?
Your skin is not the same every day. A few things can make it more sensitive:
- Retinoid or retinol products. Cleveland Clinic’s dermatologist advises stopping them five to seven days before threading, because they make skin very sensitive.
- Sun. Cleveland Clinic lists sun exposure as an irritant to avoid after threading. Skin that already feels sunburned will usually feel more.
- Irritated skin. If your skin is already red, peeling or broken out where you want threading, it can be worth waiting until it settles.
If you use prescription skin treatments, such as retinoids or acne medication, ask your doctor or dermatologist before threading. This is general information, not medical advice.
How can I make threading hurt less?
A few simple habits can make the appointment easier:
- Plan around your skin care. Pause retinoid and retinol products for five to seven days beforehand, as Cleveland Clinic suggests, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
- Cleanse gently with cold water. Cleveland Clinic’s dermatologist suggests cold water before and after your appointment to help reduce irritation.
- Relax your face and breathe slowly. Many people find it easier when they aren’t braced for it.
- Keep still and follow your threader’s lead. You may be asked to hold the skin smooth with your fingers. That helps the thread move cleanly.
- Come back regularly. Cleveland Clinic notes that hairs become less dense and thinner with repeated threading sessions.
- Speak up. If you need a pause, ask for one.
Will my skin be red afterwards?
Usually a little, and it settles. Cleveland Clinic says you can expect some redness, irritation and possibly even moderate swelling in the hours after threading. The AAD describes threading as causing little irritation, which is why it is often an option for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
To help your skin settle, Cleveland Clinic suggests:
- Try not to touch the brow area.
- Skip swimming pools and hot tubs for a bit.
- Avoid sun exposure where you can.
- Go makeup-free for a few days if possible.
If redness, swelling or bumps get worse instead of better, or the area looks infected, contact your doctor. Cleveland Clinic notes the risk of infection is low, but it exists.
Is it worse the first time?
It can be. Your first visit is new, and if your brows haven’t been shaped in a while there may simply be more hair to remove. Once you know what to expect, it is easier to relax. If you are nervous, tell Fariyal at the start. To confirm Does Fariyal offer aloe or a soothing gel after threading, and does she clean the brow area first?
Is threading worth it if I’m worried about pain?
For most people, yes. It is quick, it gives a clean brow shape, and the sting fades fast. A brow appointment is about 10 minutes and $15 at Kurves, so trying it once is a small step. If it isn’t for you, you’ll know quickly.
Want to compare methods first? Read threading vs waxing for eyebrows. Wondering when you’ll need to come back? See how long does eyebrow threading last?
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