Waxing vs Threading - Which one is better for your brows?

Eyebrows do more than frame the face they express mood, style, and personality. With so many grooming methods available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Two of the most common techniques waxing and threading have loyal fans and specific benefits. But when it comes to shaping your brows, which method truly fits your skin type, hair texture, and lifestyle?

Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide which one suits you best.

What Is Eyebrow Waxing?

Eyebrow waxing uses a resin-based wax that’s applied to the skin and then quickly pulled away, removing the hair from the root. This can be done using either:

• Soft wax (applied with a strip)
  
• Hard wax (which hardens and is removed on its own)
  

Waxing is a popular option for those looking to remove multiple hairs at once and achieve a clean shape in less time.

What Is Eyebrow Threading?

Threading is an ancient hair removal technique that originated in South Asia and the Middle East. It uses a twisted cotton thread to trap and lift hair out of the follicle. The practitioner glides the thread across the skin, removing hairs in a straight, clean line.

Threading offers precision and is often preferred for detailed brow shaping, especially around the arch.

Pros and Cons: Waxing vs Threading

To make a fair comparison, let’s explore the advantages and drawbacks of both methods.

Waxing Pros

• Removes multiple hairs at once, making it quicker for fuller brows
  
• Results can last up to 3–4 weeks
  
• Can remove fine and coarse hairs
  

Waxing Cons

• Can cause redness or minor irritation
  
• Not suitable for clients using retinoids or acne medications
  
• Potential for ingrown hairs if done incorrectly
  

Threading Pros

• No heat or chemicals ideal for sensitive or acne-prone skin
  
• Allows for very precise shaping, especially on thinner brows
  
• Minimal contact with the skin, reducing post-treatment bumps
  

Threading Cons

• Can be more painful for first-timers, especially near the brow bone
  
• Slightly slower than waxing for thicker brows
  
• Requires a skilled technician for clean results
  

Which Method Is Better for Your Skin Type?

Choosing between waxing and threading often comes down to your skin’s sensitivity. Waxing involves some heat and adhesion to the skin, which can trigger reactions in people with:

• Eczema
  
• Rosacea
  
• Acne-prone skin
  

Threading is typically a safer option for those with sensitive or delicate skin. Since it only touches the hair and not the surrounding skin, it reduces the risk of breakouts and irritation.

Hair Type and Regrowth

The effectiveness of each method can also depend on your natural hair type:

• Waxing works well on medium to thick hair and tends to reduce regrowth over time with consistent use.
  
• Threading is better suited for finer hair and can catch the short, barely visible strands that waxing may miss.
  

Both methods pull hair from the root, so you can expect regrowth in about 3 to 5 weeks. However, threading may need to be repeated slightly more often for those with faster-growing hair.

Pain Level: What to Expect

Pain is subjective, but here's how most clients describe the sensation:

• Waxing: Quick pull and sting, followed by mild redness that fades within hours.
  
• Threading: A series of pinches or tugs that feel sharp but manageable, especially around the brow bone.
  

If you’re very pain-sensitive, ask your technician to apply a numbing gel beforehand.

Hygiene and Safety

Both methods require hygiene awareness, especially when performed in a salon setting. Here’s how they differ:

Waxing Safety Tips:

• Ensure that fresh wax is used for each client
  
• No double-dipping each stick should be used only once
  
• Skin should be cleansed and dried before wax application
  

Threading Safety Tips:

• The thread should be taken fresh from the spool
  
• Practitioners should use proper hand sanitation or wear gloves
  
• Thread should not be held in the mouth (a common outdated practice)
  

Pricing and Accessibility

While prices vary by salon and city, here’s a general idea for Toronto and Mississauga:

Threading is usually slightly more affordable and widely offered in salons with trained staff. Waxing, though slightly pricier, may save time for clients with denser brows.

Client Preferences at Own It Beauty Bar

At Own It Beauty Bar, we offer both waxing and threading because we know that one method doesn't fit all. Many of our clients in Toronto and Mississauga prefer threading for its precision and skin-friendliness. Meanwhile, others opt for waxing when they want quick, smooth results and don't have overly sensitive skin.

Our trained professionals take the time to understand your goals, face shape, and skin type before recommending the best option.

How to Choose the Right Brow Method for You

Here are some quick pointers to help guide your decision:

Choose Waxing If You:

• Want a faster appointment
  
• Have medium to thick brows
  
• Don't have sensitive or acne-prone skin
  

Choose Threading If You:

• Have delicate or sensitive skin
  
• Need precise shaping around the arch
  
• Prefer a chemical-free hair removal method
  

Still unsure? Try both at different times and track how your skin reacts, how quickly the hair grows back, and how long the results last.

Book Your Brow Session at Own It Beauty Bar

Whether you’re heading to an event or just keeping your brows in shape, our expert artists are here to make sure your brow game is on point. With locations in Toronto and Mississauga, it's easy to find a time that fits your schedule.

We recommend booking a consultation if you’re new to brow shaping. Our team will walk you through the options and help you choose what’s best for your skin and style.

Conclusion

Both waxing and threading offer excellent results when done correctly. It really comes down to your skin type, hair texture, and personal comfort. While waxing delivers speed and smoothness, threading excels in precision and gentleness. Whichever path you take, professional care is key.

At Own It Beauty Bar, we believe your brows should reflect your individuality and we're here to help you achieve that.

Quick FAQs

Q: Which lasts longer waxing or threading?

A: Both last around 3–5 weeks, but waxing might give a slightly longer result for thick brows.

Q: Is threading better for acne-prone skin?

A: Yes. Threading doesn’t involve heat or chemicals, making it a safer option for sensitive skin.

Q: Can I wax or thread if I’m on skincare treatments?

A: If you're using retinoids or acne medications, threading is the safer choice. Always inform your technician beforehand.

Q: Is brow waxing suitable for thin brows?

A: It can be, but threading offers more control and is often recommended for delicate shaping.

Q: Do I need to grow out my brows before threading or waxing?

A: Yes. Hair should be at least 1/8 inch long for either method to be effective.

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