Threading
Hair removal using twisted cotton thread
Threading is a hair removal technique from India and Iran that uses twisted thread to pluck follicles. It offers precise eyebrow shaping and is gentler on skin than waxing, though it can be painful.
- Originated in India and Iran centuries ago
- Uses twisted thread to pluck hair rows
- Parastu Amiri introduced it to Europe in 1980s
- Taiwanese wan mian symbolises a fresh start
- More precise than waxing for eyebrow shaping
What it is
Threading removes unwanted hair using a thin cotton or polyester thread. The practitioner doubles and twists the strand, then rolls it across the skin. This action traps hairs and pulls them from the follicle. Unlike tweezers that target single strands, this method lifts short rows at once. It allows for sharp, defined eyebrow shapes. The technique works well on the face and upper lip. It is not suitable for coarse hair on arms or legs due to the volume involved.
History and origin
This practice began centuries ago in the Middle East and South Asia. In Taiwan, women undergo facial threading before Lunar New Year. This ritual symbolises a fresh start for the festive season. Iranian beautician Parastu Amiri introduced the method to Germany in the 1980s. From there, it spread across Europe. Immigrants from South Asia and the Middle East established studios in major US cities during the late 1980s. Its popularity has grown steadily in Western nations since then.
What it means
In some cultures, threading marks significant life events. It often serves as a rite of passage, such as preparation for marriage. The Taiwanese tradition of wan mian represents renewal and hope. Today, it is valued for cosmetic precision rather than just ritual. Many choose it for its ability to create clean lines without chemicals. It remains a key part of beauty routines in its regions of origin.
Styling and care
Practitioners use three main techniques: hand, mouth, and neck methods. The mouth method is considered the fastest and most precise. Correct pressure minimises pain, which can occur when multiple hairs are removed simultaneously. It provides more control than waxing for eyebrow architecture. Regular upkeep is needed as hair regrows. It is best suited for fine facial hair rather than thick body hair.
In culture
Threading has moved from traditional communities to mainstream western beauty. South Asian-owned salons in the US have become community hubs. The Guardian reported a fifty percent rise in UK online searches for the service in 2015. It is now a standard option for eyebrow maintenance globally. The technique preserves cultural heritage while adapting to modern aesthetic demands.
Questions people ask about Threading
How does threading remove hair?
A doubled and twisted cotton or polyester thread rolls over the skin. It traps unwanted hairs and pulls them out from the follicle level. This allows for the removal of short rows of hair at once.
Is threading painful?
It can be painful because several hairs are removed simultaneously. However, proper technique and correct pressure can minimise this discomfort. It is generally considered gentler on the skin than waxing.
Where did threading originate?
The technique began in the Middle East and South Asia. It has been used for centuries in countries like India and Iran. It later spread to Western countries through immigration and professional introduction.
Can threading be used on legs?
No, it is not a good method for arms or legs. The hair in these areas is typically too coarse and abundant. Threading is best suited for fine facial hair and precise eyebrow shaping.
Good reading and sources
- Threading (epilation) on WikipediaEncyclopedia
- More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
- Wikidata recordOpen data
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Threading (epilation)", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). EveryFaceShape rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes, and figures change over time. Nothing here is investment or buying advice. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-11-15.
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