Conflict of interest: none declared.
1365-2230/asset/olbannerleft.jpg?v=1&s=f0161ed4440483d94e9cf1c506d5969b8f7b4c24)
1365-2230/asset/olbannerright.jpg?v=1&s=79df87c00e498742c94a4074a90504fc795b4f5b)
Eyebrow threading: a popular hair-removal procedure and its seldom-discussed complications
Article first published online: 19 NOV 2008
DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2008.02920.x
© 2008 The Author(s). Journal compilation © 2008 Blackwell Publishing Ltd
Additional Information
How to Cite
Verma, S. B. (2009), Eyebrow threading: a popular hair-removal procedure and its seldom-discussed complications. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 34: 363–365. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2230.2008.02920.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 12 MAR 2009
- Article first published online: 19 NOV 2008
- Accepted for publication 22 January 2008
- Abstract
- Article
- References
- Cited By
Summary
Removal of eyebrow and facial hair by ‘threading’ has gained popularity worldwide. Threading is an ancient Eastern method of removing unwanted facial and eyebrow hair by a technique whereby one end of a cotton thread is held in the mouth of the technician and the other end looped around individual hair shafts, which are then pulled out. This is repeated in quick, successive movements. In India, this is used extensively for shaping and removing eyebrow hair. Threading now enjoys immense popularity with women worldwide, irrespective of race or colour, and is an accepted method for removing eyebrow hair and shaping the eyebrows. However, this popular cosmetic procedure has some significant dermatological side-effects and is not familiar to many dermatologists. To our knowledge, this is the first report of verrucae occurring in threaded eyebrows. Other complications include erythema, folliculitis, pseudofolliculitis, hyperpigmentation, and depigmentation, including koebnerization of vitiligo. This report should alert dermatologists to the possible complications that may arise from this popular aesthetic epilatory procedure.