Eyebrow Waxing: What It is and How It’s Done

What is eyebrow waxing? The act of shaping eyebrows using wax to remove unwanted hairs. What is the purpose of eyebrow waxing? Well groomed eyebrows open up the eyes lending to an overall more youthful and attractive appearance.

The recommended shape for an eyebrow begins at the inner corner or the eye (just north of the tear duct). The arch reaches a peak at the inner edge of the iris and gently slopes downward from there. Stray hairs extending beyond the outer corner of the eye should be removed. The exact thickness, angle and length of a brow is a matter of personal preference; however, all hair between the brows should be removed to prevent growth of a unibrow.

If you are considering eyebrow waxing, step one is to make an appointment with an esthetician.  Your esthetician can offer advice on how to achieve your desired results. Find out what shape works best with your features and learn how to avoid over tweezing. It is best if you bring with you photos of brows you admire.

After your eyebrow waxing consultation, the esthetician will have you either lie down on a table, or lean back in a reclining chair. A bright light will shine on your face and sometimes a magnifier is used to examine your brows. Excessively long brow hairs are trimmed using special scissors.

The eyebrow waxing process is simple. Hot wax is applied in the direction of the hair growth. A paper or cloth is applied on top of the wax and once it adheres, it is torn away in the direction opposite hair growth. You will experience a burning sensation, but if done properly the pain should subside within a matter of seconds. Sometimes a cooling solution will be applied to help ease the burn. This procedure is repeated above the brow, below the brow, between the brows, and on either side. Any remaining stray hairs are removed using tweezers.

After waxing the skin will be tender and red. Most salons offer free makeup touchups after waxing, although for sanitary purposes you might consider bringing your own.

Whether you end up with rounded arches or chiseled angles, eyebrow waxing can dramatically enhance the look of your eyebrows. It only takes a few minutes and results can last up to eight weeks. Regular maintenance with tweezers will keep you looking fabulous between visits.