Last Reviewed:March 22, 2023 by Gabrielle Marks
How to Wax Eyebrows
Because waxing removes the follicle’s full hair, it is one of the most effective hair-removal methods. But waxing isn’t for everyone. Find out how to wax your eyebrows and points to consider before you begin.
Considerations Before Waxing
The waxing process pulls your hair out of its follicle by the roots. This action also involves the surrounding skin, so there are instances in which waxing is not the best choice for hair removal. For example, some waxing products recommend against use for those with diabetes or circulatory problems. It’s best not to use wax over varicose veins, moles, or warts. Waxes also should be avoided on any skin that is irritated, chapped, or sunburned. You should always test your waxing product in a small area for irritation or an allergic reaction.
For those taking oral retinoids, waxing could cause tearing of the skin and scarring. Waxing shouldn’t be attempted until you have stopped using the product for six months to a year. Topical retinoid users should not wax for at least three to four weeks following the product’s discontinuation.
Choose Your Wax
There are two types of wax that you can use when waxing, hot or cold. Hot wax, also called hard wax, must be heated before use. Hot waxing gives a better result and is the one primarily used in salons.
The second type is cold wax, also called soft wax. This type can be used right out of the jar. It also comes in prepared strips. The main complaint about cold wax is that it tends to be messy and leaves a film on the skin.
Kits are the most convenient as most come with everything you need to wax your eyebrows from start to finish.
Two Days Before Waxing
Exfoliating before waxing removes any dead skin cells that may encourage ingrown hair and the build-up of bacteria. You want to exfoliate at least two days before waxing to avoid irritating the skin. You will also want to moisturize to soften the hair for easier removal. Do not use a moisturizer or any other products on your face on the day you choose to wax.
Prep Your Face
First, pull your hair back into a tight ponytail. Place a headband at the hairline to hold back any stray hairs. Rinse your face with warm water to open your pores for easier hair removal.
Brush your eyebrows up to see if you have any stray hairs that may need trimming. If your waxing kit comes with a pre-wax cleanser, use this now.
Create Your Arch
Shaping your eyebrows is a three-step process. You need to find where the eyebrow should begin, where it should arch, and where it should end.
Your eyebrows should begin in line with the edge of your nostril. You can find this by placing a pencil against your nostril and pointing it straight up toward the ceiling. Where it meets the eyebrow is where the eyebrow should begin.
The perfect arch can be achieved by taking that same pencil and placing it against your nostril. This time move the pencil clockwise until it is in line with the edge of your pupil. Where the pencil hits the eyebrow is where the arch should be.
To find where the eyebrow should end, place the pencil against your nostril and move in clockwise to the corner of your eye. Where the pencil hits the eyebrow is where the eyebrow should end.
Apply the Wax
Apply wax beneath the shape you have drawn in, in the direction of the hair growth. If you apply too much wax, the excess could seep through to the other hair, so be careful when applying the wax not to overdo it.
Apply the strip to the wax, leaving a little bit of excess to use as a tab. Press and smooth the strip in the hair’s direction a few times to ensure the wax is attached to all unwanted hair.
With one quick pull, pull off the strip in the opposite direction of your hair growth and immediately apply pressure to your eyebrow with your hand to help relieve the pain.
Clean Up
Use tweezers to pluck any extra hairs that need it, and apply baby oil to remove any residue remaining on your skin.
Apply an after-wax lotion or an aloe-based gel when you are finished. Use an eyebrow pencil to fill in any gaps, or outline your eyebrows for extra definition.
