What Is Exfoliation? How to Prepare Your Skin for Eyebrow, Lash & Skincare Services

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin to reveal newer, healthier-looking skin underneath. This can be done through physical exfoliation, such as facial scrubs, cleansing brushes, washcloths, or dermaplaning, or through chemical exfoliation, which uses ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, retinols, and enzymes to increase skin cell turnover.

When done properly, exfoliation can help improve skin texture, unclog pores, brighten the complexion, and allow skincare products to absorb more effectively. However, over-exfoliating or exfoliating too close to eyebrow and lash services can make the skin more sensitive, increasing the risk of irritation, redness, and discomfort during treatments such as eyebrow threading, brow dye, and brow lamination.

Avoid Before Your Appointment

For at least 3–5 days before your appointment, avoid applying the following products, as they can cause microscopic irritation that may not be visible to the eye. When threading is performed on already sensitized skin, it can increase redness, irritation, and discomfort.

• Retinol / Retinoids

• Tretinoin

• Adapalene

• Glycolic Acid (AHA)

• Lactic Acid (AHA)

• Salicylic Acid (BHA)

• Benzoyl Peroxide

• Chemical peels

• Silicone cleansing tools

• Exfoliating gloves

• Facial scrubs