Can eyebrow grooming cause eyebrow pimples?

Whether or not you decide pull out, wax or thread, pimples around eyebrows this is a real thing that can happen as a result. We consulted with Dr. Dhawal Bhanusali, a New York certified dermatologist to help us get to the bottom of why do pimples appear on eyebrows after Depilation and what to do with it.

Why do rashes appear on the eyebrows after hair removal?

Before we dive into the steps to take to prevent brow blemishes, it's important to understand why this reaction is so common. “Like shaving and razor burn, trauma to any area can cause your skin to react,” says Dr. Bhanusali. “Combined with the possibility ingrown hair, popular methods of removing eyebrow hair can cause some to develop nasty pimples." 

What other factors can lead to acne on the eyebrows?

Even if you never remove the hair in this area, you can still develop acne, which is likely due to the use of comedogenic cosmetics, which easily clog pores. Between the gels, powders, and pencils you use to shape your brows, it's important to always check that the label says they're non-comedogenic. It is also very important to cleanse your brows every night in the same way you cleanse your skin, which will help remove the product and any excess oil that may be left on the skin and lead to clogged pores. We recommend a mild facial cleanser such as CeraVe Moisturizing Facial Cleanser.

How to prevent pimples on eyebrows

Before removing any brow hairs, exfoliate your face, focusing on the brow area or where the treatment is being done. This can help ensure that bacteria and dirt do not enter your pores and cause blockages during the removal process. We recommend using a chemical exfoliant such as L'Oréal Paris Glycolic Acid Toner, as it is gentler on the skin than physical exfoliators. 

It is important to resist the urge to touch your eyebrows with your fingers after hair removal. If your hands are dirty, bacteria can get on your face and clog your pores, which can lead to breakouts. If you notice any pimples after grooming, apply spot processing contains acne-fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or sulfur. Vichy Normaderm SOS Acne Rescue Spot Corrector dries up pimples with sulfur and gently exfoliates with glycolic acid.