Perfect Face
As the Chinese proverb says, “One can realize the truth of life from a tiny grain of sand, the magic of what little things can do should never be underestimated.” Face threading, an ancient Chinese facial treatment, is one perfect example. With just threads and a pair of skilled hands, Sister Yuen guarantees you a hair-free face.
HK Magazine: How long have you been face threading?
SY: I first watched my granny do it when I was a little girl in China. In the past, brides-to-be had their facial hair removed by face threading because it would make them look whiter and smoother. Hairs are stuck between the threads and plucked out fast but of course, special skills are required. Now I work at a street booth and whenever I am performing my skill, it always attracts a large crowd.
HK: Any other equipment needed besides the threads?
SY: I use a powder called “seven sisters” made from some secret formula to dust my client’s face before the treatment, besides which I just need some cotton threads. In the old days, my granny used linen thread instead. But of course it’s impossible for me to make the thread myself now. After the treatment, I will use a boiled egg to massage my client’s face to reduce the chance of them to get an allergy. The whole thing is very simple and natural-way better than using the chemical products nowadays.
HK: What are the advantages of face threading?
SY: The result of face threading is more long lasting. Because the hair is pulled out from its root, new hair won’t come out as quick. Dead skin and dirty substances stuck in the pores can also be plucked out, too. It can also massage your face muscles and helps with circulation. Hence your skin will look firmer and more radiant. Old ladies aged seventy something who have done face threading throughout their life often have a very fair complexion without any freckles.
HK: Does it hurt?
SY: You may feel a little pain the first time. But because your pores become smaller and smaller over time, it’s easier to get the hair out. Some of my clients hardly feel any pain at all. They are all relaxed and fall asleep while I am performing magic on their faces.
HK: Can you apply the skill on other body parts?
SY: Yes, it works well on arms, legs and armpits. A bride-to-be once came to have her entire back threaded. She wanted her back to look smooth and white on her wedding day.
HK: What kind of clients do you have?
SY: People come to me from all walks of life. There are teenagers and 70-year-old ladies. They also come from a variety of occupations like office ladies, accountants, flight attendants and even famous artists – but I can’t disclose their names here. Most of them are females but guys come, too. I have a male client who comes twice per month regularly.