overtweeze

Overtweeze is a colloquial term describing the excessive removal of hair with tweezers, most commonly around the eyebrows. It is not a medical diagnosis, but a description of grooming behavior that can result in cosmetic and dermatologic issues. The term typically refers to repeated plucking beyond what is needed for shape or density, often driven by fashion trends, personal aesthetics, or a preoccupation with facial appearance.

Causes and patterns vary. Some individuals over-tweeze in pursuit of a desired thin or arched brow, while others may develop a habit linked to body image concerns or grooming routines that become compulsive. Repeated plucking can damage hair follicles and alter hair growth cycles, potentially leading to patchy areas, uneven density, or slower regrowth.

Health effects and risks include skin irritation, redness, and folliculitis from frequent manipulation of the skin. In some cases, long-term over-tweezing may contribute to scarring or permanent thinning of the eyebrow area, particularly if the skin is repeatedly traumatized or if regrowth is compromised.

Management and prevention focus on reducing or stopping tweezing to allow hair to regrow. This can involve switching to alternative grooming methods (such as trimming or waxing by professionals), using makeup to fill gaps, and seeking professional advice from a dermatologist or licensed esthetician for skin or hair concerns. If the behavior is compulsive or tied to body image or anxiety, psychological evaluation or therapy may be appropriate.