Terminal Hair– longer and thicker hair that is pigmented and fully developed, usually coarse and arises from vellus hair (eyebrows, underarms, genital area, legs etc).
Vellus and terminal hair are the types usually treated during cosmetic brow procedures.
Key Points:
- Genetic background influences terminal hair thickness, colour and density
- Most terminal hairs transition from vellus hairs during puberty
- Terminal hair covers 30% of our bodies
Example: Vellus hair and terminal hair brow correction
In the image below a hybrid brow and shape correction using mapping string has been performed. On close examination of the before photo there is significant vellus hair surrounding most of the brow, this client presents with a classic rounded brow shape which can be easily corrected by including some of the vellus hair through the mid section of the brow in the new shape. Applying a brow dye during the treatment assist in a seamless blend between the thicker terminal hair and the fluffy vellus hair.
Considerations:
- Vellus hair growth varies greatly from person to person, mature clients usually have more usable vellus hair growing around their brows
- Following a shape correction where you have included vellus hair to create the new shape its important to note on the clients file for their next visit to ensure you continue to allow this hair to grow in the right areas. Following 3-4 regular visits following the same protocol and technique the new brow shape will require much less effort to maintain.
- Client education is key when it comes to brow correction, recommending your client to avoid any at home brow maintenance will prevent over tweezing or trimming which can take you and the client back to square one.
