Called khite in Arabic and fatlah in Egyptian, threading is s a less common method of hair removal in the West, though it has been growing in popularity over the last few years. The method removes hair at the root and is used primarily on facial hair. Rows of stray hairs are pulled out with twists of cotton thread.

The practitioner holds one end of the cotton thread in his or her teeth and the other in the left hand. The middle is looped through the index and middle fingers of the right hand. The practitioner then uses the loop to trap a series of unwanted hairs and pull them from the skin, by twisting the thread. There are also devices available which can hold the thread during the procedure.

There are many advantages to threading. It is inexpensive, fast, neat, and generally considered to be less painful than plucking. It is also very precise, making it a good choice for eyebrows and facial hair. Like plucking, results can last up to two to four weeks.

There are also disadvantages to be aware of. Threading can be painful and cause itching afterwards. Side effects can include folliculitis, a bacterial infection in the hair follicles, skin reddening or puffiness, and changes in skin pigment.