Types of Tweezers
Are you looking for a set of tweezers, but find yourself overwhelmed by all the options? Whether
you're shopping at a drugstore or beauty supply store, there is probably a seemingly endless
selection of tweezers, all with different tips and grips. Why are there so many types, and what are
they used for? We've created this guide to cut through the confusion, so that it will be easy for you to
understand the uses for different types of tweezers and pick out the right one for your needs.
How To Choose Tweezers
When choosing the tweezers you are interested in purchasing, it is important to ask yourself what
you intend to use them for. Are you looking for something to pluck hair, remove splinters, or to place
nail art? Do you have trouble gripping tweezers, or have safety concerns about using them? Once
you know what your priorities are, it should be able to pick out your perfect set from the list of
the types of tweezers below.
Whatever type of tweezers you choose, it is best to purchase ones that are made with stainless
steel. These cause less irritation to the skin than other types, and are easy to sanitize. Also, they last
longer than other materials and won't rust. Although they may be more expensive than plastic and
other cheaper materials, their durability means they can potentially last a lifetime, saving you money
in the long run.
What Are the Different Types of Tweezers?
Slant-Tip Tweezers
Slant-tip tweezers are one of the most common types of tweezers. The end of the blade is cut at an
angle, creating a slanted tip. If you don't know much about using tweezers, these are probably the
best types to start with.
Pointed-Tip Tweezers
If you've ever bought a first aid kit that came with a set of tweezers, they were probably pointed-tip.
The end tapers to a sharp, narrow point. These types of tweezers are commonly used for medical
purposes. Because of the sharpness of the point, they are not recommended for beginners to use for
beauty purposes.
Pointed-Slant Tweezers
Pointed-slant tweezers are the best of both worlds between slant-tip and point-tip tweezers. The end
is cut at a sharper angle than point-tip tweezers, leaving the longer end with a more pronounced
point.
Flat-Tip Tweezers
These are often also called square-tip tweezers. The end is cut straight across to make a flat edge
without pointed ends.
Round-Tip Tweezers
The edge of these tweezers are cut in a rounded shape, making them the best tweezers to use for
those with safety concerns.
Curved Tweezers
These types of tweezers have a curved end that lacks a sharp point or flat edge for gripping.
Wide-Grip Tweezers
If you have difficulty gripping traditional tweezers, these tweezers are for you. The ends can be cut in
any shape, but they have a wider body that is easy to grip, offering greater comfort and control.
When to Use Different Types of Tweezers
Slant-Tip Tweezers
Chances are, if you own only one set of tweezers and don't know anything about types of tweezers,
this is the type you have. These are great all-purpose beauty tweezers, allowing you to adjust your
level of precision. The flat blade grips hairs easily and can grab multiple hairs at a time, while the
sharper tip allows you to target specific hairs. These versatile tweezers can be used for everything
from eyebrow plucking to applying false eyelashes.
Point-Tip Tweezers
The most common use for point-tip tweezers are medical in nature. They ideal for removing
splinters, insect stingers, and ingrown hairs. If you are proficient in tweezing and have a steady
hand, they can also be used for precision plucking of fine and short hairs, and the narrow point
makes it easier to see the area you are working on. They are also great for applying nail art, such as
decals and gemstones.
Pointed-Slant Tweezers
If you don't want multiple types of tweezers floating around your house, pointed-slant tweezers may
be perfect for you. These are one of the most versatile types of tweezers, being able to function as
both slant-tip and point-tip tweezers. The flatness of the tip is still good for grabbing stubborn hairs,
while the point allows for the plucking of small or ingrown hairs, or removing shallow splinters.
Flat-Tip Tweezers
The only benefit of using flat- or square-tip tweezers for plucking is that they can remove a number
of hairs at once. If you are looking for more precise shaping, these are not the best tweezers to use.
They are, however, great for applying false eyelashes.
Round-Tip Tweezers
If you are concerned that you or anyone else who uses the tweezers might stab themselves with a
sharp edge, these were designed for you. Although they allow you to grab hairs from any angle, they
are not the best for precision plucking as they can grab too many hairs at once. The lack of the point
also makes them ineffective for removing deeply embedded splinters. However, they are great for
holding small, hard to grip objects, and are safer around children than other types of tweezers.
Curved Tweezers
These are specifically designed for picking up and placing small objects. Their lack of a flat edge or
point means they are not very effective at plucking hairs. However, these are the best tweezers for
applying nail art or false eyelashes, giving you a level of control for these purposes that other types
of tweezers don't.
Wide-Grip Tweezers
Wide-grip tweezers are great for those who don't have a steady hand, or have difficulty with fine
motor skills due to pain or other medical issues. If you are unskilled with tweezers, these might also
be good ones to start with. The wider grip is more comfortable to hold and easier to control. Their
use will depend on the type of tip you choose, as they are available with any of the types of tips
above.
How to Use Tweezers Effectively
Tweezers are mainly used for picking up and putting down things that are too small for our fingers to
handle. They can grip tiny things to pull out of the skin like unwanted hairs and splinters, or placing
nail art decorations. They are simple to use, just line the end up with what you want to grab and
pinch the tweezers together to grasp it firmly. However, there are some things to keep in mind for the
most effective use of your tweezers.
When using tweezers to pluck hairs, grab the hair as close to your skin as possible, and gently pull
in the direction the hair grows. Try to avoid gripping in the middle of the hair and tugging. Plucking
with proper technique will cause less irritation to the skin and ensure the entire hair is pulled out from
the root, and will cause less pain.
If you are using your tweezers to shape your eyebrows, rather than touching up between waxing or
threading, imagine three straight lines radiating up from the bottom edge of your nostril on the side
you are working on. The first line goes vertically from your nose up past the inner corner of your eye,
and this is where the inner edge of your eyebrows should start. The second line goes from your nose
through the pupil of your eye, and this is where your arch should be. The last line goes from your
nose and past the outer edge of your eye towards your temple, and that is where the outer edge of
your eyebrow should taper off.
If the hairs you are plucking are stubborn, you can use heat and moisture to open your pores and
make the hairs easier to remove. This can be accomplished by plucking right after you get out of the
shower, while the room is still steamy. For removing hairs on your face, another option is to soak a
washcloth in warm water and place it over your face for 5-10 minutes before plucking.
If you are using tweezers for medical purposes such as removing splinters or insect stingers, it is
important to use sanitary techniques to prevent infection. Before you begin, wash your hands
thoroughly and swab the ends of the tweezers and the area of skin you are working on with 70%
isopropyl alcohol or another disinfectant.
If you own tweezers that have a sharp tip on the point, it is wise to store them carefully to avoid
accidental injury. If they are stored amongst other items in a drawer or bag that you are digging
through with your hands, it's easy to poke yourself with them. Many of the sharp types come with a
plastic tip to cover the ends and hold them together, or some come with a carrying case. If so, keep
these to store your tweezers in and protect your skin!
Conclusion
Now that you understand about the different types of tweezers and their purposes, you should be
able to go into a store and confidently pick out the perfect pair for your needs. Say goodbye to trying
to pull out splinters or hairs with tweezers that won't grip them properly, or trying to apply false
eyelashes and nail art using your fingers. Once you have tweezers that are perfectly designed for
your intended use, you will find that they are easier to use and more effective. And you'll never be
confused or overwhelmed by the sheer number of tweezer options again!