All The Different Types Of Tweezers You Need

When it comes to maintaining eyebrows, I'm a big believer in the power of some good ol' tweezers. But if you've ever purchased your own pair from a beauty supply, you might have noticed just how many different types of tweezers there are. (Seriously, who came up with all of these?) And because it seems like the common pair of slant tweezers are multipurpose enough to cover a range of tweezer-related needs, what do all of those other shapes actually do?

Even if you're more of a waxer or a threader, there are plenty of other reasons that make it a good idea to have a pair of tweezers around. Whether you just need to touch up around your arch, have an ingrown hair that needs to be artfully plucked, or just need a hand applying a pair of falsies, the right pair of tweezers will easily get the job done. So you can be sure you have the right type on hand, here's what all of those differently shaped tweezers are capable of. Just make sure that, regardless of the shape you select, to always pick a pair with stainless steel tips. Not only will they last longer, but they won't rust and cause irritation when they come in contact with your skin.

1. Slant-Tip Tweezers

Tweezerman Slant Tweezer, $21, Amazon

The classic slant-tip is a staple. This shape is ideal for tweezing brows as the edge can easily grab hairs while the point can be used for more precise plucking. This style can even be used to apply false lashes.

2. Point-Tip Tweezers

Tweezerman Point Tweezer, $19, Amazon

I know this style looks scary, and they can be a little dangerous if you don't have a steady hand. But if you do, these will help you pluck the thinnest or shortest of hairs. This style is also ideal for tweezing ingrown hairs or even removing splinters. And if you're into nail art, point-tip tweezers can help grab and place small rhinestones or decals.

3. Pointed-Slant Tweezers

Tweezerman Pointed Slant, $19, Amazon

Combining the previous two types of tweezers will give you this bad boy. Although the slant is more severe, it will still grab hairs as easily as a classic, slant-tip. And even though the point is not as sharp as regular, point-tip tweezers it will still offer enough precision to grab fine hairs and relieve ingrowns and splinters.

4. Round-Tip Tweezers

ApeX Original Round Tip Precision Tweezers, $19, Amazon

While round-tip tweezers are not the best for tweezing straight-on as they may grab too many hairs at once, they are good for tweezing at various angles. Plus, the rounded tip makes this type safer, as the risk of accidentally stabbing yourself while tweezing is significantly reduced.

5. Flat-Tip Tweezers

Long Flat Tip Black Plastic Anti-static Tweezers, $4, Amazon

Flat tips are generally not recommended for tweezing hairs as they will grab too many at once and pull unevenly. However, they can still be used in other ways, like applying false lashes.

6. Arched-Claw Tweezers

Ultra Claw Tip Tweezer Stainless, $18, Amazon

Instead of the traditional taper that tweezers usually have, an arched-claw will provide some more leverage by allowing you to better see what hairs you have trapped. This style can be especially useful when tweezing harder-to-see areas like around the bikini line or harder-to-see, short or light-colored hairs.

7. Wide-Grip Tweezers

Wide Grip Slant Tweezer, $15, Amazon

Wide-grip tweezers can come with a variety of tip shapes, but the idea is that the wider body provides extra comfort and control. So if you feel like you can be a little messy, a wider grip may help increase your skill.

Images: Miki Hayes; Courtesy of Brands