Although never particularly fun, getting rid of unwanted body hair is a common occurence in most of our lives. Whether you decide to shave it, pluck it, rip it, or burn it off (whever it is) you should know all of your options for hair removal before picking one. The effectiveness of any particular hair removal method is dependent on your hair type (course or fine) and color (dark or light) and of course, your pain tolerance. Here we've gathered information on the most common way of getting rid of body hair to help you make an informed choice . . . unlike poor Jane.
Removing Body Hair
Waxing is a popular method of hair removal that uses a mixture of hot oil and paraffin spread over the skin to rip out unwanted body hair when cooled and solid. Waxing is one of the more painful hair removal options, but removes hair for several weeks and creates a soft, fine regrowth of hair, as opposed to the thick stubble after shaving. Waxing is a frequent choice for the eyebrows, bikini area, arms, legs, chest, and back. Waxing in especially sensitive areas should be performed by a professional, although there are do-it-yourself waxing kits available in most department stores.
Bleaching is another way to get rid of the appearance of body hair with little or no discomfort. Bleaching does not remove the body hair, but instead lightens the hair until it is nearly invisible against the skin. This achieves the same aesthetic end as removing the hair, without the physical discomfort of removing large amounts of hair through painful or uncomfortable procedures. Many women choose to bleach their arm, leg, and facial hair for this reason. Bleaching may not be as effective with especially dark or coarse hair, and sensitive skin may react adversely to the chemicals in bleaches.
Chemical depilatories are fast, inexpensive, OTC cosmetic preparations that get rid of body hair by weakening the keratin bonds in the hair until it is soft enough to scrape off. Depilatories (Nair and Veet are two popular brands) come in gel, cream, powder, and roll-on forms which are applied directly to the skin and allowed to work for a set period of time then wiped or rinsed away, taking the unwanted hair off. Hair removed by depilatories usually grows back within a few days to a week after removal. When using depilatories, always follow the directions carefully: the chemicals in depilatories can cause severe allergic reactions and irritation in all skin types and may be too harsh for especially sensitive skin.
Laser removal of hair is a semi-permanent method of hair removal that uses to vaporize several hair follicles at a time. Laser hair removal was approved by the FDA for permanently reducing hair, but can only remove a majority of the hair, not all, so full hair removal cannot be achieved through laser removal. Laser hair removal is effective on hair on all parts of the body, and may require touch-ups once or twice a year.
Electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal solution approved by the FDA. Electrolysis uses an electric current and forceps needles to destroy the growth center and remove the unwanted hair. Complete and permanent hair removal through electrolysis is usually ahcheived through 15 to 60 minute sessions of electrolysis over the course of several weeks. Contrary to some popular belief, electrolysis is only mildy uncomfortable, and sometimes a topical anesthetic is used to remove any possibility of discomfort. Whle there are electrolysis devices available for home use, these are usually unsafe and not as effective as electrolysis performed by a professional.Things to Remember When Getting Rid of Body Hair
Many body hair removal methods involve abrasive chemicals and techniques. For those with even the toughest skin a regular regimine of hair removal can damage skin and even permanently damage hair follicles until the hair is unable to grow back. If you're using chemicals or do-it-yourself electrolysis kits be sure to read and follow the directions exactly to avoid excessively irritating your skin or worse. Remember that most otc hair removal products and home kits may not be as effective or safe as those used by a professional. Use a gentle moisturizer to repair skin dried from frequent shaving or waxing and stop your hair removal immediately if you're experiencing allergic symptoms or other painful side effects (rashes, burns, etc.). If you're concerned in any away about the effects of body hair removal on your skin or hair follicles talk to a dermatologist about the best option for your skin type.
