Shaving has long been the standard process for hair removal for women and men, dating as
far back as ancient times. It’s is still very popular, which is evidenced by the dizzying array of razor brands and styles. They’ve come a long way from our fathers or grandfathers traditional safety razor – three, four, or five blades on a single razor – however, there are far more efficient and longer lasting methods of hair removal available in today’s world…move over razors!
Chemical depilatories
Chemical depilatories, available in creams, gels, aerosols and powders, are usually used at home. These mixtures contain chemicals that weaken the hairs on the skin’s surface to the point where they can be wiped away with a damp cloth. The process usually takes between 5–10 minutes with results lasting up to a week.
Waxing
Waxing is a popular choice because it can typically be used anywhere on the body and the results last longer than shaving or depilatories. A typical waxing procedure will give two-to-four weeks of smooth skin. For men, some of the most popular areas are the chest and back. For women, eyebrow and bikini waxes are most often requested.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is the only procedure approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for permanent hair removal and can be used on all hair colors and skin types, although results can vary from person to person. It works by using a fine needle to transmit an electric current into a hair follicle to destroy its root. Because the hair is treated follicle by follicle, it is often a lengthy process.
Electrolysis can be used to treat hair anywhere on the body except inside the nose and ears. Because hair grows in stages and each hair is not in the same stage at the same time, multiple electrolysis sessions are needed to achieve optimal results. Once you are done, you’re done!
Laser and intense pulsed light (IPL)
Laser and IPL hair removal are similar procedures that use different light-based technologies. Laser hair removal uses a pure monochromatic beam of laser light to target the melanin in the hair and damage the hair follicle. IPL hair removal uses a broad-based light that emits multiple wavelengths as opposed to one beam. With each procedure, six-to-eight treatments are usually needed for best results.
Laser hair removal has come a long way since the introduction of the procedure in the late 1990s. Developments in laser and light-based technology now allow for the safe and effective treatment of many different skin types, although individuals should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Radio frequency and IPL hair removal
This method of hair removal uses a combination of radio frequency energy and IPL to selectively target and damage hair follicles. The absorption of radio frequency is not dependent on melanin, so this combination can treat a wider range of skin and hair types than laser hair removal. Each treatment typically results in less hair growing back, as well as a lightening of the hair color. On average, six-to-eight treatments are required for maximum hair reduction.
No matter how little or how much hair you’d like to remove from your body, there is certainly a method to get the job done!
Which methods do you use or would you like to try?
