Hair removal is a vast subject so we have attempted to keep our information as simple as we can but still equip you with enough information to make an informed buying decision based on your particular needs.
There are 3 main types of hair removal:
Temporary Hair Removal – lasting several hours or a few days (depilation methods that remove only the part of the hair that sticks out of the skin) or lasting several days or weeks (epilation method removing the entire hair) both fall into this catagory.
Permanent Hair Removal – permanent is a variable term in the world of hair removal for us the definition is 1 year+ (some manufacturers claim permanence after just 9 weeks). For real permanence the only proven methods is electrolysis. Permanent hair reduction means less hairs that are finer and lighter than before treatment. No method is totally successful for everyone. These methods use various energy types and or chemicals to remove your unwanted hair.
Hair Growth Inhibitors – for long lasting results with these you have to be prepared for continuous use. Both methods covered have been clinically proven to reduce hair growth (herbal versions and non-prescription products have not).
There are also several methods of hair removal that are considered to be doubtful in as much as they are not clinically proven or in the case of X-rays down right dangerous. We mention them here only so that you can avoid them or know that there is no data showing that they are effective in their claims. Because we would not want to be linked to anything that is not proven we do not elaborate on them :
- Electric Tweezers
- Transdermal Electrolosis
- Transcutaneous Hair Removal
- Photoepilators
- Microwaves
- Food and Dietary Supplements
Restricted Methods:
- X-ray (banned in US)
- Photodynamic Therapy
Choosing the right hair removal method
These are just ideas or guidelines:
Men
For back and chest hair waxing is normally your best option. If your skin is pale and your hair dark laser methods may be a good option for longer lasting results. Electrolysis can be a good choice if you have sparse hair growth, but too painful and time consuming for larger areas.
For beards shaving is definitely the most popular. Some try electrolysis but its tiem consuming, expensive and requires someone with a lot of experience as it can result in scarring with heavy beards. Laser therapy again works for those with light skin and dark beards but is unproven as to how long it lasts and success rates.
Women
For facial hair tweezing is best if we are talking about mild amounts. For more moderate amounts bleaching rather than removal is a good option or prescription topical cream works for about 50% of those who use it. For more permanent removal electrolysis by a trained therapist is an option and for those of you with light skin and heavier amounts of dark hair laser therapy could be your best method.
Legs are generally shaved, waxed and depilatory creams used in this order of popularity. If you are not worried about a little pain rotary epilators can be a good option.
Under-arm and bikini lines are still cleared of unwanted hair by shaving for the majority. Tips for best results are to moisturize well before and after shaving with a ‘new blade’. Products like ‘tend skin’ can help reduce irritation and razor bumps. Permanent hair removal options are electrolysis and laser.
For forearm hair I suggest bleaching, rotary epilators or waxing. If removing hair ingrown hairs can be an issue so exfoliate and moisturize to avoid them. Laser therapy is also becoming popular for this area.
The amount and type of hair you have will effect the method of hair removal you choose and how effective that method will be:
Grey/blonde/red hair
Laser therapy is not very effective on these hair types.
Fine hair
You may find waxing, shaving with electric shavers and rotary epilators harder if you have fine hairs. Laser therapy is less effective on fine hair and electrolysis takes longer and skin damage is more likely.
Dark hair
The best results with laser therapy are for those of you with dark hairs (although occationaly some people don’t respond). Bleaching to disguise darks hairs can also be a good option. Epilation from the root is better than depilation from above the skin as a visible shadow can be left.
Allergies and skin conditions
If you have a tendancy to skin reactions or are generally sensitive always insist on a patch test before any treatments using depilatory creams/ powders and waxes. For those with metal allergies remember that electrolysis probes are metal. If you have acne, psoriasis, moles or warts check with your dermatologist before under taking a new hair removal method. Finally, shaving and electrolysis is not recommended if you have heavy scarring or a tendency to scar.
For All
A good idea is combining treatments so that you get the immediate results of say waxing and the lessened regrowth of hair by using inhibitors or electrolysis as hairs begin to grow back. Laser treatment followed by electrolysis on the few hairs that grow back is also a popular combination.
|
