Overview of Popular Hair Removal Methods

 

When you first started growing unwanted hair, what options did you feel you had to get rid of it? Or did you even know there were a variety of methods available? The vast majority of adolescents and young adults going through puberty count on shaving to get them through. But what if they had been aware of alternative methods? What if there was a better option for their skin type or hair type? Even as an adult today, you might not know all of the hair removal methods available to you. When you are informed, you can make the best possible decision for your needs. In this article, we will describe the key approaches to hair removal and how they work: electrolysis, laser, shaving, waxing, sugaring, depilatories and tweezing. Choosing the best technique for you could save valuable time, money and energy in the long run.

Please refer to the below chart for a full breakdown of these methods:

Electrolysis

The three key method of electrolysis are called Thermolysis, Galvanic and Blend. Electrolysis works by destroying the growth center of the hair with chemical and/or heat energy by the use of a fine probe. Once the hair is treated, it is carefully removed with a pair of tweezers. Each individual hair follicle is targeted one at a time. This method works on both the face and body. It targets large or small areas. Depending on the area being removed, your past history of hair removal techniques, and your treatment schedule, electrolysis can take anywhere from one to three years. The side effects of electrolysis can include slight swelling or redness. One unique but very important feature of electrolysis is that it is the only FDA approved method of permanent hair removal. Once hairs are fully treated, they will never grow back. This method is performed by a technician.

Laser

Laser works by emitting light into the hair follicle roots. Pigment in the follicles absorbs in the light, which thus destroys the hair. The laser can treat small sections at a time and can treat large areas fully. The process of laser can take from anywhere to six to twelve sessions to see results, though some people will need more than 12 sessions to keep unwanted hair at bay. This method could work temporarily or permanently, though for most people it is not permanent and requires years of maintenance. Some compare the zapping feeling to a rubber-band pinch. Prior to laser, one should not pluck, wax or undergo electrolysis. Before and after laser hair removal is performed, it is important to stay out of the direct sunlight, which could decrease effectiveness. Laser is typically performed by a technician or a doctor.

Shaving

Shaving works by removing hair at the surface by use of a razorblade. It is a temporary method can be time consuming. It has the ability to clear both small and large surface areas. Though cost-effective, shaving can result in cuts, abrasions, rashes and folliculitis bumps. Shaving is done at home.

Waxing

Waxing works by smoothing skin with hot wax and once dried, pulling strips off to remove entire hair follicles. This method can be painful and not ideal for sensitive skin. Also, since hairs grow at different rates and waxing best targets medium-longer hairs, the shorter stubbly hairs will likely stay behind on your skin, causing an unfinished, unsmooth feel. This is a temporary fix and maintenance is required every 4-6 weeks. Waxing can be done at home or by a technician.

Sugaring

Sugaring works to remove hair by the roots by use of a gel combination of sugar, lemon and hot water. It can be applied all over the body in larger or small areas. It is a quite gentle technique but can still cause irritation. Sugaring lasts longer than waxing and will take several treatments to be completely removed. Unlike waxing, sugaring pulls at just the hair, not the skin. This method is typically performed by a technician.

Depilatories

Depilatories are topical treatments for unwanted hair. These could include: creams, lotions, gels or powders. They work because the chemicals in the products weaken the hair so it can be conveniently wiped off. Popular brands include Nair and Veet. Given that instructions are carefully followed, this process should be pain-free, inexpensive, fast and quite easy to do. However, the effects of depilatories are short term. Hair will begin to appear within two to five days after removal. Odors can occur as well as irritation if performed on sensitive skin. This method can be performed at home.

Tweezing

Tweezing works by plucking individual hairs at a time, so the entire follicle is removed. This is best suited for smaller areas, such as the eyebrows and must be maintained every few weeks. This is cost effective, yet can be time consuming. It can be irritating to sensitive skin. This method can be performed at home or by a technician.

Whenever seeking an outside cosmetic service, please check the credentials of the technician as well as make sure the office is kept clean.

At Limoges Beauty NYC, we pride ourselves in top-notch service and are here to answer any questions you may have about types of hair removal. Many of our clients claim they wish they had started electrolysis sooner, after learning all the other methods are truly temporary. We have many clients that are ecstatic about their results and keep coming back for more areas to treat. Don’t wait any longer – call us today for a free consultation!