Multiple Options Exist to Help Women Remove Unwanted Hair

Nowadays, women have numerous hair removal methods at their disposal – some with longer-lasting effects, some more painful, some more expensive and some more complex. Regardless of the tools and techniques used, hair removal falls into one of two categories. Root hair removal techniques work by removing entire hair follicles from the root. Hair grows back after a few weeks, typically thinner and softer. Surface hair removal techniques involve cutting hair follicles that grow above the skin’s surface. The methods are quite easy, although the results do not last long enough.

With myriad options to choose from, finding a favorite hair removal method can be a long journey of temporary pain, continuous experimentation and dissatisfaction. All the same, learning about the options that exist can help make this journey a little easier. Here are five hair removal methods suitable for just about any woman.

1 - Wet Shaving

Wet shaving using a razor is unsurprisingly the most common hair removal method; it is affordable, easy and only takes a few minutes to cover large areas like the legs. Women can use this method on most body parts (including the underarms, legs, arms and bikini line) and gently exfoliate the skin while they are at it. Nevertheless, wet shaving can cause irritation, ingrown hairs and razor bumps without the right moisturizing shave gel. In addition, since razors only cut hair above the skin, women have to shave every few days to stay smooth.

2 - Electric Shaving

Electric razors work by trapping hair follicles between a fine screen and blades that move laterally, cutting the trapped hairs against the screen’s edge. The key distinction between wet shaving and electric shaving is that electric razors work best on dry skin, not to mention they are way gentler. This makes electric shaving a fantastic method for women with sensitive skin and an easy “on the go” option. That said, electric razors cost more than manual razors, and their results do not last quite as long. Women interested in electric shavers should also consider the maintenance needed, including regular cleaning and replacing the blade every few months.

3 - Depilatory Creams

Depilatory creams contain chemicals that dissolve hair several minutes after application, making it weak enough to wipe or rinse off the skin. Generally, creams differ by the supposed sensitivity of their target area. This means creams formulated for facial hair removal are milder than leg hair removal cream. The major downside to using depilatory creams is the possible risk of an allergic reaction to certain ingredients or skin irritation – especially if left on the skin for far longer than necessary. Also, since depilatories work above the skin’s surface, hair often regrows after a few days.

4 - Waxing

Waxing (either by a professional or at home using a waxing kit) works by applying melted wax on the skin along the direction of hair growth, then pulling it off in the opposite direction. The heat from the melted wax makes the hair follicles dilate ever so slightly, making it easy to pull hair follicles by the root. Waxing works well on most parts of the body, although it is best reserved for smaller areas like the eyebrows, bikini line and upper lips. While some women develop ingrown hairs after waxing, the biggest risk is the likelihood of a bacterial infection due to double dipping or using a single applicator stick on different clients.

5 - Laser and IPL Treatments

Laser and IPL (intense pulsed light) treatments remove hair follicles by targeting them with intense beams of light that damage their melanin enough to prevent future growth. While these methods are the most expensive, they offer the longest-lasting results, especially when performed intermittently over 4 to 12 treatments. Both laser and IPL treatments work best when performed by a qualified dermatologist who not only has the right training on how to use the devices but also vast knowledge about skincare. In the wrong hands, laser and IPL devices can easily burn the skin or cause pigment changes.