Many men and women have unwanted hair. The hair tends to grow on the abdomen, back, cheeks, chin, feet, fingers and toes. Unwanted hair can grow as a result of higher levels of particular hormones, use of certain medications, genetics, and medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome.
While unwanted hair doesn't have any negative health effects on people, it can be annoying, especially when it grows in areas where other people can see the excess hair. Some people proudly wear unwanted hair, but others prefer getting rid of it. In fact, hair removal is a beauty routine regularly practiced by many people.
The good news for people with unwanted hair is that there are a lot of hair removal options they can use. These options are distinct and range from easy and low-priced to complex and costly methods. They also have their advantages and disadvantages. Here are the most common methods of removing unwanted hair for both men and women.
Shaving is arguably one of the most common options for removing unwanted hair. It is suitable for removing hair from any part of the body, including the face, arms and legs. Unlike laser hair removal and waxing, shaving is easier, cheaper and painless. However, it can lead to ingrown hairs, particularly in the pubic area, and its results are short-lived. Shaving can also irritate the skin and cause injuries, such as razor burns and cuts.
Waxing involves the application of hot or cold wax to the skin and then immediately removing it to pull out hairs. It can be used on any area of the body, including the abdomen, arms, upper lip and legs. Waxing can be done at home or in a salon, and its results can last for a couple of weeks. It is painful and often leaves the skin red and irritated for a few minutes. Hot wax can cause skin burns.
Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that involves the use of laser light to remove unwanted hair. The method removes hair by damaging the hair follicles, which are tunnel-shaped sacs within the skin where hair starts growing. Its results are permanent if the hair follicles are destroyed. Hair can grow back if the hair follicles are partly damaged. Common treatment locations for laser hair removal include the armpits, bikini line, chin, legs and upper lip.
Skin type and hair color affect the effectiveness of laser hair removal. It is suitable for light-skinned people with dark hair. Laser hair removal is not efficacious on blonde, gray, red or white hair because they do not respond to lasers. The procedure causes discomfort and is relatively expensive. While laser hair removal can be done at home, it is recommended to have it done by an experienced practitioner.
Electrolysis is the removal of hair using an electric current to destroy the hair follicles. The procedure doesn’t require maintenance treatments. Unlike laser hair removal, electrolysis works on all types of hair.
Electrolysis has permanent results, but it has a few disadvantages. It is painful with a stinging sensation, and can cause burns and scars if conducted by an inexperienced person. Also, the use of unsterile equipment can lead to infections. It is expensive because a person must go for regular treatment for 12 to 18 months.
Depilatories involve removing unwanted hair using chemical depilatories that melt hair away. The chemicals are available in some cosmetic creams, gels, or lotions. The process is easy and takes three to fifteen minutes. Using depilatories is inexpensive and its results last longer than shaving. Chemical depilatories can cause skin irritation or chemical injuries when they enter the eyes or nose. They also have a strong unpleasant smell.
