Unwanted Body Hair Removal: The 8 Methods Overview

Unwanted body hair affects as many as 80% of women and up to 50% of men according to some surveys. No wonder there is a huge interest in the most economical, or most convenient, or longest lasting method of unwanted body hair removal.

Every individual is different when it comes to hair color and texture, rate of hair growth, and skin sensitivity. A method can work very well on one person but give quite unsatisfactory results on another.

Hence, each person must evaluate the pros and cons of a given method, not least, the cost, and then experiment to see which will provide the most satisfactory results. Here then are the 8 main hair removal methods:

1. Electrolysis

Electrolysis is listed first as it is generally regarded as the only real PERMANENT hair removal solution. That said, results can still vary so tests should be carried out first. Of course, it can be costly with a wide range of charges depending on where you live. Some estimates range from as low as $25 to $100 per hour.

While there are three main type of electrolysis, they all use an electrical current to destroy hair at the root. Larger areas of skin may be quite expensive to treat as each hair has to be given individual attention. Electrolysis is good for nearly all areas of the body.

Of course, an individual's level of sensitivity may dictate also. Some have compared the discomfort to the sting one can get from a rubber band.

2. Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal involves using a beam of light to disable the hair follicle. It is also generally regarded as a permanent hair removal method although some contest this as re-growth can occur in some instances. It is cheaper than electrolysis as a wide area can be covered at a time.

It can take months to disable all the hair follicles given the various hair growth cycles so many sessions are needed. As facilities offering laser hair removal have mushroomed in recent years, be sure to check the qualifications of the practitioner and examine the clinic for a high standard of hygiene before signing up for a series of treatments. Nearly all areas of the body can be treated.

3. Shaving

Shaving is a very popular, inexpensive method of hair removal. The main disadvantage is that hair re-grows after a short time, perhaps 3 days. It is wise to shave in the direction of hair growth to avoid the risk of ingrown hair.

A woman should not shave her face as it creates a stubble effect which many women find unacceptable. Shaving is suitable for the underarms, legs and bikini line.

4. Waxing

Waxing is suitable for nearly all body areas (except for a man's facial hair due to the different root system). Results can last between 3 and 6 weeks. Modern waxing solutions often contain ingredients which soothe and comfort the skin. It is important to always pull the wax strip swiftly in the direction of the hair growth.

Pressing firmly afterwards with the ball of the finger or with the hand can minimize discomfort. Some use an ice cube to calm the protesting nerve endings.

Hot waxes melt just above body temperature and when spread on the skin they trap the hairs as they cool. Cold waxes often come in pre-coated strips which are pressed onto the skin and then rip the hair out by the root.

5. Depilatories

Depilatories are convenient and inexpensive. They can cause skin reactions so need to be tested on a small area first but many newer depilatories on the market contain ingredients which minimize distress to the skin.

The main idea is that the strong chemicals in the depilatory dissolve the hair so that it can be rinsed or wiped off the skin. Results may last for up to 2 weeks. Some find depilatories are not suitable for sensitive parts of the body such as the pubic area.

6. Sugaring

Sugaring solutions are preferred by some as they contain natural ingredients unlike waxing solutions. They are suitable for nearly all areas of the body and results can last from 3 to 6 weeks. Results can vary greatly. Some find them excellent, others find they don't work for them at all. Experimentation is necessary.

7. Tweezing/Epilation

Tweezing is the usual method for eyebrow hair removal or stray hairs that may appear on sensitive parts of the body such as the nipples. Tweezing is best done in strong light with a good quality pair of tweezers which can grip the hair firmly so it can be pulled out in one action without breaking.

It is also a good method for the bikini line, chin, and upper lip, if a person has the patience! Hair may not return for at least 3 to 8 weeks. Electrical epilators are very useful for body areas such as the legs or upper lip. These automate the tweezing action, ripping out the hair from the hair follicle.

8. Threading

Threading originates in Asia, often performed by practitioners from the Indian subcontinent. A cotton thread is twisted across the skin catching hair which then becomes entwined in the cotton. It is then lifted out by the root.

You need to find a local beauty salon that offers this service. Hair may not return for at least 3 to 8 weeks. It is generally used for a woman's facial areas such as the eyebrows, upper lip and chin.

Which Method?

Seeing results can vary so much, it makes sense to experiment with any given method for a while before making a final decision. However, with the vast array of hair removal products now on the market, it is possible to find a method that fits with your lifestyle with a little experimentation.

Convenience, cost, pain tolerance, and level of permanency, are the main considerations to take into account.