KidsHealth.org explains that the type of hair found on your head, armpits and pubic area is called terminal hair. It is coarser and darker than the fine vellus hair you have on your face, back and other parts of your body. Terminal hair at the bikini line can be stubborn and difficult to remove, but there are numerous do-it-yourself options as well as salon and dermatological procedures you can try.
Shaving
The most basic method of hair removal is to shave the bikini line. Shaving is inexpensive and relatively easy, and you probably have the necessary supplies. Apply shaving gel or cream to the area and use a razor to remove the hair. You will have smoother results if you shave against the grain, but you might experience razor burn or develop ingrown hairs. Health Services at Columbia University says that the effects only last several days, so you will need to remove your hair more frequently than women who use other methods.
Plucking
Another option is to pluck the hair at your bikini line. Use tweezers to pull out individual hairs, or purchase an epilator to remove several hairs at a time. Plucking is a lengthy process and can be painful, so it is not recommended for large areas or extensive hair removal. KidsHealth.org states that results can last three weeks to eight weeks.
Waxing
Have your bikini line waxed at a salon, or attempt to do it at home with a waxing kit. KidsHealth.org notes that your hair should be at least 1/4 inch long for effective waxing, and results can last up to six weeks. DermNet NZ explains that during the process, a thin layer of wax is spread over the area and a strip of cloth is applied to the wax. Once the wax is cool, the strip is quickly pulled away, removing the wax and the hair. Some disadvantages to waxing include expense, discomfort and the possibility that it can cause ingrown hairs and skin irritation.
Depilatories
Planned Parenthood explains that chemical depilatory creams or lotions react with the hair and cause it to dissolve, allowing you to wipe it away. You can get relatively inexpensive depilatories over-the-counter to use at home. You may experience irritation if you are sensitive to the chemicals, and some women dislike the strong odors of some of the products.
Permanent Methods
To permanently get rid of hair, consider laser hair removal or electrolysis. During laser hair removal, a professional aims a laser at your hair follicle, which stops it from growing. During electrolysis, the professional uses an electric current to stop hair growth. Both of these methods can be time consuming and expensive, and they can cause some initial inflammation or pain. Even though they are meant to be permanent, you might have to have additional procedures for maintenance, according to MayoClinic.com.
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