Smooth, hairless legs are a hallmark of beauty in many cultures, and leg hair removal is a staple of most Western, Australian and Asian beauty routines. Opinions vary as to when removing leg hair became popular, but Cecil Adams at the straightdope.com suggests that the combination of the famous World War II poster of actress Betty Grable in a bathing suit, shorter hemlines and sheer stockings may have inspired American women to start eliminating leg hair.
Friction
It is possible to remove leg hair using a rough surface and small, circular movements. This method does not last more then a few days, and if done incorrectly can cause irritation. There are commercial products available for this purpose, though some women prefer to use a pumice stone or the finest sandpaper.
Plucking
Using tweezers to pluck out individual leg hairs is arguably the most difficult and least efficient method of removing leg hair. Most women have hundreds of leg hairs, and tweezing them out will only keep you hairless for a day or two. It is also painful.
Shaving
Shaving in the shower or bath is the most popular form of leg hair removal. According to the experts at simplyhairremoval.com, "Most women start off by shaving their legs as teenagers and many use no other method of getting rid of unwanted leg hair." This method is simple, quick and inexpensive. Disposable razors cost as little as $1 for a pack of 10 in 2010, and many women use their shampoo or plain soap as a shaving lubricant.
Waxing
Waxing can be done at a spa, salon or at home. Leg hair must be allowed to grow out at least a quarter inch and then warm wax is applied, often with a wide, plastic or wooden implement that resembles a large craft stick. A strip of cloth is laid over the warm wax and then pulled off opposite the direction of hair growth, ripping the hairs out by the roots. This method will keep your legs smooth for four to six weeks.
Depilatories
Chemical hair removers come in creams, lotions and sprays. Beautywithbrains.com explains that "Depilatories contain calcium or potassium thioglycolate, which are chemicals that dissolve the bonds of keratin, a protein found in skin, nails and hair. This causes hair to become so soft that it breaks off when you remove the cream from your skin." Generally, you let your hair grow as you would for waxing, and then apply the cream, foam or spray in a thin, even coat. After allowing the depilatory to sit for about 10 minutes, you remove it with a washcloth or spatula, breaking off the weakened hairs. Results last about two weeks.
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal lasts longer than other methods---six to 12 months---but it is not permanent. According to the Mayo Clinic, "When the doctor activates the laser, the laser beam will pass through your skin to the tiny sacs (follicles) where hair growth originates. The intense heat from the laser beam damages the hair follicles, which inhibits hair growth." This stings, but it does not hurt as much as plucking or waxing. Several sessions are required to remove leg hair.
Electrolysis
One of the oldest scientific methods of hair removal is electrolysis, which, according to the American Electrology Association, has been in use since 1835. There are several variations of electrolysis, but all adhere to the same principle: a minute electrical current is applied to the hair follicle, destroying it. The treatment is expensive, and requires several sessions lasting from 15 minutes to an hour, in order to remove leg hair. Electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal technique available as of 2010.
Member Comments