Removing body hair is part of the regular grooming process for many people. Choosing a body hair removal method may require some trial and error to find a method that provides you with the results you desire without unwanted side effects. Talk to your dermatologist if you have any concerns about body hair removal products or treatments.
Types
While shaving and depilatory creams are some of the most popular body hair removal procedures, you may be looking for a more long-term treatment method. At-home and professional waxes can help remove unwanted hair nearly anywhere on the body by using a sticky wax to pull hair out at the root. Laser hair removal slows hair growth and helps remove unwanted body hair by using an intense beam of light to damage hair follicles and discourage further growth. Electrolysis involves inserting a small needle into each hair follicle and administering a slight electrical current that damages the hair follicle and destroys it over time.
Efficacy
Waxing is extremely effective at removing unwanted body hair and keeping skin smooth. Since the wax sticks to hairs and allows them to be pulled out at the root, it is unlikely for any hairs except very small ones to remain if you use a high quality wax or get a professional wax at a salon.
Laser hair removal is effective for many people, particularly on areas where skin is thinner, such as the bikini area. Most people can expect a 10 to 25 percent reduction in hair growth with each treatment, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Electrolysis is very effective and is the only treatment method that has the potential to be permanent. The effectiveness of electrolysis treatments depends on how skilled the technician performing the procedure is, as it requires extreme accuracy in terms of needle placement. A common estimate is that 25 percent of treated hairs will not regrow, according to DermNet NZ.
Time Frame
Waxing typically lasts three to six weeks before you need to repeat the procedure. Allowing more time in between waxing sessions will allow the hair to grow longer and increase the amount of hair removed.
Laser hair removal patients usually require several treatments to achieve their desired results. You can repeat laser treatments every four to six weeks until you achieve your desired results as long as you do not experience negative side effects. You may also need maintenance treatments every six to 12 months, explains MayoClinic.com.
Electrolysis is often a time-consuming procedure. Some types of electrolysis require a minute or more to remove each hair, and you may need repeat insertions into some hair follicles.
Side Effects
The most common side effects from waxing are pain, redness and irritation. These are temporary and usually subside within a few hours.
Laser hair removal can temporarily darken or lighten the skin. This is particularly a concern in individuals with darker skin tones. To minimize the potential of pigment changes, consult with an experienced laser hair removal technician. Temporary irritation and scabbing around the treatment area is common. Blistering and scarring are rare but do affect some laser hair removal patients.
Electrolysis is sometimes a rather painful experience. To minimize discomfort, you can apply a topical anesthetic cream an hour before the procedure. Redness and skin discoloration are other possible side effects of electrolysis.
Considerations
Waxing is less expensive than laser hair removal and electrolysis. Professional waxing can be costly, particularly if you are treating a large area, but having a professional wax at least once can help you learn techniques to wax properly at home. Laser hair removal and electrolysis can cost hundreds of dollars per session, depending on the location and how much hair you need removed. Talk with your dermatologist before scheduling a laser hair removal or electrolysis procedure. A doctor can help you determine what method would be the safest and most effective for you.
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