Underarm hair can be embarrassing and difficult to tackle because of its awkward position. There are several products for every budget that can remove this unwanted hair. When choosing a product you have to decide how much money you are willing to spend, how long you want the treatment to last, how much time you are willing to invest, and if you can handle some pain.
Razors
The quickest and most inexpensive way to remove underarm hair is by shaving. This can easily be done at home without assistance. Shaving is generally safe and painless but can lead to painful ingrown hairs and cuts that can become easily infected in the underarm. Shaving only cuts off the hair at the surface, so the effect lasts one to four days. A wide variety of disposable razors are on the market, including Schick Quattro, Gillette Venus and BIC Comfort 3, and many brands of electric razors also are available.
Depilatories
These are chemicals that when applied to the skin dissolve hair at the root so that it's easily wiped away. These chemicals come in several different forms including sprays, gels that you apply with your hands, aerosols and roll-ons. Depilatories last four to seven days, but tend to have an unpleasant smell and can cause skin irritation. Some widely available depilatory products include Veet, Nair and Surgi-Cream.
Wax
Waxing involves placing a thin layer of hot wax on the skin and removing it quickly with cloth or paper. This method also exfoliates the skin, leaving it extra smooth. Waxing can last three to eight weeks, but it can be very painful because it pulls the hair from its root. You will need assistance when waxing your underam. At-home waxing products include Nad's, Sally Hansen wax strips and the Parissa line of wax kits.
Epilators
An epilator is a handheld device that uses a coiled spring or rubber roller to catch hair and pull it out from the root. This device can quickly be used at home without assistance. Results can last for three to eight weeks, but it can be painful on such a sensitive area. Some brands have a special attachment especially for underarms. Panasonic, Braun, Epilady and Remington all have a line of epilators.
Electrolysis
This method sends an electric current to the hair follicle, which damages it and permanently removes the hair. It may take several treatments to remove all of the hair because each hair is treated individually. This method is time-consuming and you will need assistance. If performing electrolysis at home, take care to avoid electric shock, pain and scarring. The Vector Hair Removal System is marketed as the only medical grade electrolysis device available for home use, according to Drugstore.com.
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