Removing those extra, unwanted hairs is problematic for both men and women alike. Various options are available, but finding the right method for you will take some time and possibly trying more than one method. Hair removal is common for most in regions such as the legs, face, armpits and bikini lines. Most hair removal is temporary and requires repeating the technique every few days or so, depending on your hair growth.
Depilation
Step 1
Read the manufacturers label for he application process, time period, tips and warnings. Depilatory creams are available in gel, cream, lotion, aerosol and roll-on and contain chemicals that dissolve the hair.
Step 2
Apply the depilatory product to the area of the skin where you want to remove hair. Allow the product to sit on the skin, approximately three minutes or according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
Step 3
Remove the depilatory product by gently scrubbing the area with a washcloth or body sponge for three minutes, suggests Sam McKee, vice-president of product development of Del Laboratories in Farmington, New York.
Step 4
Rinse the depilatory product off with water. Ensure you remove all traces of the chemical hair remover from the skin. Dry the area with a towel and moisturize.
Shave It Off
Step 1
Moisten your skin by applying a warm compress, taking a warm shower or soaking in a warm bath. Softening the hair helps to prevent razor burn and bumps while shaving.
Step 2
Apply a minute amount of shaving cream, gel or foam to the skin area to help reduce dryness and friction.
Step 3
Place the razor against your skin and apply a gently amount of pressure, then use short, slow strokes, while following the same direction of your hair growth. Use a clean, sharp razor to reduce the risk of cuts or skin irritation.
Step 4
Rinse the razor to prevent it from clogging from the hair and shaving cream removed from the skin area. Repeat Step 1 through Step 3 until the extra hair is gone.
Step 5
Rinse the remaining shaving cream off your skin, dry with a towel and apply a moisturizer.
Waxing
Step 1
Prepare the skin are by washing with a mild soap and water to help remove oil buildup and dirt. Cleansing helps the wax adhere to the skin.
Step 2
Dip the applicator into the wax and apply a thin layer of the wax product to your skin. Read the manufacturers instructions on how to prepare the wax.
Step 3
Place a cloth strip over the wax, press down firmly and rub over the cloth strip with your finger to help the wax warm up and adhere to the skin area. Ensure you rub in the direction that your hair grows.
Step 4
Grip the cloth strip with your thumb and forefinger and pull the cloth strip off quickly in the opposite direction of your hair growth. Repeat Step 1 through Step 3 until all the excess hair is gone.
Step 5
Tweeze any extra hairs not lifted by the wax. Cleanse the area with mild soap and water, then dry with a towel. Apply a moisturizer.
Tips and Warnings
- Waxing and depilatory creams may increase redness or irritation. Apply a cold compress for approximately 10 to 15 minutes to the affected area to soothe the skin, suggests Dr. Allison Vidimos, a staff dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
- Prior to using the waxing or depilatory method, test a small area of your skin and monitor for an adverse reaction.
Things You'll Need
- Depilatory cream
- Towel
- Moisturizer
- Razor
- Shaving cream
- Wax
- Applicator
- Tweezers
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