People have several options when it comes to hair removal, from simple "user-friendly" home methods, such as shaving and cream depilatory use, to the more complex treatments of waxing and sugaring, which may be best performed by a cosmetologist or esthetician if you have no prior expertise. Laser hair removal is much touted as a way to get rid of hair for good, but as noted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there is only one way to permanently remove hair: through electrolysis treatments.
Temporary Hair Removal
Shaving and application of cream depilatories, also known as "chemical shaving," are two forms of depilitation that remove hair right at the skin's surface. Although it easy to do yourself, depilitation has very short-term results that can last a few days or only a few hours. Andrea James, who maintains the Hair Facts consumer website, indicates that depilitation may not give people with coarse, dark body hair the results that they want. Often, the hair shaft remains visibly apparent through the skin, giving the appearance of a "shadow."
Longer-Term Hair Removal
Waxing and sugaring are forms of hair removal that take out the hair follicle from the root. These methods involve applying a thin layer or warm wax or a tacky sugar gel to the skin, firmly applying a cloth strip to the area treated and quickly removing it. Compared to shaving and cream depilatory use, epilation can result in smooth, hair-free skin for several weeks. Regrowth is staggered, making it easier for you to take care of errant hairs by shaving or applying a cream depilatory.
Laser Hair Reduction
Laser hair reduction, more commonly known as laser hair removal, is a semi-permanent way to reduce the density of hair growth. Lasers target a cluster of hair follicles, putting them in the dormant stage of growth for long periods of time. The Beauty Brains indicates that this method of getting rid of hair is a bit tricky, as it involves debilitating the tissues that control hair growth while leaving the skin unharmed. Laser hair removal treatments are offered at day spas and salons, but in the latter part of December 2008, the FDA approved two devices for home use. However, to get the most pronounced results, the dermatologists who maintain the Hair Removal Journal website, as well as Mayo Clinic experts, advise seeking treatment from a medical practitioner. Laser hair removal tends to work best on people with pale skin and dark body hair, notes the Mayo Clinic. This treatment is ineffective on body hair that is blond, light brown, red or gray.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is a form of permanent hair removal, according to the FDA. A very slim needle is slipped through the skin next to the hair shaft, after which a small current of electricity is applied to destroy the root. The dead hair is then tweezed out. The FDA notes that there is a risk of infection if needles are not properly sterilized, and when used improperly, scarring can occur. As with laser hair removal, some hairs do grow back and require retreatment. However, after several electrolysis treatments, hair is eventually removed permanently. Unlike laser hair removal, electrolysis can be used on people of any skin tone and hair color. Although there are home electrolysis devices available for purchase, James urges consumers to seek treatment through a skilled electrologist to avoid risk of infection, scabbing and scarring.
Which is Best?
Ultimately, hair removal is a personal choice that takes into consideration time, budget constraints and expected results. For many people, long-term or permanent hair removal is a more desirable option. But the semi-permanent method of removing hair through laser hair removal can quickly become cost-prohibitive and involve commitment to a certain number of treatments--usually between four and seven to achieve optimal results, as well as yearly maintenance treatments.
Ultimately, the cost of electrolysis can become considerably more expensive when addressing hair on large areas of the body, such as the back, in which case, good candidates may find laser hair removal less costly. To see a comparison chart of the cost of laser hair removal compared to electrolysis on various body parts, see the Resources link below.
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