Besides shaving, waxing or plucking, there are a few methods available that can effectively remove unwanted facial hair. Most products and procedures aren't permanent forms of hair removal, but they can provide "hair-free" skin for an extended period of time. Depending on the method you choose, you can experience a reduction in hair growth or a complete cessation of facial hair. Talk to a medical professional before using any form of hair removal.
Step 1
Apply a depilatory. Depilatories chemically remove unwanted facial hair by disintegrating the hair shaft. You'll need to use this type of product regularly to maintain a hair-free appearance, but it's often less expensive and less painful than other methods. Stick with products formulated for the skin on your face to avoid skin irritation.
Step 2
Get a prescription for eflornithine. According to the National Institutes of Health, eflornithine is an effective form of treatment for women suffering from unwanted facial hair. This cream works by blocking the chemicals needed to grow hair, slowing the process of hair production. It's applied twice a day, but you'll still need to remove hair by another method prior to application.
Step 3
Use laser hair removal. This is a semi-permanent form of hair removal that uses low-level lasers to stop hair growth. Laser energy is administered over patches of the skin where it can be absorbed by the melanin, or the pigmentation of the hair. As the follicle increases in temperature, it suffers damage that prevents it from producing hair. The Mayo Clinic asserts that it takes a number of sessions to effectively reduce hair growth. Results typically last around 12 months before a follow-up session is necessary.
Step 4
Try electrolysis. This is really the only form of permanent facial hair removal. A needle is inserted directly into the follicle where an electrical impulse is administered, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. This destroys the follicle, so it can no longer grow hair. Unlike laser hair removal, each hair must be treated separately, but the effects are permanent.
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