Unwanted hair commonly grows on the legs, back and areas of the face. Excessive hair growth can be caused by varying factors, including hormones and certain types of medications. Various body hair removal methods are safe and effective and are available for both men and women.
Natural hair removal
The two most common ways to naturally remove body hair are tweezing and shaving. Tweezing or plucking is most often used for small areas such as the eyebrows and the upper lip. Shaving is a less-painful option for removing hair on larger areas such as the legs. Whether it is done with a disposable or an electric shaver, shaving is the most widely used method by men for removing facial hair.
Over-the-counter methods
Depilatory creams are chemical-based hair removers that can be purchased over the counter. Different types of depilatories are designed for specific regions of the body. People with sensitive skin or who have had allergic reactions to certain skin products should avoid over-the-counter hair removal creams.
Waxing
Performed at home or professionally, waxing or hot waxing can be painful and messy. However, the end results keep thousands of men and women returning again and again for appointments. Due to the length of time it takes for hair to fully grow back, waxing has become a popular hair removal method, especially for spots that are best not shaven such as the eyebrows and the bikini area.
Laser method
Although it can take several treatments to get the best results, laser hair removal is one of the longest-lasting hair removal methods. A laser is used to destroy the hair bulb, which prevents quick hair growth. While this might seem like the ultimate method for hair removal, WebMD warns that the "treatment can be expensive and sometimes painful. Be sure to select a doctor or technician who is highly trained and knowledgeable."
Electrolysis
Like laser hair removal, electrolysis should only be performed by a highly trained professional. This method uses either chemicals (galvanic) or heat (thermolytic) to destroy the hair follicle. Electrolysis can be used to remove unwanted hair on all areas of the body.
Epilator
An epilator is a mechanical device that works much like waxing. It grasps unwanted hair and removes it from the skin. Like waxing, using an epilator can be painful. Due to the way the device works, its use is not recommended on sensitive areas.
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