Men and women alike have unwanted hair on their bodies. The most common places are on the chin, on the upper lip, on the cheeks, on the fingers, on the toes, on the feet, on the legs, and on the back. This unwanted hair derives from many causes, including but not limited to, various medications, genetics, hormones, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. Although some of the hair will most likely grow back at some point, there are several methods for unwanted hair removal. Some of these are as follows:
1. Shaving
This method is best used on facial hair, the arms, and the legs. Unfortunately, shaving often causes ingrown hairs. This especially true when shaving the pubic area.
2. Plucking or tweezing
This option is generally best used when there are only a few hairs that need to be removed, as it can be painful. The most common use of this technique is to reshape the eyebrows or when there are a few stray hairs on the face or neck. Plucking and tweezing can cause scarring or ingrown hair if performed on a large area.
3. Hair Removal Creams
These creams are also called depilatory creams and can be purchased without a prescription. Because these creams are different, it is important to read the label in order to buy the correct cream for each area. For example, one would not want to use cream made for removing pubic hair on his or her face. Hair removal creams dissolve the shaft of the hair, so it is also important to read the directions carefully. If it is left on too long, it can burn the skin. A person should also test a small amount of cream on the skin prior to use to be sure there is no negative reaction, especially if they are prone to allergies.
4. Hot Wax
This procedure can be performed in a clinic by a professional or at home. Hot waxing is tricky because it is messy, and it can also break off the hairs, leaving some behind. In addition, it can be painful, especially if it gets too hot which can actually cause a burn. Similarly, if a person uses certain acne prescriptions, such as isotretinoin or Retin-A, the wax can pull the skin off; therefore, wax should not be an option. Wax is most commonly used by women for the removal of hair on the upper lip and bikini area.
5. Threading
This is an old Indian technique used by professionals in some salons for the removal of hair. To perform the task, strings are twisted in a pattern and used to pull out unwanted hair.
6. Electrolysis
With this method, professionals go into the hair follicle with an extremely small needle that has an electric current. It can be used on any part of the body. Electrolysis has two main methods as follows:
· Thermolytic: Heat is used to destroy the follicle.
· Galvanic: Chemicals are used to destroy the follicles
7. Medications
There are medications that can prevent hair growth, but these are primarily used when other options have failed. They are prescribed by a doctor and include the following:
Vaniqa: This is a cream that does not remove hair but does slow down the growth of facial hair. It is to be applied twice a day. Hair will grow back if use of the cream is stopped.
Spironolactone: This is a pill that decreases the growth of hair in unwanted places. In addition, it may also stimulate hair growth on the scalp.
8. Laser Hair Removal
This treatment uses a light pulse or laser beam to terminate the hair bulb. It can be costly and somewhat time consuming, as well as slightly painful, but it is also one of the most effective treatments of unwanted hair. In addition, it can be used on most body parts.
As one can see, there are several different options for the removal of unwanted hair. The biggest task is for each person to find the right fit, based on the facts, for his or her needs. It is also essential to make sure that they research products and choose a professional who is highly qualified and knowledgeable.