Removing unwanted body hair is a common task many of us have to do. No matter what your gender is, you may have to deal with hair in some areas of your body that you don’t want there. Some do it for aesthetic reasons, while others do it for hygiene. In comparison, others suffer from medical conditions that require them to get rid of hair.
According to studies, more than 99 percent of American women remove hair of their own volition, and more than 85 percent do so regularly. While men do it much less frequently, it’s still a big enough task that the global hair removal industry is valued at around $26.8 billion annually. Whatever the reason, removing body hair for the majority helps us feel good about ourselves.
With so many people wanting to get rid of their body hair, there will undoubtedly be a wide variety of options. So, which one is the best? Well, that really depends on the person. Here are some of the most popular methods.
Shaving
One of the most common ways to remove hair is by shaving it off. This can be done with a razor, electric shaver, or even a safety razor. Shaving is relatively quick and easy and doesn’t require special prep work like other methods.
The downside to shaving is that it doesn’t last very long. The hair will grow back within a day or two, sometimes even sooner. Shaving can also cause razor burn, ingrown hair, and other skin irritations. To avoid these issues, ensure you’re using a sharp razor and not shaving too often. If your skin is sensitive, try using shaving cream or gel to help reduce irritation.
Waxing
This is another popular method of hair removal, especially among women. It involves using hot wax to remove the hair from the root. This can be done at home or by a professional. Waxing lasts much longer than shaving, and it can keep the hair away for up to six weeks.
It can also be less irritating to the skin than shaving, although it can still cause some redness and swelling. If you’re going to wax at home, read the instructions carefully and test the wax on a small skin area first.
Here are the two most common types of waxing:
- Strip waxing is the most common type and involves pulling a strip of wax off of the skin.
- Sugar waxing uses a sugar-based paste less likely to cause skin irritation. This paste is made of sugar, water, and lemon juice.
Depilatory Creams
Depilatory creams are another popular method of hair removal, especially for those with sensitive skin. These creams work by dissolving the hair at the root. They are typically applied to the skin and removed after a few minutes. Like shaving, depilatory creams only last for a few days.
Depilatory creams can cause skin irritation, so it’s essential to test them on a small skin area first. If you experience any irritation, stop using the cream and consult your doctor. You can find depilatory creams at most drugstores or online.
Hair Removal Lasers
The ideal people for laser hair removal have thick, rough, and dark hair. It says that the laser is attracted to pigment, or color, in the hair follicle, which then disables the follicle from producing new hair. This process can be done on any body area, including the face, legs, arms, bikini area, and more.
You will wear protective glasses during the treatment to protect your eyes from the laser. There will be a snapping sensation that you will feel during the procedure, and it has been described as feeling like tiny rubber bands hitting your skin. The treatment usually takes 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the treatment area.
A laser hair removal service is safe and effective in removing unwanted hair. This service is one of the most popular hair removal methods, especially among women. Most people need four to six sessions, spaced four to eight weeks apart.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is a hair removal method that uses a needle to destroy the hair follicle. This method is usually used for small areas, such as the eyebrows or upper lip.
It can be done at home or by a professional. The number of sessions you’ll need depends on the area being treated and your hair color and thickness.
Electrolysis is a safe and effective way to remove unwanted hair, but it can be painful. It’s also important to note that this method can cause scarring. If you’re considering electrolysis, be sure to consult with your doctor first.
All in All
Whatever reason you may have for wanting to get rid of unwanted body hairs, there are many methods to choose from. The best method for you depends on your personal preferences and skin type. With a bit of patience and perseverance, you’ll be able to find the perfect hair removal method for you.