Facts About Hair Removal
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Temporary Methods
Temporary results can last from less than a day to several weeks depending on the method used. Depilation is removing that part of the hair above the skin's surface. Epilation is removing the hair and root.
Dipilation
This can be shaving (using a razor or electric shaver), but often only works for a day or so. Depilatory creams chemically dissolve the hair. Rubbing or buffing is sometimes used on the fine hairs of the legs and arms, typically a mitt or a pumice stone is used.
Epilation
This lasts from several days to several weeks can be achieved by:
Tweezing (individually removing hairs with a pair of tweezers).
Waxing (a hot or cold layer is applied and then removed with porous strips).
Sugaring (similar to waxing, but with a sticky paste).
Threading, where a twisted thread catches hairs as it's rolled across the skin.
Rotary epilators, which grasp hairs and pull them out by the root.
Permanent Methods
There are three permanent methods that give good results, these are:-
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL),Electrolysis and Laser.
Electrolysis
This is an important and effective method; it was often preferred over Laser and IPL for small or sensitive areas with fewer hairs. Electrolysis hair removal is a skilled operation and takes more time than IPL or laser. Following reductions in the cost of laser hair removal at some specialist clinics it is recommended that price comparisons are now made.
IPL (Intense Pulse Light)
This uses a broad 'light spectrum'; an experienced specialist may avoid using IPL on certain skin tones (e.g. tanned skin or type 4 - 6) because of the risk of pigmentation. There may also be a tendency to 'super heat epidermal' melanin if used incorrectly. The pain experienced is sometimes described as being similar to an elastic band being flicked against the skin
Laser Hair Removal
Laser gives a 'stable, true, continuous output of only one particular wavelength', achieving a highly selective effect on the hair follicle. It is around is 20% more effective than IPL and so fewer sessions or 'shorter session' may be used. Laser is less painful than IPL due to shorter pulse durations and may be used on skins types that may seen as unsuitable for IPL.
Methods that are not recommended
Prescription oral medications
Creams that claim to be permanent if used for 6 months
X-ray (banned in the United States)
Microwaves; 'microwave radiation' is sent through a handpiece into the skin, where the energy causes thermal damage. There is limited data on safety and effectiveness
Methods that do not get good reviews:-
Electric tweezers - time consuming with exacting instructions, e.g. hold tweezers at 90 degrees to the skin with the logo away from you. Some users report that even though they follow the instructions carefully, they do not seem to give the expected results.
Home (hand held) lasers, which are time consuming and where the instructions say they need to be used for 6 months before the effects can be seen.
Conclusion
If you only use hair removal very occasionally (e.g. for a special event, a wedding or a holiday) then choose a temporary method.
If you require permanent hair removal, then make enquiries about electrolysis, IPL and Laser. Ideally find clinics that are happy to offer a 'free first consultation' so that an accurate cost comparisons can be made.
About the Author
David Hudson is a former University Lecturer and has written various articles on Intense Pulsed Light, laser and other hair removal methods.
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