Is there a permanent method of hair removal?

Many believe that electrolysis or laser treatment are the only truly permanent methods of hair removal.

However, many are unaware of a much more economical method which many have found to be permanent.

It involves using a regular method of hair removal such as waxing or sugaring or even shaving in conjunction with a hair inhibitor which is rubbed directly into the skin.

The hair growth slows down until it finally stops. If the hair inhibitor is used about twice a month from then on the hair growth is stopped - permanently.

Electrolysis

With electrolysis very fine needles are inserted into the hair follicle and an electric current is used to disable the hair growth. Each hair has to be treated individually. Repeated visits are often necessary and the cost can run into hundreds and thousands of dollars.

Much discomfort or pain can be associated with the process, depending on the individual. It is best carried out by a professional as there are dangers of skin damage if not done properly.

See Also:

Modern Electrology
Written by Fino Gior, a practicing electrologist for over 42 years, this book is one of the most informative available on the subject while at the same time being easy to understand.

Laser hair removal

This method uses a laser to disable the hair follicle. Beams of light can treat a number of hairs at the same time. There are claims that the discomfort is less than electrolysis. It can be more expensive than electrolysis and repeated visits are often necessary.

The risk of skin injury is higher on persons with darker skin. Surrounding tissue can be burned and a wider skin area affected. With professional consultations however, the risks can be discussed and minimized.

See Also:
laserhairremoval.com
This site contains before and after photos, video footage of the laser hair removal procedure, and a free consultation form to check your suitability. All manner of questions regarding laser treatment are given comprehensive coverage.

Depilatories

Depilatories are creams which can be applied to the skin area and removed after 20 minutes or so taking the hair with it.

The results usually last a few days even up to two weeks with some persons.

This method is relatively cheap but needs repeating frequently.

Some persons find the smell released during the process to be a little offensive.

Shaving?

Shaving is one of the most popular methods of hair removal. Why? Because it is quick, cheap and easy for a person to do by themselves. The main disadvantage is that it doesn't last very long and has to be frequently repeated.

The skin is also more affected by blade shaving as the outer layer of skin is removed along with the hair although this largely consists of cells which are being shed.

Care must be taken to shave carefully to avoid ingrown hairs and skin irritations.

Electric shavers are very convenient although there is some debate over whether it is possible to get as close a shave as with blade shaving.

Sugaring

A paste made primarily of sugar is warmed and then applied thinly to the skin in the direction of the hair growth. Reusable cotton strips are then pressed firmly onto the paste and then sharply pulled back thus removing the hair with the paste.

Generally sugaring hair removal lasts between 4 and 6 weeks depending on the level of hair growth. The hair is removed from the root. Repeated treatments can tend to weaken the hair so it becomes easier over time.

Hair inhibitors

Hair inhibitors have appeared on the market in recent years made from plant enzymes. They change the nature of the hair follicle so it becomes soft like baby hair. They need to be applied after using waxing or one of the other methods for a few weeks until the hair disappears.

These solutions can inhibit hair growth for many months and are thus quite economical in view of the fewer times the treatment has to be applied.

Product Information

Tweezers

Tweezers are very cheap, ranging anywhere from $3 to $30. This method is very time consuming as each hair must be laboriously removed from the root, one at a time.

There is a risk of ingrown hair, some skin irritation can occur and the hair follicle can also become inflammed. Some say scrubbing the skin with a Loofa (natural) sponge when bathing or showering can stop the development of infected or ingrown hair.

Sometimes the hair grows back thicker and darker. The results can last between 3 to 8 weeks.

Note: RF (Radio Frequency) Tweezers (also called Ultrasonic) and Galvanic Tweezers send an electric current down the hair shaft as it is gripped by the tweezers. Some say the effect is similiar to electrolysis. There are claims and counter claims as to the permanence of these methods. To date it seems there is no significant scientific data to indicate long-term 'permanence'.

There are also precautions involved for pregnant women and anyone using a pacemaker due to low emissions of radiation.

Waxing?

A wax combination is spread thinly over the skin. A cloth strip is pressed on the top and then ripped off with a quick movement removing the wax along with the hair and dead skin cells leaving the skin smooth.

Generally results last between 3 and 8 weeks. Less hair grows back and it is generally finer.