Hair Removal 101

Swimsuit season is gearing up, which means it’s time for your skin come out of hibernation! With all that skin on display, you may want to brush up on your hair removal options. Here are a few common methods and the pros and cons of each.

1. Shaving is quick and easy to do at home, making it one of the most common approaches for hair removal. Although it’s very popular, it’s not necessarily the most effective or safe method. A common myth about shaving is that your hair will grow back thicker, which is false. But it is true that your hair may look thicker because when shaving you cut the hair at the surface of the skin rather than removing it from the root. So when it grows back, it comes in with a blunt end, causing it to feel course and thick. Another downside of shaving is that you may experience razor burn, cuts or ingrown hairs. To prevent these side effects, be sure to use good quality shaving cream and a fresh, sharp razor. Perhaps the biggest downside to shaving is that it’s very temporary. Most people have to shave every day to achieve smooth skin.
2. Waxing is another popular method of hair removal that involves the application and swift removal of wax to pull the hair out by the roots. The great thing about waxing is that it’s very thorough and lasts up to three weeks. The cons are that it can sometimes be expensive and the initial process can be painful. There are at-home waxing kits that cost less than going to a spa, but it’s not recommended to try waxing at home. There are too many possible complications such as burns and bruising, so we’d recommend going to a reputable professional instead.
3. Laser hair removal is a great option if money is not an issue. It’s quick and typically produces minimal or no side effects. The best thing about laser hair removal is that it’s permanent and you’ll never have to worry about it again. Certainly the biggest con is that it’s typically over $100 per treatment and to complete the process you will need 3-8 treatments. Pricing will vary depending on what area you’re working on plus the thickness and density of the hair, but no matter what, you will probably have to dig into your wallet. A few possible side effects include burning, discoloration, acne, scabs and infection. Make sure you research to find a skilled and trustworthy laser hair removal specialist to avoid these side effects.