Which Permanent Hair Removal System is Right for You?
by Richard George

Many people desire permanent hair removal for many different reasons. Whether their aesthetic vision of themselves demands the removal of certain hair, their choice of bikini styles prompts them to remove hair which would otherwise show embarrassingly, or whether they simply wish to rid themselves of exceptionally heavy hair on some portion of their bodies, they are united by the longing to erase some of their hair permanently and no longer need to deal with it through shaving or plucking.

Several different systems of permanent epilation and depilation exist in the modern world, each of which possesses advantages and disadvantages. Familiarizing themselves with these systems lets those who desire hair removal to choose the method best suited to their needs, individual hair growth patterns, and budget.

Electrolysis is the permanent hair removal system which was developed first, and remains one of the main techniques for eradicating unwanted hair. It involves sliding a thin metal probe into individual hair follicles and then electrifying the probe, scorching or chemically killing the follicle. If done properly, the skin is not actually pierced, but clumsy handling can result in a tiny stab from the probe. The main advantages of electrolysis are that it is equally effective with all colors and thicknesses of hair and all skin colors, and that individual treatments are relatively low-cost, meaning that expense is spread out over time. Its disadvantages are that it is somewhat painful, and that since hairs are killed literally one at a time, it can be a very prolonged procedure, often taking two to four years, and the total cost may therefore end up being higher than the total cost of laser treatment.

Laser treatment, by contrast, uses a laser beam about the width of a fingertip to heat and kill follicles without actually penetrating the skin. It is most effective when dealing with light skin and dark hair, since the laser light is then absorbed mainly by the hair and goes mainly to killing the follicles. Dark-skinned patients or those with light, fine hair may find the process to be less effective. People with dark skin may also experience pain with the treatment and need to use special gels to protect their skin. Laser treatment is faster and, generally, more comfortable than electrolysis, but can be more costly per treatment session and can be less effective on certain types of hair and skin.

Finally, some companies now offer creams which seem to offer the promise of permanent hair reduction or removal. These creams are based on bioactive plant extracts rather than the usual chemicals, and can therefore be left on longer safely, increasing their penetration into the follicles. They can weaken and perhaps permanently halt hair growth, although periodic applications are recommended to ensure that hair, once removed, stays away. These creams offer comfort, convenience, and extremely low cost as their advantages, but have not been on the market long enough to prove that their hair removal is truly permanent rather than simply longer than the usual chemical depilatory.

With the range of permanent hair removal solutions now available, the discerning hair remover can educate themselves on the options available and choose one that matches their expectations, needs, and budget, as well as the individual characteristics of their hair and skin.

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