Laser Hair Removal and Other Options for Women

Unwanted hairs have long been a source of distress for women. Whether they are dealing with hairs on normal growth areas, like the underarm or legs, or have unwanted growth on their chin or upper lip, finding an effective way to get rid of unwanted hairs becomes top priority. Laser hair removal, shaving, creams, and many other options exist for the woman in this situation. If you are struggling with this common problem, here are some solutions that might work.

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is something most women have heard of. This treatment involves destroying hairs at the follicle level using lasers. The energy destroys the root of the hair, thus making it eventually fall out, and also inhibiting re-growth.

There are some downsides to laser hair removal. First, it does not work well on hairs that are blond or white in color, nor does it work well for women who have darker skin. Most lasers, when used on African Americans, can cause hyperpigmentation, burning, and scarring.

This treatment takes between five and seven sessions, and most women need to have it touched up once every year. Laser hair removal is therefore considered semi-permanent.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis is the only method that is considered truly permanent. It destroys the hairs by destroying the cells that cause growth. Tiny needles actually slide into the follicle to destroy these important cells. Without them, the hairs cannot grow back, and they will slide out and leave behind smooth skin.

This treatment can be pricey, because it can require 10 to 25 treatments for truly permanent results, but for many, the cost is worthwhile when they walk way with a permanent solution. It can leave tiny scars for some individuals and is not recommended for African Americans.

Waxing

If the idea of waxing brings to mind painful experiences involving sticky papers practically glued to your skin, then ripped away with a handful of hairs, then rest assured that waxing has come a long way. Today's professional waxes use a soy-based compound that sticks only to the hair, causing far less discomfort. This process takes out the entire unit, including the root, bulb, and shaft, which means they grow back far less quickly.

Shaving

Shaving is probably the oldest technique. This uses a blade to cut the hairs, making them less visible. An old wives' tale has long been passed around that said this process makes the hairs grow back faster and denser, but a dermatologist will tell you that this is not the truth. Shaving does not affect growth rates. It can, however, cause ingrown hairs, which are painful and difficult to remove.

Depilatories

Depilatories are creams and lotions used for hair removal. They dissolve the proteins that make up hairs, which leaves behind smooth skin. This works well for hair around the mouth, on the arms, or on the legs, but should not be used near the eyes or private areas. The main downside is that it can cause chemical burns for some people with sensitive skin. Also, some people find that these creams do not work on their hairs.