What are the Best Ways for Hair Removal?

Gliding your hands over silky-smooth and hair-free skin is undoubtedly one of the most satisfying feelings. It is just so soft! And whether it is for aesthetic reasons, hygiene, or personal preference, finding the right hair removal technique in, now, a broad variety of different methods available on the market, is quite essential. In recent years especially, advancements in technology have brought about innovative methods that offer effective and long-lasting results. From more traditional techniques with a new twist to modern approaches, there are plenty of things to consider – so which one is the best?

Shaving & Waxing: The Classics

Of course, one of the most straightforward and accessible methods of hair removal is and probably will always be shaving – over 80% of all women and 57% of men in the UK use it, making it the most popular one. Using a razor, either manual or electric, allows for the quick removal of unwanted hair from various body parts. However, shaving only cuts hair at the surface level, leading to regrowth within just a few days. It is important to use a sharp razor and shaving cream or gel to reduce irritation – unless you’ve got modern electric hair removal products that will be able to shave without any additional requirements.

Waxing, on the other hand, offers longer-lasting results compared to shaving by removing hair directly from the root. This method involved applying warm wax to the skin, which adheres to the hair. By pulling it off afterwards, it pulls out the hair from the follicle. It can keep your skin smooth for several weeks – though it can be quite uncomfortable or even painful, especially if you’ve got sensitive skin. It can, however, lead to finer regrowth over time – and it remains popular, particularly in beauty salons.

Laser Hair & Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Removal: The Clever Ones

Laser hair removal has gained significant popularity due to its ability to provide long-lasting results. This procedure uses concentrated beams of light to target hair follicles, inhibiting future hair growth. It’s fantastic for several parts of your body – including more sensitive areas such as the face, underarms, or bikini lines. It’s important to note that laser treatment works best on individuals with lighter skin colours, due to their contrast that allows the laser to target the hair follicle more effectively. IPL is similar but uses a broad spectrum of light instead of a focussed beam. This method targets the melanin in the hair follicle, heating and damaging it to inhibit future growth. They are available for home use, too, though professional treatments often yield more consistent results.

Electrolysis: The New Kid on the Block

Now this one is even more funky. Electrolysis is a method that involves inserting a tiny probe into the hair follicle and applying an electric current to destroy the follicle’s root. This procedure is effective for all skin and hair types but can be quite time-consuming, as each hair must be treated individually – which makes it great for smaller areas or individuals seeking permanent hair removal.

In the end, what is the best method for you is the one that you’re most comfortable with and suits your needs. Consider factors such as skin sensitivity, hair thickness, and budget, too – consulting with a dermatologist or licensed aesthetician can help you determine the most suitable approach, too.