For many women, hair removal is a deeply personal issue. For some, it is deeply seethed in their culture, faith, and personal belief system. Thus, some decide to leave the body’s natural hair alone, while others don’t mind getting rid of body hair.
For those who choose to remove body hair, there are a number of methods available from permanent hair removal techniques to temporary ones. Most women use the best disposable razors, but sometimes these can leave razor bumps that even make putting on Dove deodorant painful. The choice of method for hair removal for women is completely based on how much one is willing to spend and the results required—do they want the hair gone for a longer time or a few days? Here are some of the most popular techniques for hair removal for women that have sustained success through the years:
1. Shaving
Shaving is one of the most popular methods of hair removal for women. This is mostly because it is quite easy to do and take barely a few minutes. It can be done while in the shower without wasting any special time. This method is recommended for underarms and legs. Women who are not prone to irritation, ingrown hairs, and razor bump experiment with shaving their bikini line as well. The only safety concerns are cuts and nicks from a razor. However, most razors designed for women have the right shape to glide along the curves around the knees and ankles. For added precaution, replace the razor blade frequently. Also, use a good creamy shave foam or gel to lubricate the skin. Since only the hair above the skin is cut with shaving, the hair grows back pretty fast. On average, a shave every two-three days will be needed for best results.
2. Waxing
Waxing is another popular and one of the least expensive methods of hair removal. It can be done at home as well as in a salon. In this method, warm melted wax is applied to the skin. It is applied in the same direction as hair growth. The hair follicle dilates a little bit due to the heat. With a strip, the wax is pulled off in the opposite direction of hair growth. The dilated hair follicle makes it easier to remove the hair from its root. Since the hair is removed from the root, hair growth takes time (about four weeks). This method is commonly used for smaller areas such as eyebrows, bikini areas, and upper lip. Some even do it over larger areas such as legs and arms. But waxing these areas also cause more pain. It is recommended to scrub and exfoliate the skin before waxing to avoid ingrown hair. It is also recommended to use fresh stick applicator every time to avoid the risk of infection. This is really important while doing bikini waxing.
3. Depilatory creams
Depilatory creams contain chemicals that break down disulphide bonds present in the keratin that makes up our hair. This makes the hair weak. It can be easily wiped off or rinsed off. These creams are works best for bikini area, legs, chin, and upper lip. For the chin and upper lip, it is recommended to use creams that have been specially formulated for the face. For leg hair, a stronger cream will have to be used. Since these creams contain strong chemicals that react with the skin, it is best to do a simple skin test to check for allergic reactions. Those with sensitive skin may experience some irritation and skin inflammation. It is best to leave the cream on for no longer than five minutes or even less. Rinse or wipe the cream off. The hair grows back within a few days.
4. Laser hair removal
This is the most expensive method of hair removal for women. The treatment is done over several months. It is usually done on smaller areas such as the face and bikini line. It must be done after consulting a dermatologist. Also, an experienced dermatologist should carry out the procedure. This is important to lower the risk of laser burns and pigment modification. Despite its risks, it is the most effective and permanent solution for hair solution. The heat from the laser damages the hair follicle preventing hair regrowth. Some may need periodic maintenance treatments.
