Monday, August 21, 2006

Faster Ways to Remove Unwanted Body Hair

Most people are spending a lot of money on the latest techniques to remove unwanted hair on their faces, legs, arms, chests, backs and private areas. Is it possible to remove hair from such large surface areas? And more importantly, is doing so safe? The answer to both questions is, yes. Removing body hair is possible and if done correctly, and in some cases by a licensed professional, it is also safe.
1. Hair Removal by Laser Treatments.
One of the fastest ways to remove unwanted body hair is by undergoing laser treatments. Although this is the most expensive approach, laser hair removal is the most effective at permanently eliminating body hair. Unlike electrolysis, where each hair follicle must be dealt with individually making the process extremely time-consuming and painful, laser therapy can impact several follicles simultaneously, which greatly speeds up the process. It's great for removing hair from the back and chest, arms and legs.
As stated already however, the costs are extreme. To do an area as large as the back will cost several thousand dollars, and that's per treatment. Several treatments are necessary because the laser technique can only impact hair that is currently in a growing stage. Also, there will be places where hair will regrow and although it will regrow finer and lighter, in order to be permanent, the hair follicle needs to be rendered incapable of growing new hair.
2. Hair Removal by Waxing.
The next best method of removing body hair is waxing. Far less expensive than laser treatments and even electrolysis, waxing works by extracting hairs out of their shafts. Because the hair follicle is not specifically and purposely damaged, hair will regrow, but it will take several weeks for it to reappear. Repetitive application of this hair removal process may ultimately affect the follicle and cause hair growth to cease, however, this is not guaranteed which is why waxing cannot be considered a permanent hair removal method.
Waxing, or sugaring if you're sensitive to wax or prefer an organic solution, works by applying a layer of cold or hot wax or a sugar-based mixture directly on the area where hair is to be removed. After allowing to harden it is very quickly peeled away from the skin, in the opposite direction of the hair growth and viola - the body hair is pulled free from that area. The process is repeated until the entire body surface is free of hair. It is possible to do this at home, but since most of us have a low tolerance to self-inflicted pain, you'll get better and faster results if you leave this type of work to someone else, at least for the first few times.
If you think it's time to remove unwanted body hair, whether for cosmetic reasons, sports-related competitions or any other reason, go with laser therapy if you can afford it or waxing. They're the best for removing large expanses of body hair.

Tuesday, August 21, 2001

Hair Removal Creams


For most people, hair removal creams are a safe and effective way to remove unwanted hair and can be used on any part of the body. Consisting of a texture similar to body lotion, hair removal creams are applied directly to the skin in the area of unwanted hair growth and are then wiped away only moments later. While not a permanent solution for hair removal, the effects of creams can last 4-5 days longer than shaving.
The question most people want to know about hair removal creams is: "how do they really work?"
Hair removal creams are depilatory agents, meaning that the hair removal occurs at or above the top layer of skin. Essentially, hair removal creams are composed of chemicals that weaken and dissolve the hair follicle, much in the same way that cleansing agents dissolve dirt. Any part of the follicle that is not completely dissolved will be so weakened by the hair removal cream that it will be easy to simply wipe the residue away with a warm towel, thereby leaving the skin smooth and hair free.
In general, the best method for applying hair removal cream is to wait until after a hot shower. The steam and hot water will loosen the hair follicle and actually have the effect of stretching it further past the layer of the skin than if the hair removal cream were applied to skin that is body-temperature.
Apply the hair removal cream liberally across the skin in the affected area. Dab the cream onto the skin; don't rub, as rubbing will force the hair removal cream into the pores of the skin, thereby risking the chances of the cream becoming unduly invasive. Let the cream sit for 5-8 minutes, or as directed on the packaging.
Once the allotted period of time is over, use a warm washcloth to completely remove all traces of the hair removal cream from the skin. Rinse the skin in warm water to cleanse the pores. If necessary, you can even step back into the shower. Avoid using any other chemical products on the skin, including lotions and makeup, for 2-3 hours. If the skin becomes dry and red, it is okay to apply a small amount of mineral oil in the affected area.
It is important to note that while hair removal creams are effective, they perform the same basic functions as shaving, but with considerably more need for precaution. It is advised that one never leave the hair removal cream on the skin for longer than the amount of allotted time on the packaging. If the hair removal cream is left on for too long, the user runs the risk of damaging and even scarring sensitive skin. Therefore, it is also advised that one purchase and use a cream that has a mineral oil component, as hair removal creams containing mineral oil tend to be less abrasive to the skin.
It is also not advised that one uses a hair removal cream while also on other medications, such as Retin-A, as the chemical components of the two medications may interact. One should never use a hair removal cream around the eyes, even in small dabs. Using a hair removal cream on the face is generally not a great idea.
Hair removal creams are safe, effective and a great method of removing unwanted hair. The effects last for up to 3-4 days longer than traditional shaving and are often less time consuming to apply than shaving. If you haven't tried this hair removal method yet, take the plunge! You'll love the results of smoother skin.