Almost every woman at some point in her life has struggled with the issue of unwanted hair removal. Though traditional methods like shaving, threading and waxing are popular, LASER has revolutionized the process. It is very important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each method in order to have a customized treatment.
1)Shaving
Shaving is the safest and most convenient method of hair removal. The most common myth around this method is that it causes coarse and denser regrowth. In fact, the hair just gets cut very close to the skin surface causing no impact on the hair root or texture. The coarse feel is due to the cut end of the hair. Always wet the area before shaving and shave in the direction of hair growth while avoiding repetation of strokes.
Body area – Best for all parts except bikini line.
Drawback – Quick regrowth
2)Threading
Threading involves hair removal at follicle level, preventing instant regrowth. Follicle removal results in an open pore, so post treatment toner and aloe gel application is must to prevent infection and irritation. Salon technicians often have a tendency to go beyond the eyebrow line causing breakouts on the forehead. Avoid it!
Body area – Best for eyebrows (even better than LASER), avoid for other facial hair
Drawback – Painful method
3)Waxing
Waxing is a good method for covering larger areas. Entire follicle removal results in regrowth after 4 to 6 weeks. Only skilled professionals should perform this procedure. Anti septic precautions like application of a toner and anti bacterial lotion is must to prevent infection and irritation.
Body area – Arms, legs, back
Drawback – Can cause infection or ingrowth (hair growth beneath skin due to irritation while follicle pull out)
4)Depilatory creams
Depilatory creams contain chemicals, which dissolve protein in hair. Unlike shaving, which leaves coarse hair at the skin surface, depilatories leave a rounded, smoother edge giving a better feel to the skin.
Body area – Arms, legs, bikini area, avoid on face
Drawbacks – Skin damage if left on for longer, cannot be used on sensitive skin.
5)LASER
LASER is a permanent hair reduction method. The LASER energy directly destroys hair root. LASER treatment is a medical procedure and should be performed by a skilled doctor. Depending upon skin type and color, a minimum of 8 to 10 sessions followed by few maintenance sessions might be needed.
Body area – All body parts including face
Drawback – Ineffective for grey or bleached hair, pregnancy is an absolute contraindication
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