From the time the ancient Egyptians first removed hair with the finely sharpened edges of seashells to modern razors with super-charged, moisture-strip, triple-action steel blades, shaving has long been the traditional way to remove unwanted hair from our bodies. However, advances in cosmetic science have presented us with other options including waxes, depilatory creams, sugars, lasers, and more. Here’s a closer look at popular hair removal methods to help you find your way to silky, smooth legs…
Hair Removal Method #1: Shaving – As the old standard, beauty consultants recommend employing the following method for an excellent shave to remove unwanted hair:
Make sure to steam or soak the area to be shaved, as this softens the hair follicle and opens your pores.
Use a new or sharp razor every shave to ensure a clean cut, which will reduce ingrowns.
Always use a shaving crème as opposed to soap, which tends to strip the skin of oils necessary to reduce irritation as a result of the shaving process.
While many women shave against the growth direction of hair, it is advised that you shave in the same direction as the hair grows to avoid cuts and razor burn.
When you get out of the shower, apply after-shave splash, crème or gel to close pores and reduce inflammation.
Hair Removal Method #2: Waxing – This is the preferred hair removal method for longer lasting smoothness. Although it can hurt a lot at first, many people who have been hair waxing for awhile report that the pain lessens with repeated waxing. Here’s how waxing is generally done:
Wax is applied along the same direction that the hair grows, then covered with muslin or waxing cloth.
The skin below the muslin or waxing cloth is pulled taut, and the muslin or cloth is pulled off against the growth direction of the hair, thus pulling off the wax and hair that it has adhered to.
Some people who wax re-use the same strip of muslin or waxing cloth to continue to remove hair until the "tackiness" of the wax stops removing hair.
After the desired amount of hair is removed, a soothing after-waxing oil or crème is applied to the skin to reduce irritation.
Hair Removal Method #3: Depilatories – Sold in creams, gels and foams, these dissolve hair at the root, allowing it to be wiped away. Some depilatory enthusiasts claim that this method allows them to remain hair-free for as long as waxing does, but for those who are particularly sensitive to chemicals, this hair removal method may be more irritating than both shaving and waxing. There are general directions for using this method of hair removal, but since formulas vary, it’s important to follow the directions of the one you’re using because accidents and infections can happen, but are rare if you visit a reputable hair removal salon and professional.
Apply the depilatory cream, gel or foam to the area where you wish the hair to be removed.
Wait the allotted time (usually between 3 – 5 minutes) as instructed by the manufacturer.
Wipe away the depilatory cream, gel or foam with a damp sponge or other “tool” provided by the manufacturer.
It’s important to rinse off all of the depilatory cream, gel or foam with soapy water to prevent chemical burning, staining of clothing or accidental hair removal.
Applying a soothing oil or body lotion after using this method of hair removal rebalances the oils chemically stripped from your skin.
Hair Removal Method #4: Laser Hair Removal – This is a semi-permanent or permanent way to remove unwanted hair. It usually takes several sessions that are administered by a certified professional to gain desired results. Here is a general guideline on how it’s done:
Light at a specific wavelength is directed through an instrument that is applied to the skin.
The light targets dark material – like the dark pigment in hair – damaging the hair follicle, but sparing the surrounding skin.
It is considered safe, if done correctly, and is reported to be more successful in light-skinned consumers.
It’s been reported to be painful in some cases, as well as expensive because more than one round is often necessary.
There is some permanent hair loss but re-treatment if often necessary.
Aftercare will be discussed and presented by your hair removal professional.
These four hair removal methods all have their advantages, so choose the method that’s right for you so that you don’t get stuck in a hairy situation this summer!
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