Say Goodbye to Hairy Days

Whether you choose to wax, shave, pluck or bleach, getting rid of unwanted hair is a battle women have been fighting for centuries. No longer just a cosmetic issue, women prefer hair-free arms, legs and underarms, as it’s more hygienic too. Whether you want to show off your sexy long legs in a mini skirt or flaunt your toned arms in a halter top, there are several way to eliminate body hair. What’s HOT gets some experts to give the low down on the various techniques.

Wax It Off

Waxing is the most popular method of hair removal with women preferring to get it done in the comfort of a beauty parlour. It’s a more long-lasting method of removing body hair and the areas remain fuzz-free for 2-3 weeks at a stretch. A reputed medical cosmetologist says “It is not a pain-free method but after a few years the hair growth will significantly diminish, and the hair will grow back at a slower pace. Moisturise your legs regularly after waxing. Also, when in the shower, scrub your legs gently with a pumice stone after applying soap. If you do this daily, it helps combat in-growths.” For those who have sensitive skin and get boils easily, apply ice and lacto calamine lotion on the area.

Razor Sharp

If it’s quick and pain free hair removal that you desire, shaving is the way to go. The market is flooded with various shavers, disposable and regular ones specially designed for women. But, remember the hair will grow back within a few days. Some beauticians suggest a few precautions before you get started. “Before shaving ensure you skin is very wet. Allow your skin and hair to absorb the water for at least three minutes. This causes the body hair to swell, making it easier to remove. Always change your razor once a week and use plenty of moisturizing shaving cream before using the blade.” Soothe your skin from razor burn with Chamomile tea. Either put cold, damp tea bags on the area or soak a cloth in strong, cold chamomile tea and apply to the area.

Creamy Clean

For instant, hair-free arms and legs you can try using the various hair removal creams. These contains thioglycolate which dissolves the bond between the hair but the effects don’t last long. Such creams are not for sensitive skin as they can cause irritation or a rash. Always do a patch test before hand.

Laser Effect

While temporary hair removal is usually done at the parlour, the laser technique is a medical procedure that ensures long-term hair reduction. Doctor says this is actually a simple and cost-effective method that works on thermal destruction of the hair follicle. “This takes multiple sittings as the laser affects only the hair that is growing. The laser is attracted to the melanin in the hair which is why the ideal candidate is someone who has thick black hair. Within a few sessions one can notice the hair becoming lighter and finer. This process is safe enough to be done on the face, underarms, legs and hands,” he says. There are no side effects if done under a trained doctor and it’s extremely hygienic unlike waxing.

Passing The Current

Electrolysis was used prior to the introduction of laser and involves inserting a needle in the hair follicle. A beautician says this works on the same principle as the laser. “An electric current is passed through the needle on the hair follicle to reduce growth. However, this is a time-consuming process and can be very painful as well. Since the hair follicles are not on the same level it can be a tedious task. It is preferred, though, for use on grey or white hair that can’t be treated with the laser.

Face Off

There’s nothing more unsightly than hair showing on a woman’s face especially today when you have the choice of plucking, bleaching or even threading. A reputed doctor says with regular threading the prolonged friction can cause darkening of the area. So avoid, doing it very regularly. Bleaching simply and quickly camouflages the hair but can lead to chemical reactions of the skin. Avoid bleaching if you have sensitive skin. She believes the best way to curb facial hair is using the laser technique.