Now that it’s summer, and you’re showing maximum skin, why let a little unwanted hair get in the way? I thought it was time for a primer on methods of hair removal. As it turns out, your tweezers and razor are passé. There are several more high-tech ways to get the job done.
Here’s what you need to know to look smooth and sleek, according to Terri Wojak, esthetics director and educator at the office of Steven H. Dayan, MD, FACS, at True Skin Care Center and True U Esthetics in downtown Chicago.
Waxing. The most popular method of hair removal in salons and spas is waxing. Results last 4 to 6 weeks. “It’s nice if you want something quick and immediate,” says Wojak. “There’s no razor burn and it’s inexpensive.” Hair has to be grown out a quarter of an inch before you can do it again. Popular areas for waxing include bikini line, upper lip, leg, underarm and eyebrow.
Electrolysis. This method of permanent hair removal involves inserting a very thin needle device into the hair follicle. The device uses electricity or heat to break down the follicle over several treatments. Electrolysis isn’t used so much anymore with the advent of laser. It’s most often done on small areas like the chin, upper lip, and eyebrow. There can be mild to moderate discomfort, and it can be costly to do on large areas of the body.
Laser. This method of permanent hair reduction has taken over the market. Laser slows down hair growth for seven months to a year. You may need touch up treatments because of hormonal fluctuations, medical conditions, or just natural hair growth. It’s usually done in a series of six to 10 treatments. Newer laser hair removal devices provide quick and virtually painless treatments that are safe for all skin types, says Wojak. Laser used to be expensive, but now you can find online deals with prices comparable to waxing. Note: laser doesn’t work on gray, blond or red hair, or the eyebrows, so you’ll have to resort to electrolysis.
Beware of everyone who claims they offer laser hair removal. Some people are not even trained to do laser. “Check the credentials of your provider,” says Wojak. “They should have completed laser training.” Also, she says, make sure there’s a physician onsite.
For more information, visit True Skin Care Center and True U Esthetics at 845 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 923 E, Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 335-2070.
4 Comments
Always like your helpful insight-
Thanks Susan! Happy Fourth!
So I’ve never heard that lasers don’t work on blonde, red or grey hair. I would think grey is more course, but why the others? Any idea?
Blonde, red or grey hair colors lack pigment. The pigment is what absorbs the laser during the treatment, and without enough pigment, the laser may not be as effective.