While more and more people are rocking the natural look, a whopping 99 percent of American women still prefer to remove their body hair. In fact, 85 percent use one of various hair removal types every. single. day.
Lately, men are also joining their ranks. Research shows that as many as 60 percent of men regularly remove or reduce hair growing below their necks.
But what different types of hair removal are there? And which is the best method? Keep reading to find out!
Shaving
Although it’s far from the best hair removal option available, many find shaving to be the easiest and handiest method, with no special skills or equipment required. This is just as well since you’ll have to do it often to maintain smooth, stubble-free skin.
Epilator
Epilators look like electric razors but work like rows of mini tweezers plucking out hairs when placed close to the skin. Although these gadgets can be painful if misused, epilation works on tiny hairs and provides long-lasting smoothness, making it preferable to waxing and shaving for many.
Depilatory Cream
Using chemicals that break down keratin proteins, these creams dissolve the strands beneath the skin. They have a reputation for smelling unpleasant and can cause irritations, but most creams work in under 10 minutes and the results last a few days longer than shaving.
Threading
Not sure how to remove hair with threading? You don’t have to as there are plenty of experts out there to do it for you. This process involves looping a thread around unwanted strands and pulling them out at the root. Although it can sting a little, threading lasts up to four weeks and is suitable for sensitive skin.
Tweezing
After the initial outlay of the pair of tweezers, you’re good to go, making this the cheapest hair removal of all. Of course, plucking is far too time-consuming for removing leg hair and too painful for your bikini line. But, tweezing works great for your eyebrows.
Waxing
For devotees, waxing is the best hair removal around thanks to the smooth, long-lasting results it provides. For those with sensitive skin or a low pain tolerance, it can feel like torture. That said, the best waxing professionals will leave you feeling silky in seconds so you might not have to suffer long if you choose a fast-working technician.
Laser Hair Removal
The closest you can get to permanent hair removal, laser hair removal uses light to target the melanin in the hair and cause thermal injury to the root. Although it’s expensive and isn’t suitable for all skin tones, if you are eligible, you’ll only need one or two maintenance sessions per year after your initial six to 10 sessions.
Your Quick Guide to Different Hair Removal Types
As this quick guide shows, all these different hair removal types come with a range of pros and cons. But whether you appreciate the ease of shaving or the long-lasting results of laser hair removal, the most important factor is your own personal comfort.
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