What are the ways to permanently remove hair?

We all want to get rid of unwanted Hair permanently. What are the ways to remove hair permanently, and what are their side effects? You'll find comprehensive answers in the article.

Unwanted hair grows in various unwanted places on the body, such as the face, sensitive areas, and the back. Therefore, some people want to get rid of this hair permanently. Here are all the methods for permanent hair removal:

 Major Methods for Permanent Hair Removal

There are a few methods that can help in permanent or semi-permanent hair removal, as follows:

1. **Electrolysis**

   Electrolysis is the only method described by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a permanent treatment for unwanted hair.

   The principle of hair removal with this technique involves using needles that send shortwave radio waves to the hair follicles to destroy them. A special tweezer in the electrolysis device then captures the hair from the skin.

   Electrolysis is considered a permanent hair removal method used all over the body and is effective in treating different types of hair, whether dark or light.

   For the best results, electrolysis should be performed by a skilled professional. The person needs to undergo multiple sessions, and the number of sessions depends on several factors, including:

   - The area being treated on the body.

   - The person's sensitivity to the technique.

   - The amount of hair in the area.

2. Laser Hair Removal

   Laser is a method of permanent hair removal, although the US Food and Drug Administration has not classified it as such like electrolysis.

   Laser is widely used, working by using laser rays at high temperatures to destroy hair follicles.

   This method can be used to get rid of excess hair all over the body except around the eyes.

   Before undergoing laser treatment, the desired area for treatment is sterilized. Some may prefer to numb the area using a topical gel, especially if the area is small.

   The results of this treatment are almost immediate, as the person may notice a difference quickly. There may be a 10-25% reduction in hair after the first session.

   A person usually needs 4-8 sessions, and the hair disappears for several months or years. When it grows back, it is less dense and thinner, and it is of a lighter color.

   It's worth noting the following about laser technology:

   - Laser is more effective when the hair is dark and thicker.

   - Laser makes the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so the person receiving this treatment is advised to avoid sun exposure.

 Side Effects Associated with Permanent Hair Removal Methods

Although permanent hair removal methods are beneficial to many, they can cause various side effects, ranging from mild to severe depending on the type of devices used and the sensitivity of the skin.

The side effects associated with permanent hair removal methods are divided into two categories based on the technique used:

1. **Side Effects Associated with Electrolysis**

   Electrolysis is accompanied by several side effects that may appear after the session and may disappear after several hours of treatment. These side effects include:

   - Pricking sensation in the area.

   - Redness.

   - Irritation.

   - In rare cases, the person may develop an infection or scars in the treated area.

2. **Side Effects Associated with Laser Technology**

   Laser, as one of the methods for permanent hair removal, is associated with the following side effects:

   - Pain.

   - Discomfort during the session.

   - Irritation and redness of the skin after treatment.

   - In some rare cases, the person may notice minor scars in the area.

There are many painless hair removal methods, including medicinal and natural creams. Over-the-counter pharmacies offer topical anesthetic creams and sprays that are applied half an hour before hair removal, preventing pain by 90% with no side effects.

It's important to conduct a sensitivity test before using the anesthetic. Apply it to a small area of the skin for no more than 60 minutes, then wash it and examine the area for a full day to ensure there is no sensitivity.

Waxing Hair Removal

   - How it works:

     - Test the wax temperature by applying it to the inner part of your wrist.

     - Apply the wax in the direction of hair growth using the stick provided with the wax.

     - Cover it with fabric strips and rub them with your hands in the same direction as the hair for a few seconds.

     - When the wax is dry, pull the strips quickly in the opposite direction of hair growth.

     - If using pre-prepared wax strips, rub them between your palms for a few seconds to warm them, then separate the layers of the strip, apply it to the skin, and rub it with your hands in the same direction as the hair for a few seconds, and then pull the strips quickly in the opposite direction of hair growth.

   - Where it can be used on the skin: Anywhere, including the face, underarms, legs, and bikini area.

   - How long does the hair take to grow back: 3-6 weeks.

   - Possible side effects: Redness, swelling, skin irritation, ingrown hairs.

   - Tips to reduce pain during hair removal:

     - Take a pain reliever half an hour before waxing.

     - Exfoliate the skin before using wax to help remove ingrown hair.

     - Apply baby powder to absorb moisture and get better results.

     - Avoid waxing during or right before menstruation, as the skin is more sensitive during this time.

   - Tips for wax hair removal:

     - Hair should be at least 1/4 inch long for effective waxing.

     - To prevent ingrown hair, exfoliate the skin twice a week to remove dead skin, which is the main cause of ingrown hair. You can make a natural scrub by mixing sugar with olive oil or coconut oil and scrubbing the body with it, then rinsing it with warm water.

     - It is advisable to wax in a warm environment, such as in the bathroom, as the hair follicles are open then, making hair removal less painful.

     - Do not apply wax to the same area more than twice. Hair that has not been removed is removed using tweezers.

     - Reasons for not removing hair: The hair is too short, the wax is still hot, not enough wax was applied, or the wax was removed incorrectly (against the direction of hair growth).

     - Avoid using this method of hair removal if you have wounds, burns, acne, or in areas with many moles. Consult a doctor for the best hair removal method.

Hair Removal Creams

   - How it works:

     - These creams contain chemicals such as calcium thioglycolate or potassium thioglycolate that dissolve the proteins that make up the hair, allowing for hair removal.

   - Where it can be used on the skin:** Legs, underarms, bikini area. Sometimes not very effective on coarse hair.

   - How long does the hair take to grow back:** Two days to a few weeks.

   - Possible side effects:** Since they work by dissolving the hair protein (keratin), they can also dissolve keratin in the skin if left on for too long or if your skin is very sensitive. Therefore, it should be applied to a small, hidden area of the skin to test your skin's reaction before applying it to a larger area. If it causes burns, sores, or a skin rash, dispose of it immediately.

   - To avoid problems, follow the instructions provided with the cream carefully.**