Permanent Hair Removal Facts

If you have been considering hair removal techniques to take care of that hair that is growing in places where you wished it didn't, there are a few hair removal options to consider.  There are basically two categories of hair removal procedures - temporary and permanent hair removal.

As the name implies, the permanent procedures seek to remove unwanted hair in such a way that it never returns.   Sometimes these techniques turn out to be semi-permanent and have to be repeated over time.  The temporary hair removal techniques work for short periods of time and are subject to the body's normal hair growth cycle.

Individuals who seek permanent hair removal will usually be treated by a licensed Esthetician or hair removal specialist.  While temporary hair removal procedures can also be performed by an Esthetician, many try home remedies, to their dismay.

The hair removal procedures for both categories are described in more detail below:

Laser Hair Removal (Permanent)

Laser hair removal procedure is an FDA approved process which should only be performed by a licensed and trained professional. During this procedure, a small laser beam is used to destroy the hair follicles. This procedure is relatively painless and works best on people who have light colored skin and dark hair.  Costs can run from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on the size of the area treated.  

Electrolysis (Permanent)

The Electrolysis process treats each hair follicle individually, by injecting a needle into the hair follicle and subjecting it to an electric charge. This process can go on for months depending upon the size of the area undergoing treatment. This is a relatively painful process, and side effects can include scarring and infection. Costs can run as high as $1,000-$3,000 for the legs or pubic area.

Photo Epilation / Pulsed Laser (Permanent)

Similar to laser treatments, this FDA approved procedure uses a pulsed light beam to destroy the hair follicles. This method is especially effective for removing hair from the under arms and the bikini area. There are no restrictions regarding skin color, tanning, or hair color. Costs run from $500 to $2,000 and up, depending upon the area of the body treated.

The temporary hair removal methods include a wide variety of hair removal creams, shaving, plucking, waxing, and more exotic procedures.  The downside to these hair removal techniques is that they need to be repeated, some almost daily, to maintain that hair-free appearance.