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.
|