Is Permanent Laser Hair Removal really superior to the various temporary solutions available? We like to share information with our customers on various methods of hair removal so that they know the facts to make the decision that is best suitable for them.

Waxing

The hair to be waxed should be the length of an eyelash.  If much shorter, the wax will not adhere to enough to pull out the hair. Waxing generally produces hair free areas for approximately 4-6 weeks.

If a client has shaved, they need to wait ten days to two weeks average for regrowth. Don’t be surprised if a client shows up for a waxing and shaved before she arrived. Because of these sudden cancellations, it would be penny wise to ask the client booking the appointment if she has allowed her hair to grow at least 2 -3 weeks.

  • Advantages: Very affordable, large areas can be treated relatively quickly. Hair is temporarily removed for several weeks. Salons can make lots of money in a short amount of time from waxing.
  • Disadvantages: Temporary method of hair removal. Stinging, bleeding, ingrown hairs, bruising, bumps, redness, inflammation, or tearing of skin may occur.

tweezing

Tweezing

  • Advantages: Allows for precise hair removal from small areas.
  • Disadvantages: Impractical for large areas since only one hair can be removed at a time. Stings when being pulled.

Depilatory Creams

These creams contain chemicals that dissolve hair at the surface. Cream is applied and after waiting the required time, it is wiped away with the hair. Always patch test an area first to check for allergic or sensitivity reactions. Active ingredients are generally caustic alkali preparations containing sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, thioglycolic acid, or calcium thioglycolate (destroys disulfide bonds). Common store brands are Nair or Neet. Most commonly depilatory creams are used on the legs. Generally these creams are left on the skin for 5-10 minutes.

  • Advantages: Affordable, leaves skin very smooth for about 1 week.
  • Disadvantages: If cream is left on for longer than indicated may cause chemical burns or severe irritation.

Sugaring

Sugaring is an ancient Egyptian method of hair removal. A liquid and water-soluble sugar paste, applied in a thin coat and removed with cotton/pellon strips. Sugaring is great for sensitive skin or those who have adverse reactions from traditional waxing. Residue is easily removed with water.

  • Advantages: Affordable, great for sensitive skin
  • Disadvantages: Temporary, messy

Threading

Threading is an ancient method of hair removal mostly used in the Middle East and India but becoming more popular in the US. Often used to define and clean the eyebrows, lip and other areas on the face, it can be used on large areas of the body. This method involves twisting and rolling a 100% cotton thread along the area with hair. The hair becomes entwined in the thread. The thread is then pulled away and removes the hair from the follicle.

  • Advantages: Affordable
  • Disadvantages: Temporary, can be painful

Shaving

Hair at the skin surface is trimmed by the razor blade sliding across the skin.

  • Advantages: Very affordable, large areas can be treated relatively quickly. Hair is trimmed at the surface for several days.
  • Disadvantages: Bleeding if cut by razor, ingrown hairs, skin irritation or shaving bumps may occur. Short-lasting results with a constant commitment.