Nothing beats a dip in the pool on a hot summer day! For those with excess unwanted body hair, however, those relaxing beach days can be a source of insecurity and even anxiety.
Both men and women can struggle with unwanted hair. It can show up on the face, arms, chest, back, legs, pubic area, fingers, toes – almost anywhere. When the weather heats up and we start showing more skin, hair removal can become a major concern for some.
If you are dreading that beach vacation due to unwanted body hair, you are not alone! Unwanted hair is an ancient nuisance. There is evidence of hair removal in almost all human cultures stretching back to the Neolithic era1. In fact, ancient Egyptians reportedly used a depilatory made from tortoise shell, hippo fat, and burnt lotus leaves.
Fortunately, in modern times we have simpler hair removal options, many of which are quite effective. Choosing the right hair removal method for you can be tricky. We broke down the facts of each hair removal method to help you face the summer without fear!
Hair, Hair, Everywhere
All mammals have hair. Body hair is healthy and perfectly normal. But for some, body hair may become excessive, grow in unwanted locations, or become uncomfortable. If this sounds like you, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about managing unwanted body hair.
What Causes Excess Body Hair?
Although body hair is normal, there are some factors that may cause excessive or unusual hair growth. These causes include
- Genetics
- Hormones
- Medical conditions such as polycystic ovarian syndrome
- Certain medications, such as steroids
While there is nothing you can do about your genes, the other factors can be addressed! Start by talking to your doctor about any medications, health conditions, or hormonal changes that may be impacting your hair growth. Your healthcare provider can assess whether there are any treatable issues underlying your unwanted hair.
Identifying the causes of unwanted hair is a great first step towards solving your body hair problems and feeling more confident this summer!
How To Remove Unwanted Hair
We all want to look great and feel confident for swimsuit season, but the hair removal struggle did not originate in the age of bikinis and booty shorts. Hair removal has been practiced throughout most of human history.
People have always removed their hair, be it for cultural or religious reasons, hygienic purposes (such as to combat lice), or simple aesthetics. Whatever your reasons for removing body hair, you need to find the right removal technique for you.
Epilation and Depilation
There are two main categories of hair removal. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Epilation
Epilation refers to processes that remove the entire hair, including the portion below the skin. Examples are waxing and plucking. Epilation may last longer compared to surface level hair removal because the entire hair, including the root, is removed. However, the processes can be painful.
Depilation
Depilation refers to methods which remove the hair above the skin only. This category includes shaving and depilatory creams. Depilation requires more frequent treatments than epilation, but is less painful.
Both methods can result in ingrown hairs and skin irritation if applied improperly. Which technique you choose will depend on your skin, hair, and lifestyle.
Choosing a Hair Removal Method
A few factors may come into play when deciding on a hair removal method. Some treatments may not be as effective on thicker hair, or may cause irritation in those with sensitive skin. Additionally, since both hair thickness and skin sensitivity can vary across different parts of the body, different techniques may work better for different areas.
Some things to keep in mind are:
- Skin type. Is your skin sensitive? Are you prone to breakouts or ingrown hairs? Considering your skin’s unique needs is essential for effective hair removal.
- Location on the body. Different regions of the body will have different needs when it comes to epilation and depilation.
- Hair thickness. Thick, coarse hair is tougher to remove than fine, thin hair.
- Time between treatments. Can your lifestyle accommodate daily shaving? Or does a biweekly waxing work better for you? Choose the method that works best with your life. A hair growth inhibitor can play a key role here–more on that later!
If all that seems complicated, not to worry! We lay out the facts about each method below so you can choose the right technique for you.
Shaving
Shaving is by far the most common way to remove unwanted hair. Since shaving cuts the hair off at the skin, it is categorized as a depilatory. Shaving works well for larger areas such as legs, however the hair grows back quickly compared to some other methods.
Shaving has the advantage of being a quick and easy at-home solution. Unfortunately, however, shaving can be hard on sensitive skin. Making sure you are using a fresh blade, exfoliating, and moisturizing can reduce symptoms such as irritation and ingrown hairs.
Shaving may have its drawbacks, but it cannot be beat when it comes to convenience and simplicity.
Depilatory Creams
Get out those short shorts! Depilatory creams chemically dissolve hair at skin level. They are a popular choice for both body and facial hair. These hair-removing creams can leave your skin feeling silky smooth! The drawback of depilatory creams, however, is the potential for skin irritation caused by the chemicals in the product.
Depilatory creams are formulated differently for different parts of the body, so it is important to check the label to be sure you are using the correct product for the job. Never leave the product on longer than the recommended time, as it could cause, redness, burns, or irritation.
To avoid side effects, always follow the directions closely.
Waxing
Waxing is an epilator method that involves applying hot wax to the skin and then removing it with a porous strip. When the wax is removed, the hair goes with it, pulling out below the skin level. Waxing can be used anywhere on the body and works with most types of hair. It is especially popular for the removal of pubic hair and facial hair in women.
The secret to the popularity of waxing is its long-lasting results. Hair will take more time to reappear after waxing than with most other methods. This means more time between treatments and fewer opportunities for unwanted side effects.
Although waxing is an effective and long-lasting method, care must be taken as this process can cause irritation, burns, or infection. Those who use wax treatments at home should follow the directions carefully to avoid skin damage. Some people also find waxing too painful or uncomfortable to tolerate.
Sugaring
Sugaring involves applying a sugary paste to the skin and removing it with a porous strip. Similar to waxing, when the strip is removed the hair is removed also. Sugaring is gentler and less painful than waxing, and is popular among those with sensitive skin.
This all-natural method works particularly well with fine or sparse hair. However, it may not have the power needed to tackle coarse hair. In addition, since sugaring may not always remove the entire hair, it does come with a risk of ingrown hairs. Sugaring also requires more frequent upkeep than waxing.
Threading
Some people swear by threading! Threading is a method of hair removal that uses twisted strings to remove unwanted hair. This traditional Indian technique is especially popular for eyebrows.
Drawbacks of threading include pain and possible ingrown hairs. Threading works better for smaller areas of hair–this is not the technique for your whole body! When making your threading appointment, be sure to choose a qualified, trained practioner.
Plucking
A good pair of tweezers is essential for tidying edges and snagging stray hairs. Plucking is fantastic for eyebrows and the occasional unwanted straggler. It is not practical for larger areas, however, and can also cause ingrown hairs and irritation.
To make tweezing easier and less painful, always pluck after a warm shower or bath. Reduce ingrown hairs by making sure to moisturize and exfoliate regularly.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal method that involves zapping each individual hair follicle to destroy the hair. Electrolysis requires multiple visits to be successful.
Electrolysis might be a good choice if you have a specific area you want to target with a permanent solution. Electrolysis can be used anywhere on the body, but is typically only applied to smaller areas, such as the upper lip, due to the one-hair-at-a-time nature of the process.
While electrolysis can be somewhat painful and time consuming, it can be a great choice for permanently removing small areas of unwanted hair.
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is another more long-term hair removal solution. In this method, high heat lasers are used to target the hair, damaging the follicle and inhibiting regrowth. While laser hair removal is not considered permanent, it can significantly reduce hair growth. Maintenance treatments may be required after your initial course of treatment.
Like electrolysis, laser hair removal requires a commitment to multiple appointments to get results. Be sure to follow any instructions from your provider. Possible unwanted side effects of laser hair removal include
- Inflammation
- Discoloration
- Swelling
- Discomfort
These effects should appear immediately after treatment. Normally any side effects will improve on their own.
Laser hair removal is perfect for those who want a long-term solution to their hair woes without the pain associated with electrolysis2.
Hair Growth Inhibitors
With all the hard work that goes into removing unwanted hair, it is no wonder there is a demand for more long-term solutions. One great way to boost your hair removal routine is with a hair growth inhibitor.
A good hair growth inhibitor can help to increase time between your hair removal treatments of choice. With the right inhibitor, you can achieve long term hair removal without lasers or other intensive techniques.
Hair growth inhibitors disrupt hair growth using chemicals, most often naturally occurring plant enzymes. Hair growth inhibitors are available both as a prescription and over the counter. They usually come in a topical form, although some hair growth inhibitors are also available in pill form.
By using a quality hair growth inhibitor in addition to your regular hair removal routine, you can reduce the appearance of unwanted hair significantly.
Ultra Hair Away
For a highly effective, scientifically formulated hair growth inhibitor, try Ultra Hair Away. Ultra Hair Away is a topical solution designed to reduce unwanted hair regrowth at the root. Simply applying Ultra Hair Away after your normal hair removal method will disrupt the growth process, leading to less hair in the future.
Ultra Hair Away can be used anywhere on the body. It is equally effective on the face, legs, arms, back, chest, bikini line–anywhere you are removing unwanted hair! Ultra Hair Away targets the hair follicle and prevents hair regrowth, allowing more time between hair removal sessions. This leading hair growth inhibitor for both men and women will show results within a week.
Ultra Hair Away is a convenient and effective way to reduce the appearance of unwanted body hair. That means less shaving and waxing and more time in the sun!
Live Hair-Free This Summer!
Unwanted or excessive body can cause feelings of shame, embarrassment, or discomfort, particularly during swimsuit season. Although body hair is normal, if it is holding you back from truly enjoying your summer, it is time to take control.
Do not let unwanted body hair make you feel ashamed and insecure this summer! Many people struggle with hair removal, but there are solutions that can help you take charge of your body hair.
With the right hair removal method for you and a high-quality hair growth inhibitor such as Ultra Hair Away, you can be free from persistent stubble and all the headaches that come with it. Now get out that bikini and get ready for summer fun!
Now that you’ve got your unwanted hair woes out of the way, focus more on your skin with our article, “Naturally Boost Your Skin’s Antioxidants This Summer” for flawless skin in 2022.
Endnotes
1. https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/1989/05/26/hair-removal-in-history/85eb869b-29e4-42e4-97ee-eaf85b90adb2/
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/laser-hair-removal/about/pac-20394555
