When summer comes, hair removal time starts. This is no longer our story as most people would like to have smooth and luminous skin all year round. Removing unwanted hair with the help of epilation or depilation probably ranks as the most unpleasant beauty routine not only for women, but for men too.
With multiple options on the market, how can you really find out which method is best for you and your body?
How to make epilation less painful?
Is epilation bad for your skin?
Does epilation reduce hair growth?
How to prep skin for epilation?
All these questions you must answer for yourself before choosing the best option. Finding your favourite and most effective procedure for removing unwanted hair can be a long and winding road of trying different lotions and enduring momentary pain and accidental bloody knees, but once you find your solution, the end result is sheer bliss. Whichever method of epilation or depilation you choose, the skin should be clean to avoid any allergic reaction.
If you have only just started your journey through the various types of hair removal, we can help you decide. Although different kinds of hair removal procedures are often called ‘depilation’, you might not have heard much about epilation. As the most efficient option of hair removal, in terms of effectiveness and duration, epilation refers to removing the hair with the root. It’s the best way to keep regrowth at bay for longer. The most popular methods of epilation are waxing, sugaring, epilators and laser devices. But if we’re talking depilation, it’s about shaving and depilatory creams.
- Shaving
Most of us are probably familiar with this option of hair removal, which works by cutting off the hair at skin-level. So the hair follicle stays in place and will regrow, sometimes pretty fast. Shaving is painless as long as you are careful not to cut or nick yourself which often occurs when in a rush. Take care if your skin is very dry and use some body lotion after the procedure.
- Sugaring
Sugar, water and a little lemon juice are used for removing hair. It can look more like a skin peel when hair follicles are removed. This method has been used since the time of the ancient Egyptians and will prove a serious contender as a way to remove hair. Sugaring is suitable for all skin tones and skin types.
- Waxing
Waxing is one of the most painful options (as is sugaring), but because it involves removing hair with the root, it also takes longer to regrow. Can be used for all skin types unless you’re allergic to one of the ingredients.
- Epilating
You can use an electric device to remove more hair in one treatment. The more you use it the less it hurts and the long-term effects are worth it. During this procedure the hair follicles are removed, but capturing fine hair is hard work. It’s best used on areas that are not so sensitive.
- Depilatory creams
Does depilatory cream remove hair roots? In a word, no. It has its advantages: it's simple, cost-effective and perfect for those who would like to use it at home, but reading the label is essential. This type of epilation is the least painful, and, unlike shaving, there’s no risk of actual bloodshed. This method can be used to remove hair on large or less accessible areas but you should know that depilatory cream does not remove the hair root. Hair follicles remain alive, so will regrow very quickly. Some people, especially those with sensitive skin, can experience irritation when using depilatory creams.
- Laser
Laser hair-removal is a long-term option that involves destroying the roots with light. You have to have the procedure performed in a beauty studio, and by professionals, for the best results. Laser hair removal usually takes multiple treatments, about six to ten for optimal results, but is not recommended during the summer period or when you plan to acquire a tan. And depending on the area, it could be pretty painful. Generally, it just reduces the amount of hair and makes it finer and lighter. Beauty professionals recommend at least eight to ten treatments for a long-term result. If your excessive or unwanted hair is blonde or you have a dark skin tone, it will not remove hair as effectively as you may wish.
Every hair and skin type is individual and there’s no method that guarantees a 100% permanent result for everyone after the first procedure. Despite the variations in length and type of hair, the growth of human hair all over the body is cyclic. Some epilation types are more painful than others, while some have a higher success rate of keeping regrowth completely at bay than others. So we hope you find the perfect epilation method that suits you the best!
