If you're looking for a new hair removal product or system, there are many things you need to consider. Do you want something inexpensive that you can use in the shower? How big of a budget do you have in mind? Get answers to some of your questions before you buy.
Getting Started with Hair Removal
Men and women tend to think of razors when considering hair removal options. Both traditional and electronic razors have a number of benefits, but some users find that razors only remove that hair for a few days. Others like using an epilator, and some find that a depilatory cream or lotion works best for them. You may want to try several options before selecting the right one for you.
Types of Hair Removal
- Traditional razor. A traditional razor is one of the more popular options, and manufacturers make these razors with moisturizing strips that hydrate the skin and provide a smoother shave. Hair stubble will usually appear within 24 hours, and you'll need to shave regularly.
- Electric razor. Electric razors use either a battery or plug right into the wall. These razors do not require any special shaving cream, and you can use the razors on bare skin. Many find that electric razors do not leave skin as smooth as traditional razors do.
- Depilatory cream. With depilatory creams, you apply a thick and even layer of the cream to your skin, let it sit for a period of time and wash it away with water. Depilatory creams remove hair from beneath the surface of the skin, but many people don't like the harsh scent of the creams.
- Epilator. An epilator can remove dozens of hairs in seconds. This small device pulls hair out from beneath the surface of the skin and can work faster than an electric razor, but some find that the process is quite painful.
- Waxes. Whether you opt for professional waxing or waxing at home, the process is the same. You apply hot wax to the skin, place cotton strips on the wax and pull the wax off, which removes the hair it touches. Not only is waxing painful, but it only works when your hair is on the longer side.
- Laser treatments. Professional hair removal experts can use laser treatments to remove excess hair from your body. The machine uses a high frequency of light that essentially kills the hair follicle and prevents the hair from growing back. It might take multiple treatments before you see any results, and scarring may occur.
- Electrolysis. Electrolysis uses a needle and sound waves to remove unwanted hair. It often involves several treatments and is sometimes painful.
Features of Hair Removal Products
Hair removal options come in a number of different types, and many of these remedies share little in common. Before bringing home a new device or meeting with a professional, give some thought to the various features available.
- Blades. Many hair removal products feature one or more razor blades. You generally want one that has at least three to five blades for a better shave.
- Battery powered vs. electric power. A battery powered device uses AA or AAA batteries, but some newer models have a rechargeable battery. Other devices require constant power from a nearby outlet.
- Cleaning. When choosing a product for home use, make sure that you can easily clean it on your own with a little warm water and soap without needing any special cleaning products.
- Application. You want to consider how you need to apply or use different products. Some products require more time and space than others.
- Hot vs. cold waxing. Hot wax requires that you heat the wax before applying it to your skin, while cold wax lets you apply the product right away.
- Home or professional use. Professional treatments often offer better results than you can get at home, but home products are more convenient and let you take care of unwanted hair in between visits to your salon.
The Brand Names in Hair Removal
When you shop for hair removal products, you'll come across several brand names, including Conair, Remington, Wahl and Panasonic. Wahl often focuses on hair removal products designed for men, while Conair offers more products for women. Panasonic and Remington offer many of the same products, including hair clippers and nose hair trimmers.