Hair Removal Methods

Threading (temporary) An ancient method still widely used from Africa to Asia. Professional Electrolysis (permanent hair removal for most) Galvanic, thermolysis, and blend: medically proven for over a century. Do-It-Yourself Electrolysis (possibly permanent-- skill required) Cons and pros of attempting electrolysis on yourself. Waxing and Sugaring (temporary) Done by pros or with home use kits. Tweezing/Plucking Using forceps to epilate one or a few hairs at a time. Rotary epilators (temporary) Small electric devices with motorized heads that cause rapid epilation. Do-It-Yourself Laser/IPL Home-use laser and IPL devices. Prescription oral medications Drugs that can reduce hair, but often have other side effects. Shaving/Trimming (temporary) Devices that cut hair at or above the skin’s surface. Prescription topical (Vaniqa) The only topical cream cleared by FDA to make claims of hair growth inhibition. Depilatories and Shaving Powders (temporary) Products that dissolve hair above the skin’s surface. Friction (temporary) Products used to rub or buff away any hair above the skin. Laser hair removal (permanent hair reduction for some, depending on type used) General information about laser hair removal.