Epilation

Epilation is the term used to describe mechanical removal of body hair, including the hair root, by means of mechanical device, tweezer, threading, or waxing. Epilation is the most effective method for temporarily removing hair. Waxing is the most effective method of epilation because it removes hair completely from the hair shaft in large quantities.

* Mechanical machines
Mechanical epilators have a rubber roller or coiled spring that is rotated by an electric motor. It catches the hair and pulls it out from the roots. The speed of the rollers or the coiled spring can also be adjusted in some models. The epilator may have the option of regulating the tweezer strength which can be modified according to the type of hair (coarse or fine) that needs to be removed. Hair must be about 1/4 to 1/3 inches long for the epilators to work. Epilators should be used with caution in sensitive areas such as face, genitals, or armpits because it can be extremely painful. Mechanical epilators cost anywhere from $50-$100 and results last about a week. Back to top

* Plucking
Plucking is performed using hand-held or electrical tweezers. Hand-held tweezers are best used for removing the occasional coarse hair or a small group of hairs, such as those found on the eyebrows, chin or nipples. Tweezing pulls hair out from its root, but is a very laborious method since each hair must be removed individually. Some pain, skin irritation, and inflammation of the hair follicle can occur. Tweezers cost anywhere from $3-$30 and results last about 3-8 weeks. Back to top

* Threading
Threading is an ancient method of hair removal still used in many countries in the Middle East and India. The technique involves a long loop of cotton thread that is twisted and rolled along the surface of the skin. Hair is caught within the entwined coils and pulled from their roots as the thread rolls along.

It is used to give clean lines and is good for shaping eyebrows and removing hair from the upper lip and other facial areas. It is considered to be less painful than plucking, waxing and sugaring. Back to top

* Abrasives
These work by physically rubbing away hair form the skin surface. Abrasives used include pumice stones and devices or gloves made from fine sandpaper. This method irritates the skin and is seldom used these days. Back to top

* Sugaring
Sugaring is similar to waxing but instead of using wax a sugar mixture is used. The sugar mixture is made up of sugar, lemon juice and water heated together to form a paste. Like waxing, a thin layer of sugar paste is applied to the skin and a cotton strip placed on top. The strip is then pulled back sharply against the direction of the hair growth. Sugaring is a suitable alternative to waxing for people sensitive to wax. Back to top

* Waxing
Waxing is an effective method of removing unwanted hair in both large and small areas. Waxing is one method of epilation, which means that the entire hair shaft is removed from below the skin's surface. It is one of the most effective methods for temporary hair removal.

Waxing can be painful, particularly in sensitive areas. Pain experienced, however, depends on the pain threshold of each individual. Waxing can cause redness and increase skin sensitivity for a few hours. If you're using oral retinoids (isotretinoin and acitretin), waxing should not be performed until these medications are stopped for at least 6 months to 1 year. Taking these medications and waxing may cause tearing of the skin and possible scarring. Individuals using topical retinoids (e.g. Retin A®) should stop the medication 3-4 weeks prior to.

Waxing should not be performed on skin that is irritated, sunburned or broken.