Applying Pain-Reducing Gels

Since waxing stings the skin, many waxers use pain-reducing gels (usually 4% lidocaine) that are specially formulated to penetrate intact skin. The pain-reducing gels are applied 30-60 minutes before waxing. The special lidocaine provides an effective numbing action during the waxing procedure. The gel is formulated so that it does not interfere with the waxing procedure or reduce the adhesion of the wax to the hair.

A moderately thick layer of lidocaine gel works best (about 0.4 grams of gel per 10 square centimeters of skin). Usually, the skin above the upper lip or eyebrow area will be sufficiently numb to perform waxing without discomfort after 30 minutes. Other areas, such as the legs or bikini areas may take longer, 45-60 minutes. The gel is often covered with occlusive plastic wraps, such as Saran Wrap, Cellophane Film, Tegaderm or Flexi-film, which promote the penetration of the anesthetic numbing agent into the skin. This wrapping is especially useful for skin areas with less skin blood supply like the legs. The longer the application time, the deeper and more complete the degree of analgesia.

The lidocaine gels should not be applied inside the eyes and contact with the eyes should be strongly avoided. If contact with the eyes does occur, flush the eyes with saline solution or with water. Before waxing, it is recommended to wipe the area with a clean, moist towelette.

A somewhat different pain-reducing gel that is used by many waxing salons is EMLA® cream. It contains a combination of 2.5% lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine. It is a prescription product from Astra Pharmaceuticals costing about $40 per 1 oz. jar.

Physical Hair Removal - Sugar Waxing

Sugar waxing is a popular form of hair removal that works in the same way traditional waxing does. A thick sugary substance similar to caramel is spread on the skin in the direction of hair growth. The hair becomes embedded in the caramel. A cloth or paper strip is patted onto the caramel and then pulled off quickly in the opposite direction of the hair growth, pulling the hairs out of the follicles. The advantage of this method over traditional waxing is the clean up. The sugar substance is water-soluble and can be removed easier than wax by rinsing with water.

Permanent Methods

If you're seeking permanent hair removal, you have several imperfect options. A number of methods have been developed that use chemicals, energy of varying types, or a combination to target the areas that regulate hair growth. Permanently destroying these areas while sparing surrounding tissue is a difficult challenge. I recommend relying on a body of published, peer-reviewed scientific evidence to ensure the effectiveness of a method.

* Permanent hair removal for most
o Electrolysis
* Permanent hair reduction for some
o Laser hair removal
o Flashlamp
* Lasting hair inhibition for many (requires continuous use)
o Prescription oral medications
o Prescription topical preparation (Vaniqa)
* Restricted methods
o X-ray (banned in the United States)
o Photodynamic therapy (experimental)
* Doubtful methods
o Electric tweezers
o Transdermal or transcutaneous hair removal
o Photoepilators
o Microwaves
o Dietary supplements
o Nonprescription topical preparations