In reality, 100% hair removal is not possible. However, certain devices are certified by the FDA for permanent hair reduction or removal. This article provides a brief overview about permanent hair removal at home.
Raw papaya glue is a popular natural remedy for removing unwanted hair. Mix two tablespoons of crushed raw papaya, and mix it with half a teaspoon of turmeric powder. Apply on the skin and rinse after 20 minutes. Repeat once a week.
Just like various other beauty rituals, the origin of the practice of hair removal has been traced back to the period of Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. This practice has been linked to social, cultural, religious, and aesthetic factors. Nowadays, hair removal has become an indispensable beauty ritual, which is practiced through various methods. Most people, especially women, opt for permanent hair removal methods, to avoid frequent visits to the salon. How about some devices that can be used in the privacy of your home?
DIY Permanent Hair Removal Methods
For many, beauty lies in a clean and clear skin with no traces of hair. In order to achieve this look, they try different hair removal products available in the market. However, most of these products do not offer long-term results. Though permanent hair removal methods are more popular, they are expensive. Electrolysis and laser hair removal cannot be done at home, like shaving or waxing. Nowadays, laser hair removal home kits and home electrolysis kits are available in the market. These devices are claimed to be safe and effective.
Laser Hair Removal Home Kits
Highly concentrated light energy is used for this type of hair removal. The pigments in hair follicles absorb the light, which weakens the hair roots. Eventually, the follicles are destroyed and the hair fall off. Though this is one of the most effective methods for permanent hair removal, repeated treatment is required for significant results. According to the FDA, laser devices are effective for permanent hair reduction. According to the Mayo Clinic, laser hair removal devices are effective for slowing down the rate of hair growth, but permanent hair removal cannot be guaranteed. Permanent hair reduction is possible with repeated use. However, the hair count may get reduced up to 80%.
Laser hair removal is more effective for fair skinned people with dark hair. It may not work for dark skinned people, but devices with longer wavelengths are said to be useful for them. Laser hair removal may not be effective for people with gray or red hair. This method may also cause side effects, like swelling, redness, blistering, skin lightening or darkening, etc. Most of these adverse reactions subside on their own.
When it comes to at-home laser hair removal devices, you may come across different brands. Most of them are approved by the FDA as safe for use at home. These machines are expensive, but are beneficial, when compared to the rates charged by cosmetic surgeons and professionals. The added advantage is that you can get your hair removed in the privacy of your home. These machines can be used on the body and face to retard and reduce the rate of hair growth. With multiple treatments, permanent hair reduction can be achieved. Though they are certified as safe and effective, it is advisable to buy such devices only after consulting a dermatologist. Get one according to the skin type of the user. Proper use is recommended for minimizing pain and other side effects that are associated with laser hair removal. According to some health experts, such hair removal treatments must be done by licensed and board-certified cosmetic surgeons.
Home Electrolysis Kits
Like laser hair removal, electrolysis is also popular as a method of permanent hair removal. In this method, electric current is used to destroy hair follicles. A metal probe is used for destroying hair follicles one by one. So electrolysis can be a cumbersome procedure, because multiple sittings are required to achieve significant results. The FDA has approved electrolysis as a method for permanent hair removal.
However, improper usage of home electrolysis machines may cause scarring and permanent skin damage. Some hair follicles may not respond to this treatment. One reason is their altered shapes, due to previous tweezing or waxing. Electrolysis is time-consuming too. You must have enough time and patience, along with some knowledge regarding proper use of the device. When compared to professional treatment, at-home electrolysis may cause side effects that last longer. Improper usage may also affect the effectiveness of the device.
These devices have to be operated carefully, according to the instructions of the manufacturer. Some of these products are also useful for permanent facial hair removal at home. But it is always better to use it on the legs and hands first, that too on the lowest setting. For best results, it is always better to get it done at a certified clinic.
Medication
There are certain topical medication that are claimed to be useful for hair removal. The most popular among them is ‘vaniqa’, which has to be applied twice a day to slow down hair growth. The drawbacks of this medicine is that it is prescribed for women, and is found to be useful for facial hair only. Once you discontinue its use, hair growth will resume as normal. This cream may cause some side effects, especially for those who have sensitive skin. So it is always advisable to use it with the consent of your health care provider. At-home permanent hair removal products include oral medication too. Though these drugs may reduce hair growth, it is not possible to remove hair permanently. Most of these medicines are aimed at hindering production of certain hormones, which are responsible for hair growth in various parts of the body. But self medication is not at all advisable. They may also cause side effects. It is always better to go for other hair removal methods rather than using oral and topical medication, unless prescribed by a qualified health care provider.
Home Remedies
Though it is difficult to achieve permanent hair removal using natural products, some of them are claimed to be effective. Thanaka powder is very popular as a natural remedy for removing unwanted hair. This powder that is prepared from the bark of thanaka tree, is mixed with safflower oil. The paste is applied over the skin and left overnight. It is said that this remedy is effective for hair removal, if used regularly for a period of three to four months.
Turmeric is another natural remedy that is said to be useful for hair removal. Mix ground turmeric with water or milk and apply the paste on the skin. Rinse off after 20 to 30 minutes. Use regularly for best results. A paste made of basil leaves and the transparent membranes found in onions is also said to be beneficial for reducing unwanted hair growth. While natural remedies may work for some people, effectiveness of these products cannot be guaranteed.
In short, at-home laser or electrolysis devices may prove useful for permanent hair reduction, provided they are used properly and safely. Most of these devices are effective for reducing hair growth. Avoid using medication, especially those meant for oral intake. Use such medicines, only if they are prescribed by a doctor.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert advice.
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