Wave: You smoothie!
Holly Cozens looks at hair removal options
Why wax?
Many people, both men and women, find waxing to be their preferred method of hair removal. By removing the whole hair follicle instead of just what grows beyond the surface, waxing gives you longer-lasting smooth skin and reduces irritation for when the hair grows back. A benefit of waxing is you are not tending to these areas with a razor every other day in the shower. Also, some claim the thickness of the hair regrowth decreases the more regularly you wax. But waxing may not be for everyone. If you have a particularly low tolerance for pain, this treatment can be quite uncomfortable. However, professional spas and beauticians have now introduced different forms of wax like hot wax and soya to try and ensure less painful experiences. If you think you can handle this method of hair removal every four to six weeks, then give it a try.
Shaving the way
Possibly the most painless of all hair removal options, shaving is definitely a popular choice with both men and women. Fast, cheap and portable, shaving is convenient whether you are at home or on holiday. Major shaving brands are constantly developing new types of razors to improve performance and to rival other methods by focusing on smoothness and reduced irritation.
These promises of improvement are not enough to keep some people with a razor in their hand. Since shaving does not affect the hairs any deeper than the surface, regrowth is much quicker and is time consuming for a smoother upkeep in the long term. Blades can also irritate the skin and cause itching if areas are not looked after properly. Choose a shaving gel or foam for sensitive skin to prevent irritation, and replace your blade if it doesn’t glide smoothly, as a dull blade can cause a rash. Bear in mind that shaving alone is unlikely to reduce thickness of hair when regrowing. If that particular issue enters into your hair removal choice choose waxing or IPL.
IPL can make it permanent
At the very mention of the phrase ‘permanent hair removal’, I’m sure many of us are already trying to convince ourselves and others what a money-saving investment Intense Pulsed Light treatment would be. Although laser hair removal cannot technically guarantee the removal of every single hair in the treated area, many women and men testify that it dramatically reduces hair regrowth, deeming it incredibly effective. Imagine, four or five treatments followed by no more worrying about the next wax or shave. Major high street brands have also recently released their own at-home versions to buy making it a more accessible and affordable option, but if you are unsure of IPL visit a professional clinic.
IPL treatment is more expensive and the results differ between individuals and the treated area. Whether it’s the neck, chest, underarms or legs, laser hair removal is an increasingly popular choice, even more so with the home versions. With how much money I will spend on razors and salon appointments over the next 40 years, IPL could prove to be a wise choice.
