Permanent Hair Removal

Are you getting tired of constantly waxing, shaving, plucking and sees permanent hair removal as a form of redemption? If you think permanent hair removal is going to solve all your hair woes forever, be prepared for the truth though. There is NOTHING that’s really permenant.

“Huh? You mean permanent hair removal is not really permanant?” Yes, you’ve heard it right. A lot of the popular hair removal methods you see in the market nowadays only curb hair growth for a certain period of time. After which, you’d probably have to go through another course of treatment. That’s why most people in the hair removal industry choose to define “permanent” as being able to last at least 12 months without having to shave again.

Hmm… 12 months probably isn’t long enough to ascertain real permanence, isn’t it? But imagine saving loads of time and hassle waxing, shaving and plucking for a full year! Most people would be happy to just stick to one course of treatment every 12 months. I know I would.

Assuming you adopt the industry definition of permanence, you’ll be surprised how limiting your options will be. Not only because there aren’t many techniques that can completely destruct the hair follicle’s ability to regenerate and grow hair clinically. But also due to the fact that people respond differently to different treatments. Some patients may have regrowth in less than a year whereas a minority don’t even respond to the treatment at all! Let’s compare some of the most commonly perceived permanent hair removal products and assess their viability.

Popular Perceived Methods of Permanent Hair Removal

(1) Electrolysis

If you’ve been asking “Is electrolysis a permanent type of hair removal?”, the answer is yes! In fact, electrolysis is the ONLY method that’s clinically proven to remove one’s hairs permanently for most people. But only if it’s administered correctly. Or you’ll run the risk of scarring!

This technique makes use of a light ray that penetrates through the skin’s surface to pinpoint a hair follicle without damaging the skin. Heat created via this light ray destroys the hair follicle. Patients have successfully used this method to curb hair growth for periods ranging from three to a year. Though hair will eventually grow back, this is still a relatively great option for people with active lifestyles. Do be aware that several sessions are often required to achieve this effect. Especially if you’re covering a large patch since it’s actually done on a per hair basis. They’re also pretty costly. Some electrologists have known to charge at least $500 for each treatment! So if your budget’s slightly on the tighter side, you may want to consider other alternatives. Some people may also find this method rather painful.

(2) Laser & Flash Lamp

If you’re one of those who wants to know “Is laser hair removal permanent?”, the answer will probably shock you. Contrary to popular belief, laser treatments doesn’t permanently remove your hairs. Instead, it permanently reduces them. Huh? Permanently reduce? What’s the difference?

Clinical testing has proven that laser treatments can lighten the colour and reduce the size of the hair strands. It doesn’t destroy the hair follicle like Electrolysis. What it does is targeting the pigmentation within hair follicles and thereby works best for people with darker hair and lighter skin tones. The good news is newer laser technology seems to have the ability to target dark black hair even in clients with darker or tanned skin tones. Because it covers a relatively larger area in a shorter span of time, laser treatments tend to be more popular than electrolysis nowadays. For example, it only takes about 15 to 30 minutes for the beard area. Compare that with electrolysis!

Flash lamp treatments such as the very popular Intense Pulsed Light (”IPL”) hair removal achieves similar effects as laser except that – it’s relatively cheaper and faster. There has been debates over its effectiveness as opposed to laser but the differences has been pretty minimal. IPL is also used for skin treatments, popularly known as the photorejuvenation procedure.

(3) Oral Prescriptions

Several drugs prescriptions has been known to inhibit the growth of hair. Though they’ve been pretty effective for some consumers, it is still advisable to consult your doctor before resorting to such oral prescriptions. After all, you’ll never know what side effects you may encounter. Some of these common medication includes Finasteride (marketed as Propecia and Proscar), Gonadotrophin releasing hormone agonists, Spironolactone (Aldactone), Flutamide, Ketoconazole.

(4) Prescriptive Topical Creams and Products.

Prescriptive only topical ointment such as Vaniqa has often been mistook with depilatories. But they’re not. Depilatories are usually akaline (sometimes acideic too) concoctions that impacts the hair’s protein structure and rapidly dissolves it so that you can just wipe it away from the skin. Topical ointment on the other hand, slows down the hair growth by restraining an enzyme which is responsible for that.

Such topical ointment are not without its limitations. For starters, they may not work for everyone. And even if they do, you’ll probably have to use it together with shaving and plucking to achieve an optimal effect. In the case of Vaniqa, only unpregnant women above the age 12 are given the go ahead to use it on acne (and broken skin) free face and chin. You need to apply it twice a day and use it for about 1 to 2 months before you’ll see any results. It’ll continues to retard hair growth for about 2 months once you stop using it.

Not really a permanent hair removal method per say but well, it’s still better than shaving, plucking and waxing every other day!

Great. So now you know that electrolysis hair removal treatments is the only permanent hair removal solution around. What’s next? Should you opt for electrolysis over others? Or should you go for other newer technologies such as laser treatments and flash lamp options like IPL?

Before you take out your credit card, let’s explore more about electrolysis hair removal treatments shall we?

How Electrolysis Hair Removal Treatments Works

Electrolysis was first used in 1857 by Dr Charles E Michel (1833 – 1913), a St Louis, Missouri ophthalmologist for the removal of ingrown eyelashes. By the year 1916, it has developed into a common hair removal procedure amongst various methods of enhancing beauty.

During the procedure, a small needle will be inserted into the hair follicle and run through with some form of electric current. What it does is to completely destroy the unwanted hair roots and keep it from growing back within a prolonged period of time. That period tend to differs for different individuals but it’s averaging anywhere from 3 months to a year.

There are basically 3 most common types of electrolysis permanent hair removal. They are the Galvanic, Thermolysis, and blend methods. While the procedure is largely the same across all 3 types (i.e. a small needle will be inserted into the hair follicle), the type of electric current that is passed through the needle differs. Here’s a detailed explanation of each electrolysis type :

1. Galvanic Electrolysis. This process sends DC electric current through the inserted needle to the affected hair’s follicle. As it travels, a chemical reaction generate sodium hydroxie which killds the hair follicle directly. This is one of the most original methods of electrolysis and is generally applied for coarser hair strands.
2. Thermolysis Electrolysis. In this case, the electric current delivered is an higher frequency current (called AC) with thermolysis. The resulting vibration while the AC current is passing through heats up the water molecules around the hair follicles. That heat impairs the hair follicle. Although this method can be faster than the Galvanic method, it is however not as reliable.
3. Blend Electrolysis. This is a hybrid of both the Galvanic and Thermoloysis methods. Both types of AC & DC currents are run through the needle simultaneously. As a result, it’s relatively faster and clearly more effective, making it a popular choice when it comes to removing facial hair.

The Pros & Cons of Electrolysis

Even though the time taken for successful electrolysis differs for individuals, generally, the larger are of hair growth you’re looking at, the longer and costlier the electrolysis treatments will be. Why? Because each hair follicle has to be treated separately! Here are some of its other pros and cons :

Pros :

• Is probably the only option that can really claim to remove hair permanently
• Possess the longest track record for effectiveness and reliability
• Excellent for small hair growth areas such as the underarms, upper lip, chin, stomach, bikini line etc
• Not just limited to lighter skin tones or hair types

Cons :

• Need a licensed and skilled practitioner.
• Time consuming. Especially if you’re treating a large patch of hair growth area. An estimated 15 – 30 sessions is required for each course.
• Improper administration could result in scarring, hair regrowth, infection due to an unsterilized need.
• Bent follicles makes whole process much more difficult. In case you’re wondering, previous tweezing or waxing is the cause of bent follicles.
• Improper administration could result in scarring, hair regrowth, infection due to an unsterilized need.
• Relatively more expensive. Treatment costs varies but an average 30-minute session can cost about $60 and covers only a small area.
• Can be rather painful. Some people described electrolysis to be a pricking and stinging sensation. The bad part? Every follicle has to go through it.

So, Should You Go For Electrolysis Hair Removal Treatments?

Frankly, it all depends. With the introduction of other permanent hair reduction technologies such as laser and IPL, consumers like you have a lot more choices. You can opt for electrolysis, which is the probably the only method that can claim to be a permanent solution. Or chose to go for other options which although aren’t really permanent methods per say, can also help to reduce your hair growth in an acceptable long duration.

At the end of the day, your choice is largely dependent on your budget versus the effect you desire to achieve.

Laser (which stands for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiance) first became popular in the 1990s. Up until then, the highly regarded permanent hair removal solutions such as electrolysis were time consuming and expensive. Laser became an alternative. And if you’re wondering how does laser hair removal work or under what circumstances does laser hair removal work effectively, read on.

The laser hair removal technology makes uses of an invisible light beam and the constant heat generated to penetrate the skin and removes the hair follicle from its root without harming the skin surface. The laser beam first sources for the hair follicle by detecting its melanin. Melanin is the dark pigmentation in the hair. Then it directs the laser beam at its root to destroy it.

Although the laser process is swift and precise, there are chances that it can be irritating to the skin. Therefore, it’s not uncommon for practitioners to apply the affected skin with a cooling gel, spray throughout the process. These substances further prevent the laser beam from causing distress on the skin.

4 Different Methods Used In Laser Hair Removal

There are currently four types of FDA approved lasers used for permanent hair reduction (instead of the commonly confused as a permanent hair removal solution):

1. Ruby Lasers such as those used in the the EpiTouch or Epilaser laser hair removal system uses infrared, a shorter wavelength form of light ray and hence uses more energy in its process. It’s the oldest technology, can’t be used on darker and tanned skins and functions best for light and fine hair. With the advent of newer laser technologies that can handle darker skin tones with a much larger coverage, Ruby lasers have gradually lost its popularity in the market.
2. Alexandrite. The laser hair removal system, Candela GentleLase Plus uses this. Fastest of all laser methods, Alexandrite uses a slightly longer wavelength as compared to the Ruby. Because of that, it’s able to touch on a larger body area. People with light to olive complexions has reported favourable results with it, although it’s still restricted to treating light skin tones with dark hair. This is one of the most widely deployed laser method for hair removal.
3. Diode (used in the Coherent Light Sheer system). Because its wavelength is much longer than both Alexandrite and Ruby lasers, Diode are able to penetrate much deeper and is great for darker skin tones but still less effective when it comes to finer, lighter hair. It can treat large areas at fast repetition speed.
4. ND and LP ND Yag such as the Candela GentleYag and the Altus Cool Glide. It can be used safely in different skin types, even dark and tanned people. It’s also used for pigmented lesion treatment and tattoo removal. Large areas can be covered at fast repetition speed. However, it’s not as good when it comes to treating lighter, finer hair as compared to other lasers. More discomfort during the process are also experienced by patients who’ve used this laser.

So, Does Laser Hair Removal Work? What’s It’s Effectiveness?

Since melanin is also found in the skin, people with darker or tanned skins tend to be less suitable for laser hair removal. Blond or red haired people also have less favourable results since the laser is only attracted to the hair’s dark pigmentation. However, newer technologies such as the ND Yag lasers have more or less mitigated that. It’s also noticed that laser hair removal is most effective on hair follicles that are relatively active, a phase that experts call the anagen phase. During that phase. an estimated 85% of our hair are active at any point of time and are hence easier to destroy comparatively.

Things to Consider Before Opting for Laser Hair Removal

1. The Skill & Knowledge Of The Technician. Even though it’s the laser that actually destructs the hair follicle, the success of an good laser hair removal process is also dependent on the practitioner. The better skilled the technician is, the likelihood of good results is also much higher. Although there are laser hair removal clinics that charges lower rates, it’s also important for you to assess their expertise to ensure you’re getting true value for what you’re paying for!
2. The Colour Of Your Skin Tones & Nature Of Hair Texture. As reiterated earlier, the colour of your skin tone will determine the type of laser to go for as well as your expectation of the results. Frequency and energy levels of the laser can differ based on your skin type. Longer pulsed laser are hence safer since you allow more time between light pulses for both the follicle and skin to cool down. This also makes your experience much more manageable and pleasant.
3. The Size of Your Treatment Zone. Since this impacts the penetration and speed levels of the laser, the technician is able to work deeper into the follicle’s root easier with a larger treatment area. That may in turn give you higher satisfaction per session.
4. Your Budget. Like the electrolysis, laser hair removal is not a one-time procedure. You may require a few sessions which can cost you as much as $400 each. The perceived value then comes from the savings of time from waxing, shaving and the money that goes towards buying such related products. And not to forget the personal gratification that comes from a renewed interpretation of your self image. A tradeoff between such perceived value versus the actual cost is necessary before opting for the laser treatments or a different

An important consideration affecting one’s decision to opt for the laser route is its cost. So, how much does laser hair removal costs?

Different variables influence how laser hair removal clinics set their prices. And that includes the type of laser you’re opting for, the size (or location) of the treatment zone, the number of sessions required, the location of the clinic or the mode of payment selected etc. For example, a customer making a lump sum payment in advance may be entitled to discounts that one on the monthly installment plan wouldn’t get to enjoy.

People are often attracted to the cheapest plan but the conventional wisdom “you get what you’re paying for” still holds. Make sure you research for the option that gives you the most value. Not just the lowest prices. Here are some steps to help you research on the best value packages :

(1) Understand the 3 Basic Pricing Structures

It’s important for you to first understand the different pricing structures so that you can have a baseline for comparison later. Even though laser hair removal pricing structures differ across the board, there are 3 common ways clinics use to ascertain the cost for the specific client :

1. Flat Fee. A flat fee may be charged either on a per treatment or a package of treatments basis. For example, removing unwanted facial hair can be $300 per treatment regardless of the amount of hair or only for particular type of hair growth patterns. Some clinics might also charge a series of treatments for a flat fee. And that may or may not be dependent on the customer’s hair growth patterns.
2. Time Required. Some laser clinics charge in every 15 minute blocks. Just like the electrolysis hair removal permanent treatments. If a clinic charge $125 for every 15 minutes spent and removing leg hair takes about half an hour, it would cost the customer about $250 for each treatment. How fast the technician (together the laser) can accomplish the task on the amount of hair to be removed, will in turn influence the price.
3. Charge For Every Pulse. This is a more complicated pricing method that’s based on the number of pulses required to completely treat the specific area of body hair. An activation of the laser is “a pulse.” Each pulse can take away about a hundred strands of hair and lasts about 1 second. The area of each pulse is dependent on the laser’s spot size. Assuming that a clinic charge $1.50 for each pulse with a minimum flat fee, removing armpit hair may cost up to $170 with a flat rate of $100 for the first 50 and $1.50 for each pulse after. You’ll realize that your cost for each progressive treatment will be gradually lower since the hair to be removed is lesser.

(2) Determine the Size of Your Preferred Treatment Zone

Once you’re clear about the possible pricing structures, determine the size and location of your preferred treatment zone. Many customers have vague ideas about this and are often easily cajoled by the consultant to go for a bigger treatment area which may add up to their cost estimates. Be firm about where you want the hair removal to be done, while taking note of the recommendations they provide in the quote later. More importantly, this information helps you estimate the number of treatments with the use of the average body hair chart. You can find this average body hair chart by googling on the internet. This in turn will help you calculate at the estimate baseline cost for each pricing

(3) Decide The Location of The Clinic

Do you prefer to have the treatment at a clinic near your office. Or somewhere available in your neighbourhood. Bear in mind that transportation costs can erode any savings you get from a cheaper clinic. Deciding on the location of the clinic can also help you narrow down the research into a manageable list of clinics later.

(4) Shortlist about 3 to 4 Clinics For the Comparison

Based on your preferred location and baseline cost, shortlist 3 – 4 laser hair removal clinics to do a more detailed comparison. You can google for a list of clinics in your area or ask your friends for any recommendations. Find out if there’s anything particularly good or bad about the clinics you’re considering. Either through online hair removal forums or from people who’ve tried their service. While you checking this out, see if the clinics are offering free trials so that you get experience the level of service before committing.

(5) Get Quotes

Once this list is finalized, you can either email, call or even pop by for a quotation. Since laser hair removal prices may differ accordingly to the person, some clinics may want to you pop by for a consultation before quoting. Make full use of this opportunity to assess the quality of the facilities and service. If there’s a free trial offered, just go for it. Remember, price isn’t the only consideration. Some people are willing to pay a premium for quality service and better technology. So, always assess your options before taking out your credit card.

Don’t forget to ask if there’s any discounts for different payment plans. Sometimes, the difference can be equivalent to the cost of an extra treatment!

(6) Make The Decision

After you’ve done the prior homework, compare your notes against your baseline. Ask yourself if you feel good about the facilities, service and if there’s a trial, the results after the first treatment. Choose the clinic that offers you the most comfort at the best value for money. They may not necessary be the cheapest. But definitely one that you’ve chosen after deep consideration and research on permanent hair removal.

Are you thinking of pubic hair removal but don’t know how to go about doing it? As far as we’re aware, there are some people seek professional services such as laser permanent hair removal or bikini line waxing to help them with it. Others handle it in the privacy of their own bathrooms. Whichever way you prefer, taking care of your pubic hair is a smart move. After all, other than just for personal grooming purposes, some people has reported a higher fluidity and sensuality of their bedroom romps. Will you have the same heightened experience? Frankly, we aren’t too sure. Different people have different results and experience with pubic hair removal. But one thing’s for sure though. Choosing the best method it is for you to prune your pubes requires a careful understanding of the various methods.

(1) Trimming

Instead of making your pubic area completely bare, you can also consider just keeping it neat and tidy. Trimming is a common solution for that. With tools such as electric trimmers or scissors, the procedure can be done conveniently in your bathroom. Maintenance is required about every 2 weeks and requires proper cleanup after the procedure. If you’re not skilled with the scissors, it’s better to just opt for the trimmers. Otherwise, you may end up with pubic hair that looks more funny than sensual and alluring.

(2) Shaving

Using the razor to remove pubic hair is a relatively common and popular option. Why? Because it’s an approach that many people are already familar with and tools are readily available. It gives your privates an immediate makeover with a smooth, clean touch. If you’re gunning for a best pubic hair removal shaving experience, try using the razor in the middle of your warm shower. You’ll have little cleaning up to do since the shower will give you an immediate wash. Unfortunately, this method is not without it’s banes. Not a permanent hair removal solution, you’ll have to keep shaving to maintain your hair removal. It can also cause skin related irritations such as razor cuts and burns. The likelihood of ingrown hair is also high.

(3) Depilatories

These are lotions or creams that melts hair near the surface of your skin so that you can easily clean up the removed hair with a wipe. It takes just 10 minutes for the whole procedure but costs slightly more than razors or trimmers. Before applying the cream on your privates, make sure you test the products to ensure you’re not allergic to it. One way to do this is to first apply the cream on the back of your wrist and monitor for 2 days if there’s any irritations such as itchiness or redness. Check with your doctor if you’ve any signs of an allergy. Since this method’s relatively pain free and easy to implement, it’s a popular solution with some people. The regrowth also appears softer and finer as compared to shaving. However, the possibility of a skin allergy and a residual side effect of unpleasant odours have also kept others looking for better alternatives on pubic hair removal.

(4) Waxing

During waxing, either hot or cold wax is spread onto the zone where hair is to be removed. It is then smoothened out with a piece of cloth or plaster pressed on it. The cloth is then ripped off, grabbing out all the hair right from its roots concurrently. Although it’s painful, expensive and only restricted to less sensitive zones on the pubic area (especially for the guys), the longer lasting effects keep people going for it. Continued waxing also makes the regrowth less coarse.

(5) Electrolysis

The only approach that’s can claim to be permanent hair removal, this is the way to go if you’re planning have your pubes bare for good. Since the pubic area is relatively small, the number of treatments is also much lesser as compared to electrolysis hair removal for the back or body. The duration of each treatment however can take many hours, depending on the skill of your aesthetician. This is because each follicle has to be treated one by one. It works well for different skin tones and hair texture but can be painful for some people. Though not as much as waxing. The main bane? It’s cost. Electrolysis pubic permanent hair removal is expensive. Period.

(6) Laser

Laser hair removal is a new technology that takes a relatively shorter time than electrolysis. However, it’s not exactly permanent hair removal per say. But regrowths, however occurs much slower as compared to waxing. There are also some limitations. For example, most lasers doesn’t work as well on light coloured hair or dark skin tones. Nonetheless, because of its efficiency and not-too-bad results reported by most patients, this technology is getting popular over the years.

With so many temporary and permanent alternatives for body and back hair removal, little wonder why one can spoilt for choice at times. All in all, regardless of what you choose eventually, it is important to understand your needs and assess the methods’ pros and cons and risk. If you’ve any doubts with respect to any method, don’t go through it until you find out more. Let’s run through some of these methods or devices :

Depilatory Cream

When applied, depilatory creams and sometimes lotions dissolve the hair near the skin and make it easy to just wipe away the removed hair. It often takes less than 10 minutes to do the job but comes with limitations and disadvantages such as sensitive skin irritations, allergies and so on. It’s not permanent hair removal and requires frequent application. What makes it popular is the fact that it’s fast and easy. You can also reach out to areas such as the back without requiring much 3rd party assistance, making back hair removal easy particularly for the busy executive.

Shaving

Another common method for body and back hair removal is shaving. It’s also easy and convenient but may create issues such as cuts and razor burns in the process. Hair regrowth can be stubby and the likelihood of getting ingrown hairs is also quite high.

Epilators

Plucking your body hair manually takes some effort. But with an epilator, this catalyzes the process. Electronic gadgets that pulls the hair out from the skin, epilators can be a good temporary method of body and back hair removal for some people. The hair doesn’t grow for several weeks. The eariler products inflict a lot of pain when used but recent developments have reportedly mitigated that. The newer products tend to numb the skin as they work through the plucking. Even very short hairs can be removed, making ingrown hairs and stubs less of an issue.

Waxing

A much faster version of plucking is waxing. Depending on the procedure, either cold or hot wax is poured onto the area concerned. A piece of cloth or plaster is later pressed on it. The aesthetician then rips the cloth off your skin, pulling out all your unwanted body or back hair from its roots at the same time. It takes little guessing to know that the method can be pretty painful. However, as it can last for a few weeks before another round of waxing is required, some people tend to go for it as an alternative to permanent hair removal.

Electrolysis

Although electrolysis is the only approach that’s really fits the permanent hair removal definition, it’s not a preferred method for body or back hair removal. Since each and every hair follicle needs to be killed via an electric current, electrolysis can take many treatments. The whole course can span from a few weeks to even a year. For body and back hair removal, since the area is much larger, it will take a while before you’ll start seeing results. It is also expensive and the higher number of treatments also means removing body or back hair via this approach may cost an arm or leg for some.

Laser

Another method that’s reported to be more efficient than electrolysis is laser. It’s great for bigger hair removal areas but has limitations when it comes to different skin tones and hair textures. Different people have also reported varying results. It’s also not permanent hair removal (more of permanent hair reduction), although it’s often been mistaken to be so. Costs is also a concern for some people thinking of opting for this approach.

You’ve decided to take up electrolysis permanent hair removal (or laser hair removal) and you’re shortlisting a few clinics for comparison. How do you go about doing it? What are the things you should take note of?

Well, although cost isn’t the only issue you should bear in mind, it’s still something that affects a lot of people. After all, neither electrolysis or laser hair removal tends to be cheap. Getting to know your options not only empowers you to make a more cost effective decision, it gives you an opportunity to find out more about the procedure(s) and assess the quality of the practitioners at the same time.

Here are some pointers you can use when drawing a list of permanent hair removal clinics for review :

(1) Getting Recommendations From Friends Who’ve Been There Done That

What better way to get such information than from people who’ve done it themselves. More often than not, they’ve already conduct the research previously. Tapping on their knowledge not only saves time, you’ll also get to hear their first account experience. If you don’t have any friends or even family who’ve tried this, ask around if anyone knows anyone who’ve done it. This may seem embarrassing initially but once you’ve passed this hurdle, you’ll realize it’s not that difficult after all.

(2) Google for Professional Online Permanent Hair Removal Forums

Running your queries through such forums gives you the fastest access to a large group of industry professionals and consumers at the same time. This will allow you to hear from both sides, giving you a more balanced view towards a particular clinic. Another great thing about them is that you can remain anonymous. Get a pseudo user id and you’re good to go.

(3) Search for Online Permanent Hair Removal Resources & Directories

Chances are, you’ve probably landed on this website using this same approach. This can also be used on hair removal directories which features recommended clinics in various geographical location. A warning though. Some of these online directories and resources requires a fee to be listed and hence the information may not be that independent. Nonetheless, it’s still a viable way to get you started.

(4) Go through Beauty & Lifestyle Magazines

This may be an effective approach. Especially if you’ve got less time on your hands. But if you’ve run out of ideas after going through the first 3 pointers above, going through some of the back issues in the library may land you with a surprise.

(5) Flip through The Yellow Pages

The last resort? Flip through the yellow pages on hair removal clinics in your area and pick those that catches your eye. Google more information about them using pointer (2). You’ll be surprised sometimes with the background information you come across.

While running through the various methods about to shortlist the clinics, continually check with your sources on the :

1. Quality & Skill of the Practitioner. Is the practitioner certified? What’s the quality of their service? The best way to find out about this is to ask someone who’ve tried their service. If the clinic offers any free trials for potential new customers, go ahead and try it. But remember to resist any temptation to sign up any packages on the spot.
2. Location. Where you’re planning for the hair removal treatment will in turn determine the extent of your research. Be it Cincinnati electrolysis permanent hair removal or Virgina, Washington DC, Alanta permanent laser hair removal Florida, it’s important to be aware of this. Trade offs on the travelling time and costs versus the actual price of the treatments need to be made so that you’ll derive at the most cost effective solution. For example, if you’re going through the hair removal treatment after work, a clinic near your office may be a better option after factoring time costs.
3. Operating Hours. Some clinics only operate on “9 to 5″ weekdays and for someone who’s planning their treatments on weekends or after office hours will have an issue. Finding out these before signing on the dotted line prevents any of such headaches in the future.
4. Payment Schemes. Some clinics offer rebates or discounts for advance payments. Others have special deals such as the a free treatment for a specific number of purchased treatments etc. Knowing your options can help you save more.
5. Free Trials. It really says a lot about a permanent hair removal clinic who offers such trial offers. They’re either confident you’ll be satisfied with their service that you’ll sign up a package on the spot. Or they’re just desperate for an opportunity to cut a sale. Regardless of which they fall under, it’s still a good opportunity for you to experience their service without an upfront commitment. However, you’ve got to be firm about not committing (before you’ve done your research) to make this work. Otherwise, you may just end up making an ineffective decision.

Some people don’t think permanent hair removal can be a reality. While technology such as electrolysis and laser has worked for some people, there are also others who don’t respond well to such treatments. The truth is, there’s no magic bullet when it comes to permanent hair removal. No method’s guaranteed to work in the long run. It’s more important therefore to get to know your own needs, match it against each method’s pros and cons and decide if something’s for you.

While doing so, you might want to ask yourself these questions :

(1) Is It A Must For You?

There are many reasons why people opt for permanent hair removal. The main one being cosmetic, of course. Women who are born with slightly dominant Testosterone hormones often seek ways to remove their facial hair. Some men may also go for it as part of their personal grooming. More often than not, this cosmetic rationale is accompanied by a strong psychological desire to uplift their own self esteem. If it can improve another person’s confidence in himself or herself, the question then becomes “why not?”.

Athletes such as swimmers may need it for professional purposes.

Although shaving daily or waxing every other month can achieve the same effect, the time, hassle and sometimes embarrassment (in the case of going to waxing saloons) can make permanent hair removal a godsend to some. It’s important to continually question yourself. Can the time and effort savings outweigh your upfront investment costs (of money, time to go for the treatments etc)? Will these really improve your lifestyle? If it’s something you can do without, perhaps giving permanent hair removal a miss isn’t such a bad idea after all.

(2) What Are Your Needs?

Where do you want hair to be removed from? Is it a small patch such as the hair on your upper lip? Or a larger zone on your legs? What’s your skin tone and the colour or thickness of your hair strands? Do you prefer to have the treatments done in the comfort of your own home? Or are you fine with going to the saloon? What’s your budget? How many sessions of treatments are you willing to subject yourself through?

Although these questions seem trivial to some people, answering them in the greatest detail will help you understand your situation better. It’s also vital that you prioritize your needs. More often than not, that may sculpt the decision you make later. For example, if budget’s a major consideration for you, you may decide to continue with waxing or shaving until you can afford to go for a laser hair removal session. If you would like the treatments to be done at home, engaging a professional to perform electrolysis may be a wiser decision. Although that may cost more.

(3) Which Method’s Suitable for You?

Once you’re aware of your needs, make an effort to find out what are the permanent hair removal methods in the market.

You will probably realize that although laser hair removal is one of the most popular, it’s more of a permanent hair reduction method. In fact, electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal solution available. You’ll also be exposed to other products such as prescriptive topical creams, oral medications alternatives for longer term hair removal.

Regardless of what you find out, tabulate these information and assess all risks, advantages and disadvantages and match it to your needs. Is that method suitable for your skin tone and colour of your hair strands? Can you afford the treatments? What are their limitations?

Finding out all the fine print and underlying issues will increase your confidence in taking the plunge. Remember, no one can make the decision for you. Only one person can. You.

Ok, you’re eager to remove unwanted hair but prefers to do it in the comfort of your own home. Instead of electrolysis, laser or other forms of saloon based hair removal services, what are your alternatives? What are the different permanent hair removal creams, products suitable?

There have been advertisements about certain permanent hair removal creams, products that claims to do the job. But are they really effective? Can they really help in permanent hair removal at home? Consumers are often so eager to check out these methods that they easily fall prey to scams or ploys to get expensive products that either have not been proven to work. Or don’t work at all. Remember, caveat emptor! Do you due diligence by checking out with your dermatologist, doctor and conducting your own independent research. Like what they always say, when something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Search for the various consumer reports on the products you’re interested in and assess if they’ll be safe for you. Consider both the pros and cons and re-validate them with the medical professionals once again.

1) Home Electrolysis Treatments

Over the recent years, home electrolysis kits have been sold over retail outlets and the internet for prices that ranges from $40 to $50. During the process, you’re required to insert an very thin metal probe into the hair follicle and run a small amount of electricity through the kit to kill the follicle. This, as most manufacturers claim, in turn results in permanent hair removal. However, most industry observers don’t recommend home electrolysis kits as most manufacturers doesn’t have solid results to prove their claim. But if you decide to go for it, make sure you get a kit that requires the insertion of the probe into the hair follicle. Otherwise, the products’ will likely result in just a temporary hair removal.

That said, it’s still highly recommend to seek a trained professional’s help when it comes to electrolysis. Be it at home or at the saloon. After all, improper administration can results in repercussions such as scarring. Besides, there are some areas that you probably can’t reach as well as someone else applying the procedure on you.

Most importantly, think of the time saved!

2) Prescriptive Topical Cream

By far, the only topical cream suitable for longer term hair removal is Vaniqa and it’s currently only available with a prescription. This ointment is often confused with depilatories which aren’t truly permanent hair removal cream per say. Depilatories work by dissolving the hair away near the skin. The hair can then be easily wiped off. It’s a conventional form of hair removal but far from permanent. You need to use them at least twice a month.

Vaniqa, on the other hand works by slowly down the speed of hair growth through restraining an enzyme responsible for that. Preferably used with shaving or plucking, this topical hair removal cream is only for women and great for removing facial hair. It must be used twice a day. Otherwise, hair regrowth will occur at its normal rate for about 2 months after discontinuation of use.

3) Oral Medicine

Several prescriptive drugs may not help in permanent hair removal at home, but has been known to inhibit the growth of hair. They work by reducing the amount of androgen hormones or testosterone that results in hair growth. Check out with your family doctor or dermatologist for a prescription to these medicines such as Propecia, Daine35 and Aldactone. Find out if there’s any possible side effects before committing to it.

You’re into your second trimester. While your tummy is growing, you notice that those unsightly hairs are showing up as well. That got you thinking. You can hardly even see your legs, how in the world are you going to shave them? What if you’ve decided to try permanent hair removal methods like electrolysis to get rid of those unwanted hair before your delivery? What are the risks? And the implications of laser hair removal and pregnancy, if there are any?

Here’s a roundup of some of the options and whether you should attempt them during your pregnancy. Please note that this should not constitute medical advice and you MUST still consult your doctors before going for any of the solutions.

Electrolysis And Pregnancy

The only bona fide permanent hair removal option in the list, electrolysis during pregnancy is to be avoided where possible. Likewise with laser hair removal and pregnancy, there aren’t any safety studies of electrolysis on pregnant mothers and the electric current’s impact on the baby. So most electrologists or health care providers would refrain from giving their stamp of approval on the procedure during pregnancy.

If you insist on going for it, it’s advisable to avoid the breasts especially when you’re in your last trimester or planning to breastfeed your baby. Skip the abdomen area if you’re in your final weeks as it can be pretty uncomfortable for that ultra sensitive zone. This applies to laser hair removal treatments as well.

There are commonly 3 types of electrolysis. The Galvanic, Thermolysis, and blend methods. The blend method is essentially a combination of the galvanic and thermolysis approaches. While the process is the same across all three (i.e. a tiny needle will be inserted into the hair, the type of current passed through makes the Galvanic approach a unsuitable procedure for pregnant ladies. Why?

Galvanic electrolysis transmit a very small electric current through the client and back to the equipment. This is NOT recommended because the foetus contains amniotic fluid which may act as a conductor of electricity in this case. Thermolysis electrolysis on the other hand doesn’t flow through the body and hence may be less harmful to both the foetus or the mother. In any case, ALWAYS check with your doctor before going for any such procedures. Just a note, many electrologists may require an official writing from your gynaecologist for authorizing the treatment during your pregnancy. So do remember to get this from your doctor if you’ve decided to proceed.

Laser Hair Removal And Pregnancy

Ok, by now you should be aware that laser hair removal aren’t really permanent solution per say. It focuses on dark pigmentation in the hair and results in damage to the hair follicle. That permanently reduces the hair regrowth. While there aren’t any official reports that details the risks and safety concerns of laser hair removal on pregnant patients and the laser’s impact on the baby, most gynaecologist or health care professionals would advise against it during your pregnancy. After all, it’s better safe than sorry, isn’t it?

Waxing

For mothers who’ve decided against any electrolysis or lasers, waxing may be a less controversial option. Different people reacts differently to the wax. If your skin’s more sensitive, you may find applying a soothing antiseptic solution before or after the waxing can help reduce the burning sensation. It may also prevent or even cut down the occurrence of potential waxing related issues such as infection, irritation, redness or itchiness.

It may be wise to doublecheck with your gynaecologist if waxing is suitable in your circumstance. Many women find the procedure painful. A few ladies may develop a unique reaction to waxing. Others may find it more lasting and easier than creams or depilatories.

Creams & Depilatories

One of the main issues with using depilatories during your pregnancy is its ingredients calcium thioglycolate and barium sulfide. Although no evidence has been found if they’re harmful for pregnant ladies, there are no studies to ascertain that they’re safe either. Should you decide to go ahead with this, make sure you test the cream on the back of your wrist. Verify 48 hours later that you don’t develop an allergic reaction.

Shaving

Chances are, this is likely the most convenient solution that appeals to you. You don’t have to worry much about potential medical side-effects that other options have. But issues such as ingrown hairs, irritation or skin burns, which may also affect non pregnant ladies are still a concern. You can try mitigating that by applying moisturizers during the shave and using specialty razors. You may also need help. For example, if you like shaving in the shower, ask your partner to hold you while you get the work done. Or simply get him to do the job. Who knows, this may end up being a great chance for the three of you to bond. Yes, the baby included.