7 Types of Hair Removal Explained

55 percent of men admit to having felt embarrassed by their body hair. And this feeling of embarrassment doesn’t just affect their self-image. 

One-third of the surveyed men say they’ve avoided swimming because of their body hair while one-fourth have avoided going to the gym. And the effects don’t stop there. One-fifth say that their body hair has negatively impacted their sex life. 

Don’t let your body hair keep you from loving your body or enjoying life. Keep reading to discover the different types of hair removal methods. 

1. Shaving

If you’ve never attempted hair removal before, shaving may be the best option for you. 

Shaving involves using a razor to remove hair from the surface of your skin. If you’re a man, you’ve likely shaved your facial hair before. The method is the same for shaving away other hair on your body. 

Always use shaving cream and a post-shave lotion to reduce irritation. Keep in mind, that both irritation and in-grown hairs are common with shaving, especially in sensitive areas like pubic hair. 

2. Waxing 

Another one of the more popular forms of hair removal is waxing. This is the process of applying a sticky substance to the hair. When the sticky substance is removed quickly, it takes the body hair and its root with it. 

There are two main waxing methods, hard wax, and strip wax.

A hard wax is traditionally done in a salon. This is a peelable wax that’s applied thickly onto your skin. This method is used for sensitive areas, such as the face, underarms, and pubic area. 

A strip wax is a waxing method that can be done from home. These kits have a strip that contains wax substance ready to be put onto your skin and peeled away. 

Waxing generally lasts three to five weeks depending on the method used and the body area. 

3. Sugaring

While many people consider waxing and sugaring to be the same thing, there are significant differences between these hair removal methods. 

A sugar wax is a wax alternative made with pure cane sugar, lemon juice, and sea salt. The all-natural ingredients are safe enough to eat, ensuring that you’re not putting any harmful chemicals on your body. 

You can use a kit safely at home, providing results for up to eight weeks. Start by applying a thin layer of sugar wax onto your skin then firmly apply an epilating strip. Quickly remove the strip and then wash away any remaining wax from the skin. 

4. Threading

Threading is a hair removal method that’s grown in popularity in recent years. It is most commonly used for eyebrows or facial hair, but the concept can be applied to any area of body hair. 

Threading involves a professional wrapping a cotton thread around a single strand of hair. The string is then tugged, removing the hair and its follicle. The method is considered virtually painless, though it can be a lengthy process.

This method lasts for two to six weeks. Many people with sensitive skin opt for threading because it doesn’t involve putting anything on your skin except for a sanitary cotton string. 

5. Depilatory Creams 

Have you heard the term depilation and are wondering what is depilation? In simple terms, depilation is the removal of hair above the surface of the skin. This is commonly linked to shaving or trimming. 

But, there are also depilatory creams that provide the same results. These creams are applied over the portion of the body you want to remove hair from. The formula in the cream then dissolves any hair it comes in contact with. 

While this method is essentially painless, you may feel a slight tingling sensation while it’s applied to the skin. If the tingling turns to burning or irritation, wash the formula off immediately. Some people find that their skin is sensitive to these creams.  

Since this method only removes the hair on top of the skin’s surface, it lasts around the same time as shaving. 

6. Electrolysis

Electrolysis is currently the only permanent hair removal method approved by the FDA.

This method involves a professional passing an electrical current through your hair follicles via a small needle. This current damages the follicle and prevents any future hair growth. This method is only available by visiting a board-certified dermatologist or electrologist. 

Electrolysis requires follow-ups every week for several weeks. Experts recommend anywhere between fifteen and thirty procedures for permanent hair removal. 

7. Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is one of the more long-term hair removal options available. 

With this method, a laser is used to emit light on certain areas of your body. The light transfers to heat energy, which then damages the hair follicles within your skin. Once damaged, any existing hair falls off and any further growth is prevented. 

To get the desired results, you’ll generally need between six to twelve sessions. While the results can be permanent, many people follow up with one to two sessions a year. 

Try these Different Types of Hair Removal Methods 

As you now know, there are many different types of hair removal methods. 

Get ready for spring and try several of these methods yourself. Don’t get frustrated if the first few methods you try aren’t working as desired — everyone’s body reacts differently to hair removal methods. It may take some trial and error, but one of these methods is bound to provide the results you’re looking for. 

Now that you’re rid of body hair, you can focus on the rest of your look. Check out more of our site to learn how to best dress your body.