Info about Shaving
Hair Removal
Hair removal is usually a matter of personal choice. If you have hair where you don’t want it, there are a number of things you can do.
Shaving is the most common method of getting rid of unwanted hair on the face, legs, and armpits. A shave cream aids in shaving with a safety razor. A pre-electric shave lotion can be applied before using an electric razor. Shaving does not make hair coarser. This idea probably developed because hair that has been shaved looks especially coarse when it first grows back. However, when the hair grows out to its normal length, its texture is the same as before shaving.
Chemical depilatories are products that remove hair chemically. These products should be used on armpits and legs only and not on the face, unless the label says it is safe to do so. Also, such products should not be used if there are breaks in the skin. Skin irritation occasionally occurs, so it is a good idea to test a small area of skin before using a new product. When doing the test, read the label to check how long leave the product on your skin. If you decide to use the product, follow all label instructions exactly.
Some people use tweezers to pluck eyebrow hairs and scattered hairs in other areas. Tweezing is a slow and somewhat painful process, so it is not a good idea for large areas. There is no scientific evidence that tweezing makes hair grow slower or faster or that it changes the thickness of the hair.
You may wonder if there is any way to remove hair permanently. Electrolysis is a process that does this. In electrolysis, a fine needle is inserted into the opening of the hair follicle. An electric current is transmitted down the needle to destroy the hair root. Electrolysis can be a lengthy and expensive treatment. If done by an unskilled person, it can cause permanent pitting and scarring.
A dermatologist can tell you if your hair removal problem is extreme enough to call for electrolysis. He or she may perform the electrolysis or suggest a qualified operator. Because of the possible dangers, electrolysis with home devices is not recommended.