Life Fright

Epilator

Epilation via this device sounds in theory much more harmful than it really is. It is a rotating cylindrical barrel of tweezers designs to pluck out hairs as it passes over the intended area. Initially it can be quite painful especially if the hairs are long, but with time, lovely desensitization kicks in and very little pain is felt while using this handheld device.

Other notes:

• can cause ingrown hairs
• painful
• lasting temporary results since the hair is getting pulled out by the root
• sustainable means of hair removal because these devices are either battery operated or rechargeable

Shaving

Shaving is one of the most popular means of hair removal involving a razor and some cream, oil, or soap to create a smooth, slick surface to easily and gently glide the razor across. It is advised to shave in the direction of the hairs rather than against because to do otherwise can cause uncomfortable and itchy razor burn. Shaving against the direction of hair growth does create a smoother finish, but the regrowth can be very itchy. Use the razor in very light and gentle movements and always maintain a watchful eye. Razor cuts are no joke and hurt worse than a paper cut!

Other notes:

• can cause razor bumps, cuts, and ingrown hairs
• quick and easy
• need to replace razor heads
• depending on the rate of hair growth, there may be a more frequent need to shave to maintain desired results

Electric Trimmer

This device is the least painful of all and there’s little room for error. Think of a men’s or a pet hair trimmer shrunk down to a razor-shaped device. There’s very marginal room for injury and it can be used on dry skin in a back and forth motion unlike a razor only good to use one way.

Other notes:

• fewer chances of injury
• little to no ingrown hairs
• quick and easy
• need to replace razor heads
• depending on the rate of hair growth, there may be a more frequent need to shave to maintain desired results

Waxing

This hair removal method involves melting wax into a liquid form and drizzling that over the surface to remove hair from. A strip of fabric or paper is place on top of the drizzled wax and once the wax has cooled, the strip is yanked away from the surface taking along unwanted hairs and wax. The skin is left feeling the aftershocks of pain, but is smooth to the touch. Since the hairs are ripped out, it will take longer for the hair to grow back in which means less upkeep compared to both shaving and using an electric trimmer.

Other notes:

• painful
• can lead to ingrown hairs
• expensive to have done outside of the home
• lasting temporary results since the hair is getting pulled out by the root

Laser & IPL

Laser and IPL are more long-lasting methods of hair removal. It involves pulsing concentrated beams of light to damage the hair follicle causing weaker hairs to grow back and over time no hair will grow out. These methods do increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun and it will take many sessions in order to see the results. Laser is only done in well-established medical practices while IPL has been made into at-home devices making it convenient and comfortable to use in the privacy of your home. Make sure to wear eye protection and know that regrowth is still possible as an outcome.

Other notes:

• slightly painful (like a rubber band snap to the skin for each pulse)
• expensive upfront costs
• potential for regrowth but at a lighter, fuzzier extent
• more long-lasting results
• need to be consistent with the sessions