Threading

Threading is an ancient Middle Eastern technique that has recently become more a popular hair removal alternative in the US. Unless you are extremely skilled, this is not something you can really do yourself!  An aesthetician uses a doubled strand of cotton thread to twist around several individual hairs at once , then pulls them out from the roots as she works at lightening speed.  *The procedure is used mainly on the eyebrows, chin and upper lip.

Effects: Typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

 

Costs: Threading starts at around $5. Get threaded, then try maintaining your  brow line yourself with tweezers- for at least a bit!

Rotary Epilators

Remember the Epilady! These devices look like electric razors, except instead of a cutting blade on a rotary head, they have rows of tweezers which can pull hairs out by the root.  It takes a bit of time, so if you can stand doing it, it’s a longer lasting option than shaving your legs! Warning: skin must be pulled tight to avoid pinching. Avoid the bikini area!

Effects: Lasts 2-4 weeks

Costs: Device cost between $40.00 to $120.00

Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is NOT for everyone.

Lasers use targeted pulses of light to break down and destroy the melanin (dark pigment) in hair. Therefore, it works BEST on people with dark  hair. However, if you also have dark skin, the lasers will effect the melonin in your skin- which can cause discoloration!  If you have blond or gray hair, laser treatment is significantly less effective.

Lasers are not as painful as waxing, but the process is by no means a pain-free experience! Many women say it feels like a rubber band snapping against your skin. *Although there is pain, lasers are quite effective on sensitive areas.

Laser sessions on the upper lip and chin only take about 10 minutes, while treatments on your legs and bikini area will take longer.   You’ll need 5-6 treatments spaced four weeks apart.

*It is extremely important to go to a reputable licensed aesthetician who uses the most updated equipment!

Results: Permanent hair removal is never guaranteed. Expect an 80% reduction in hair growth, but some people see more and some less. The success rate truly varies from person to person!

Cost: Lasers are expensive!  Procedures can range from $150-$500 each treatment (you’ll need 5-6).

Electrolysis

Because it focuses on one hair at a time, electrolysis is a more guaranteed form of permanent hair removal. However, it can be a tedious and painful process, making it a better treatment for smaller areas like the brows, upper lip or chin.  It works by a licensed electrologist inserting a sterile needle into every hair follicle. A low-level electrical current kills the follicle. The pain can be intense!

Results: Unlike lasers, electrolysis kills every follicle the electrologist treats.  The problem is, the technician may not zap every follicle!

Costs: Expensive. $60-$100 for a typical 30-minute session, but you’ll need about 15-30 treatment to achieve the best results!

We know, we know, between the pain of buying a new swimsuit and the pain of hair removal (physical as well as monetary!) you might be tempted to skip summer all together!  But you can be a bathing beauty, even if just armed with the traditional razor and soap.  Though more expensive hair removal techniques may seem exorbitant, be sure to consider that if they are permanent they may well be worth the price.  Though some hair removal is much less pain free than others, let’s be honest – none of it sounds like a day at the beach!

 

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