Shaving, Tweezing, Electrolysis, or Lasers… How to Choose Which Works for You
Removing facial hair can be done in many ways. And unlike other body parts, removal methods rely on gender as much as budget and medical history.
For example, most men use shaving as a temporary means for hair removal, while women prefer longer-lasting results. The following outlines each method, and who should consider it.
Shaving
Almost exclusively a method for men, shaving is cheap and effective. Results last only 1 – 2 days before stubble appears.
Recently, shaving has become somewhat of a “lost art”. Plastic, disposable razors used in conjunction with alcohol-based creams often leave razor burn, cuts and bleeding.
For the best possible shave, three items are needed:
- One high-quality, double edge safety razor
- Badger hair shaving brush
- English shaving cream (non-alcohol based)
Of these three items, the badger hair brush is most important. Used properly, it creates a thick, rich lather (impossible to do by hand), exfoliates the skin and stands facial hair on end, resulting in a clean smooth shave.
For a complete explanation, please read this page on facial hair removal for men.
Tweezing Facial Hair
Tweezing works equally well for men and women. Results last longer than shaving (up to 2 weeks) and – contrary to popular belief – tweezing does not cause hair to grow back thicker.
Eyebrows are the most commonly tweezed area, followed by the upper lip.
Tips for Tweezing:
- Shower or wash your face with warm water prior to tweezing. This helps open pores, which makes tweezing easier.
- Brush hairs in the direction of growth before tweezing
- Tweeze only one hair at a time (threading allows for multiple hairs simultaneously)
- Tweeze hair in the direction of growth; if eyebrows point up, tweeze in an upward motion
- Pull hairs out in one fluid motion
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is the only form of permanent hair removal recognized by the FDA. It is also the most time-consuming. However, due to relatively small treatment areas – such as the eyebrows and upper lip – electrolysis is very effective in terms of treatment time and overall cost.
It should be noted, however, that electrolysis requires several weeks (and sometimes months) to see results. For those with upcoming events (such as weddings, graduations, etc.) this may not be the right choice.
Laser Treatment
Lasers have been used since the early nineties for hair removal. Results last for 3 – 6 months after multiple treatments. Admittedly, lasers work best for large body parts (such as the back, legs and chest) but technicians do use them effectively for removing facial hair.
There are a few drawbacks, however. First, lasers are somewhat ineffective on dark skin and/or light colored hair (electrolysis is the preferred alternative in this case). Second, laser treatment around the eyes should be approached with caution. Because eyes contain pigment – which absorbs lasers – protective eyewear should be worn. Even then, a professional technician with experience in this procedure should be contacted.
Waxing Facial Hair?
Waxing is generally not recommended for facial hair removal, as it can cause redness and irritation. Alternatively, depilatories may be used instead. Read our page on hair removal creams for further information.
