Hair removal comparison charts Methods done professionally
The methods below are offered in salons and clinics.
Disclaimer
Your experiences with a hair removal
method may be completely different than the experiences of another
consumer.
These comparison charts are based on published medical data and
feedback from consumers and practitioners. However, because of
the huge number of variables involved in hair removal, comparing
can only occur on the most general level and might not reflect
a specific consumer's experiences.
I make absolutely no guarantee
that any method will work better or worse for you than another
product.
See the  intro page for
more details on the disclaimer and on how to read the chart.
Discussion:
Waxing
For large areas, waxing is the fastest and cheapest option,
with results lasting 3-8 weeks.
"Transdermal"
and "transcutaneous"
methods and photoepilators
Beauty salons sometimes offer "transdermal electrolysis"
(also called "transcutaneous electrolysis"), electric
tweezing, and photoepilators. These are all unproven methods
and should be avoided.
Microwave hair removal
This is a new method with no published clinical results. It's
not allowed for facial treatment for safety and effectiveness
reasons, and there is not enough data to determine how safe
it is at this time.
Electrolysis
Professional electrolysis is permanent for most consumers if
done correctly, but it can be painful, slow, costly, and can
cause permanent skin damage if not done properly. Also, if it's
not done properly, it is not as effective. Some patients do
not seem to respond to treatment. To minimize these risks, go
to a certified electrologist after getting a recommendation
from a client who is done and happy.
See choosing an electrologist
for details.
Laser and flash lamp (IPL)
Laser results vary greatly by client and by type of laser used.
While some clients find laser to be a good option, there is
little long-term clinical data on how long results from laser
treatment will last.
Flash lamps are similar to laser, but with often higher rates
of skin side effects and usually less efficacy.
As with electrolysis, laser can be painful, slow, costly, and
can cause permanent skin damage if not done properly. Also,
if it's not done properly, it is less effective. Many patients
do not seem to respond to treatment. To minimize these risks,
go to a qualified light-based practitioner after getting a recommendation
from a client who is done and happy.
See choosing a light-based practitioner
for details.
Charts in this section:
Methods done
at home
Methods done professionally
Proven permanent hair
removal methods
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