HairFacts | Hair Removal Information
For consumers, by consumers
Manufacturers Below are lists of manufacturers for various methods. The lists may not be complete yet, so if you know of one that’s missing, please let me know. To search for brand names of devices, please use the Search feature to look up the brand you want. Lasers and flash lamps Electrolysis machines Electrolysis probes … Continue reading “Hair removal manufacturers”
Basic facts A hair inhibitor or hair retardant is any product that can slow or stop the growth of hair. The prescription topical cream VANIQA® is clinically proven and approved by the US Food And Drug Administration to slow hair growth on some (but not all) women’s facial hair. Some prescription oral medications have been clinically observed … Continue reading “Topical “hair inhibitors” (WARNING!)”
Basic facts With these devices developed in the 1970s, a burst of filtered light is aimed at one hair at a time, which is then tweezed. No published proof that this lasts longer than just tweezing. Description A fiberoptic probe is placed in or directly above a follicle. Light-based energy is then sent through the … Continue reading “Photoepilators (WARNING!)”
Basic facts An experimental method combining chemicals and radiation to induce controlled hair loss or reduction. Description A chemical is administered which selectively pigments a follicle’s regenerative structures. Laser or other radiation selectively targets the darkened cells while sparing surrounding tissue. Advantages Theoretically could target any hair color. Disadvantages Experimental. Commercial use is not expected … Continue reading “Photodynamic therapy hair removal”
If you’re seeking permanent hair removal, you have several imperfect options. A number of methods have been developed that use chemicals, energy of varying types, or a combination to target the areas that regulate hair growth. Permanently destroying these areas while sparing surrounding tissue is a difficult challenge. I recommend relying on a body of … Continue reading “Permanent hair removal methods”
Microwave hair removal Basic facts Extremely limited data on safety and effectiveness (especially for use on the face) make this a device to avoid until there’s more data. Description Microwave radiation is sent through a handpiece into the skin, where the energy causes thermal damage. Advantages Targets all colors of hair. Disadvantages Targets everything else … Continue reading “Microwave hair removal (WARNING!)”
Background The light-based hair removal method called flashlamp is also called IPL (intense pulsed light), ILS (intense light source), full spectrum, non-coherent, and broadband light. The primary differences between flashlamps and lasers used in hair removal are: Kind of light As mentioned earlier, flash lamps do not use one wavelength of light the way a … Continue reading “IPL (intense pulsed light) hair removal”
Basic facts Electric tweezers and treatments with them should be avoided by all consumers. They’re often promoted as permanent, but facts indicate otherwise. Description Electric current is applied to a hair through an electrified tweezer. The tweezer grasps the hair above the skin’s surface and holds it anywhere from 15 seconds to several minutes. Promoters … Continue reading “Electric tweezers (NOT RECOMMENDED)”
Basic facts Some consumers have experienced permanent hair reduction, but there is limited data on how much hair reduction is typical, and how often hair reduction occurs. This procedure is sold as a professional service or a less effective home use version. Description Full spectrum (non-coherent) light and low-range infrared radiation are filtered to allow … Continue reading “Flashlamps/Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)”
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 … Continue reading “Professional hair removal methods compared”
