Whether you’re after silky smooth legs or a Brazilian, hair removal is a (painful) fact of life. Here’s our guide to the different types available.

Shaving

It’s fast, painless and cheap. Unfortunately it’s not permanent. From a disposable razor in the shower to a cut-throat shave at the barber shop, shaving is effective for the removal of any type of body hair. Done well it can give you a smooth finish, but hair tends to grow back quickly and thicker as a result.  

Depilatory cream

Another temporary fix, depilatory cream is a chemical cream is applied to the hair. It weakens the hair shaft, allowing it to be easily rubbed or scraped free. The process is painless, and no experience or professional assistance is required.  Depilatory creams are available in local supermarkets.

Threading

Increasingly popular in the Western world, threading is an ancient hair removal technique from the East.  Threading involves rolling a twisted, thin piece of cotton thread over the area of unwanted hair. The hair is removed at the follicle, and several hairs can be removed at one time. Threading is commonly used for small areas of hair such as eyebrows.

Waxing

Waxing is a semi-permanent technique. Hot or cold wax is applied to the skin, then a strip of material is pressed onto the wax. This is quickly pulled off in a quick movement, removing the wax and any hair embedded within it. Because it pulls out the hair by its roots, it leaves the area hair free for 4-6 weeks. Regular waxing gradually reduces the amount of hair growing on that part of the body.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal technique which requires a licensed practitioner. A solid, hair-thin metal device is applied to one hair follicle at a time. An electrical current runs through the device to the follicle, damaging the roots. The success of the treatment depends on the condition of your skin and the type of hair being removed. It takes around 2 years of regular treatments for the process to be fully completed.

Laser

Laser hair removal is increasingly popular hair removal technique in Australia. It requires a qualified practitioner. The process involves using a laser light to penetrate the skin and destroy the hair follicle. There are different grades and strengths of lasers available so talk to your local laser clinic about what they offer. Lasers only work on hairs with dark pigment, so white or grey hair will not be removed. Like electrolysis, laser treatment will require regular sessions, depending on the area of hair being removed.

If you’re after permanent or semi-permanent hair removal, talk to your local beauty therapist for advice and to find out what they can offer.