Facial hair removal

One of the major reasons both men and women seek hair removal solutions is for the treatment of unwanted facial hair. For women there are many reasons that they grow hair on their face. Some women (studies show approximately 10%) suffer from a reproductive disease called Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. One symptom for approximately 75% of women with this disease is excess facial hair (usually a "mustache" on the upper lip or on stray hairs the chin). Other causes can be the regular hormonal changes that take place during menopause. Also excess facial hair can occur from the as the side effects of certain drugs for example Dilantin which is commonly used for Epilepsy treatment. Another less considered cause is hypothyroidism, while on the one hand it does cause scalp hair to fall out, it also causes excess facial hair. The societal norm views facial hair on women as unattractive which leaves many women looking for a solution to this problem. There are many methods available that each has varying levels of ease, effectiveness, and side effects. It is important to note that most methods are not state regulated and therefore caution should be used. Here is a brief overview of several methods used for facial hair removal-

• Plucking-This is also sometimes called "tweezing" as it is done with tweezers. Although this may be the all-time safest method to use it definitely is not painless. Many people insist that one can "get used to the pain", yet many with extremely sensitive nerve endings certainly disagree and prefer other painless methods. In addition there are side effects from this method that include: pain, ingrown hairs, redness, irritation, scarring. The effectiveness of plucking facial hairs is generally two to eight weeks.
• Bleaching-Bleaching is the quickest and simplest method. In addition this method of facial hair removal has the least side effects and is painless. One of the biggest benefits here are bleaching kits that are available that are inexpensive. It is important to keep in mind that while it is certainly among the safest, if the skin is irritated then it should be avoided. Technically bleaching is not a hair removal method but simply lightens the hair to make it less noticeable. Bleaching is performed by applying a chemical to the desired area, which removes the pigment from the hair. Side effects from bleaching facial hair are rare but bleaching can occasionally cause skin irritation. The effectiveness of using bleach on facial hair can vary widely as well.

• Shaving-It is important to note that although shaving might be appropriate for a woman's legs, the facial skin is a bit more delicate and should be treated with additional care. In addition, shaving can leave a portion of the hair follicle that extends above the surface of the hair (commonly known as "stubble") and give away the fact that you shave to people you probably would not want to know. Side effects of shaving facial hair can include: minor cuts, ingrown hairs and chemical dermatitis. The effectiveness of shaving generally lasts between eight hours to three days.
• Depilatory creams-These are creams that contain chemicals that dissolve the hair follicles. It is crucial to use this method correctly (do not leave on longer than usual). If the depilatory is used correctly it is usually painless. However it is important to note that much like getting a perm, there can be a horrible smell afterwards. While the smell (which is the result of sulfur, a byproduct of the chemical reaction used to dissolve the hair follicle) does not last long it is definitely there! Side effects of using a depilatory for facial hair removal can be both allergic and chemical dermatitis. A way to avoid this is to test on hidden spot on skin beforehand. The effectiveness of using a depilatory is generally up to two weeks.
• Waxing-This is an effective method of removing large amounts of hair at one time. Waxing is the most common method used in removing facial hair. In this method wax is warmed to allow it to be spread easily over the skin in the direction of hair growth. The hair then becomes embedded in the wax, which cools and firms up grasping the hair. The wax is then quickly pulled off in the opposite direction of the hair growth, pulling the hairs out of the follicles. Cold waxes are available and are usually attached to strips, which are then patted onto the skin. It is important to note that wax that is still left on the skin must be peeled or scratched off. In addition caution must be used when heating wax so as not to burn the skin. Side effects from waxing to remove facial hair can include: redness, swelling, skin irritation and burns (if the wax is not handled correctly). Effectiveness of using wax to remove facial hair is about 3 weeks.
• Sugar Waxing-This method is a popular form of hair removal that works in the same way traditional waxing does. A thick sugary substance that is similar to caramel is spread on the skin in the direction of hair growth. The hair then becomes embedded in the caramel. A cloth or paper strip is gently patted onto the caramel and then pulled off quickly in the opposite direction of the hair growth, pulling the hairs out of the follicles. The advantage of this method over traditional waxing is the easy clean up. The sugar substance is water-soluble and can be removed easier than wax by simply rinsing with water. There are fewer side effects reported with this method generally only skin irritation. The effectiveness of this method of removing facial hair is about 3 weeks.
• Laser-This method for facial hair removal is best used by fair skinned women with dark hair, because the laser beam is attracted by the dark pigment (melanin) in the hair and then destroys it. It is important to note that grey hair and white hair are not affected by the treatment. In addition, a person whose skin tone is darker will sometimes "distract" the laser and not only will not as much hair be removed, but it could burn the skin. Side effects from using laser to remove facial hair can include: swelling redness, pain and either increased or decreased skin pigmentation. The effectiveness of using laser for facial hair removal varies widely with some clients needing a touch-up every few months and other clients being 100% satisfied after completing an initial round of treatments. It is also important to keep in mind that his is the most expensive treatment. Potential clients would do well to seek out a busy laser clinic or spa and ask for referrals and recommendations.

•     Electrolysis-This method for removing facial hair is the least tested and the practice has the least standards. In addition it is also requires the most patience and the highest pain tolerance as it is done one hair at a time. Electrolysis is done when a needle is put next to the hair follicle and electricity is shot through the hair and then it is plucked using tweezers. Side effects from using electrolysis for facial hair removal are that it is not possible for use with patients who have pacemakers, swelling, redness, pain, scars, pigment changes and keloid formation. The effectiveness of using electrolysis for facial hair removal depends upon the provider and method that is used.  Many proponents like this method because it is thought to be permanent. It is important to keep in mind that this procedure can be quite expensive. It is very important that anyone considering this method of facial hair removal be sure to take care to look for a professional who follows a high standard and who is well known for good results on other clients.
•     Vaniqa-This is a prescription-only topical cream that has been FDA-approved for reducing and inhibiting the growth of unwanted facial hair. The active ingredient in Vaniqa is Eflornithine hydrochloride. This medication works by inhibiting an enzyme that is needed for cell reproduction and other cell functions necessary for hair growth. The cream is applied twice a day to areas of unwanted facial hair. Noticeable results are usually observed after 4-8 weeks of therapy.  It is important to note that application must be continued for as long as inhibition of hair growth is desired. Vaniqa does continue to reduce facial hair growth for up to 8 weeks after discontinuing treatment.

The bottom line
While removal of facial hair is a cosmetic issue many times the reasons behind the hair growth is not.  Should you be concerned about facial hair growth or experience a sudden change in growth of facial hair it is recommended that you consult a physician.  Only medical personnel can rule out whether there is an underlying problem behind the facial hair growth you may be experiencing.  In addition many times if an underlying medical reason is found to have precipitated the hair growth then treatment of the problem may resolve the facial hair growth as well. If the facial hair you are having is not medically related than each person should chose a method or combination of methods that works best for them depending on cost, time available, skin type, and the desired hair-free area. It is important not to choose a hair removal method simply because it may seem popular or have great advertising.  Choosing a facial hair method that works best for your skin type and budget will lead to getting those hair free results that you really want.