Permanent Hair Removal

For many women and men, unwanted hair can be a nuisance…or even a nightmare. And most people think "permanent" means lasting forever. Unfortunately, that's not always the case as it's used in advertising. For instance, a permanent wave in your hair is not really permanent, and a permanent marker is not necessarily permanent.

It's difficult to assess a new hair removal method that claims to be permanent. Most people figure that after a certain amount of time, it's unlikely that a hair will ever return. That's why several people, have suggested a specific definition of "permanent.". One manufacturer claims their device is permanent based on results after 9 weeks. That's ridiculous. Waxing can last that long, and it's been clinically proven temporary.

Two Types of Permanent Hair Removal:

Accuracy of the electrolysis, and efficiency of laser hair removal methods are the two most important points when considering permanent hair removal.

1. Electrolysis:

This is the first method of permanent hair removal, developed about 100 years ago, which has subsequently lent its name to all methods of permanent hair removal. Electrolysis refers to the destruction of hair roots with an electric current.

It is a direct current, or polarized type of current, that causes a chemical reaction in the hair follicle. This reaction creates a lye, which dissolves the papilla (germinative part of the hair root), which cannot be removed by any other method. Even when the hair is removed, root bulb included, the papilla immediately starts to grow another hair in its place. If hair removal is to be permanent, it must disable or destroy the papilla. The lye created by electrolysis is very efficient in destroying the papilla, and unless the electrolysis is very inaccurate, the lye tends to stay in the follicle and not disturb or scar the surrounding tissue. This method is accurate, efficient and safe for most patients, but in cases involving coarse, deep-rooted hair, it does take a long time to destroy the papilla - about 60 to 90 seconds.

2. Laser Hair Removal:

Today, with the remarkable advances in laser technology, unwanted hair is being removed safely and affordably. Laser Hair Removal has been extensively researched, tested and proven highly effective in permanently reducing unwanted hair. It works on just about any treatment area of the body where smooth skin is desired…underarms, face, neck, legs, shoulders, back, bikini line, you name it. But there is advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

Some consumers have experienced long-lasting hair removal or permanent hair reduction.
Considered safe if performed properly.
Useful for large areas such as backs or legs.
Regrowth can come back lighter in color or finer in texture.
Light-skinned consumers with dark hair have the best results.

Disadvantages:

Long-term data on safety and effectiveness have not been accurately established.
Response rates have not been established.
Regrowth rates have not been accurately established and cannot be predicted due to numerous variables.
Generally not as effective on undigested (gray) hairs and red or blonde hair.
Must be used very cautiously (if at all) on darker skin tones or on consumers who tan themselves.
Improper treatment can cause burns, lesions, skin discoloration lasting several months, or patchy/patterned regrowth.
Recent data suggest other skin structures are often affected by laser irradiation, and long term effects of this constitute an unknown risk.
Requires eye protection.
Can be expensive.
Some find treatment painful.
Regulation varies by state, so inadequate controls exist to ensure competent practitioners.
Some consumers, even ideal candidates, do not respond to treatment