About Facial Hair Removal

Facial hair removal is a necessary part of a woman's beauty regimen. According to a study by Bristol-Myers, more than 20 million women remove unwanted facial hair once a week. Because large amounts of hair on the face is considered a masculine trait, many young women start removing the hair on the upper lip, cheek and chin as soon as they become teenagers.

Significance

Unwanted facial hair growth, or hirsutism, in women may be caused by an underlying medical condition or heredity. In fact certain ethnic groups are predisposed for heavy facial hair in women and men. Women diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome have an increase in hair growth because of this condition. Because facial hair growth is deemed unattractive by the opposite sex, women spend millions of dollars each year to eliminate this embarrassing problem.

Types

There are several common hair removal methods. These techniques vary by price, ease of use and long-term effectiveness. The most popular epilation and depilation methods are tweezing, bleaching, use of depilatories, waxing, Vaniqa, laser and electrolysis. Epilation is hair removal above the skin; depilation is removal beneath the skin. Shaving is discouraged for facial hair removal because ingrown hairs and stubble is a result of using this method.

Time Frame

The tweezing method lasts approximately two to four weeks. Bleaching involves the use of a cream that lightens the hair on the face and lasts a maximum of four weeks. Depilatories use a solution that dissolves the hair. Hair removal using this technique will last for three to eight weeks. A licensed practitioner must perform the laser and electrolysis methods that are considered permanent hair removal options for the face; they are expensive and require frequent use for several months. Waxing is an inexpensive method that lasts from three to six weeks. Vaniqa is a topical medication. A medical doctor can prescribe this cream, but it used in conjunction with another hair removal method for maximum effectiveness.

Considerations

As women age facial hair may grow due to an overproduction of hormones. Hirsutism is the result of the hormone overproduction by the ovary or the adrenal gland. If facial hair growth is due to a medical condition, consult a doctor for facial hair removal options beyond over-the-counter remedies. The practice of hair removal in salons and medical centers is monitored by state and local authorities.

Warning

Women with dark skin should consult with a physician before considering laser hair removal. If using waxing, bleaching or depilatories to remove facial hair, apply a patch test 24 hours before proceeding with these methods. Side effects of facial hair removal may include pain, swelling, redness, ingrown hairs, changes in pigment and allergic reactions. Before using a new treatment to remove hair from your face, consult with your physician or the Food and Drug Administration for safe and appropriate methods.

Resources

• Food and Drug Administration - Hair Removal
• CNN - Excess Facial Hair