- The process involved with waxing takes place with hot wax and some form of applicator, which is usually made of wood or plastic. Hot wax is spread over the area of hair that is going to be removed. After it sets up, a fabric strip is smoothed out over the area. It is then ripped off, taking with it all the hair that was in the area of the wax.
- Electrolysis is a type of hair removal that involves sending a current of electricity through a fine needle to zap the root of hair follicles, causing them to fall out. There are three different types of electrolysis: galvanic, where there is a chemical current produced; thermolysis, where a current of heat is used; and there is a blend, where both methods are used in combination.
- Laser hair removal is a process that uses a beam of hot, pulsating light. It permeates the epidermal layer of the skin where it zeroes in on the melanin, which is what gives hair its color. When it hits this area, it destroys the follicle, rendering the hair useless and causing it to fall out. Depending on how much hair is being removed, it can take a few treatments. But over the course of time with repeated treatments, hair can be removed permanently.
- Depilatories come in the form of lotions or creams that help weaken the hair, allowing it to be removed easily. They are applied to the skin in areas where hair removal is wanted. After a short period of sitting on the skin to allow the cream to absorb into the follicles, the hair and cream are then wiped away with a cloth or towel. Depilatories should not be left on the skin for a long period of time because they could burn the skin and cause irritation.
