Permanent Back Hair Removal

While there are various methods of back-hair removal, the only true permanent method is electrolysis. Laser hair removal offers permanent hair reduction, but it has not been approved by the FDA as a permanent removal method. Other methods of hair removal such as waxing, shaving and plucking only last a day to a few weeks and often bring annoying side effects like razor burn and ingrown hairs. If you're looking for permanent back-hair removal, electrolysis is your best bet. If you just want permanent hair reduction, laser hair removal is a viable option.

Things You'll Need

• Electrolysis technician
• Laser hair-removal technician
• Sunscreen
• Aloe gel

Instructions

1. Examine the hair on your back. Laser hair removal works best on dark hair. If the hair on your back is gray or blond, you'll need to opt for electrolysis.

2. Assess your skin tone. Since laser light targets the pigment in the hair, it works best on fair skin because the laser can clearly differentiate between the hair and the skin. If your skin is dark, the laser may seek out its pigment and potentially burn your skin. For very dark skin types, electrolysis is the preferred option.

3. Consider how quickly you want your back hair removed. When you get electrolysis, a technician inserts a needle into each individual hair follicle and emits an electrical impulse that kills it. With laser hair removal, the technician passes the laser light over the entire area, generally targeting about 10 follicles at once. As a result, it takes much longer to permanently remove back hair with electrolysis than with laser hair removal.

4. Schedule a consultation with both an electrolysis professional and a laser hair-removal technician. Ask questions regarding both procedures to determine which one is best for your back.

5. Prepare your back. With both electrolysis and laser hair removal, you want the technician and the laser to clearly see the hair follicles. Avoid tanning for at least two weeks prior to your first session.

6. Keep water away from your back for a few hours prior to your electrolysis session. Water will soften the hair, making it more difficult for the technician to insert the needle in the follicle.

7. Apply cool compresses to your back after each session. Skin will be irritated and pink and may feel warm. You can also rub aloe gel on the area to aid the healing process.

8. Wait three to six weeks between sessions. You want to catch your back hair in its growth phase in order to effectively kill the follicle.

Tips & Warnings

• You should only get electrolysis and laser hair removal from reputable establishments. All materials used should be hygienic.

• Avoid sun exposure on your back following electrolysis and laser hair-removal sessions. Your skin will be particularly vulnerable to sun damage.