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Home Hair Removal Techniques - Part 2 

Now that you've read the shaving, tweezing, and depilatories tips in Part 1 of this two-part series, it's time to take a look at some of the additional home hair removal treatments that are available. 

Tips for Waxing 

Waxing hurts! Make sure that your skin is 100% clean and dry. There should be no trace of lotions or creams. Apply the wax in the direction of the hair growth. Choose the right thickness of wax for your hair. Thin wax formulations are OK for fine hair. Thick or course hair may require a thicker type. Hairs that are shorter than 1/8 of an inch are not good candidates for waxing. The effects of waxing can last for as long as a month or more. 

Bleaching 

Bleaching is not technically a hair removal technique. It lightens the hair which makes it more difficult to be seen. Don't use laundry bleach! Purchase cosmetically approved bleaching creams that are designed to be used on the body. Bleaching is commonly used on the hair above a woman's lip although some women use it on other parts of their body. Skin irritation is a common complaint, so test an inconspicuous area first. Bleached hair may stand out against tanned or dark skin, so it might not be appropriate for all women. The bleaching process must be repeated every two to three weeks. 

Tips for using Abrasives 

Fine hairs can be removed by rubbing the skin with abrasive pumice stones or special 'hair removal gloves' which are lined with a fine sandpaper. Rub the stone or gloves in a circular motion over the area to be treated. Use a light pressure to avoid damaging the skin. Expect a certain degree of skin irritation despite your best efforts. The effects of abrasive treatment usually last for three weeks or more. 

Tips for using Epilation 

Epilation is a generic term for hair removal methods that remove the hair from below the skin's surface. Common forms of epilation include waxing, electrolysis and laser treatments. We discuss each of these methods more fully in the article series. 

Tips for Using Electrolysis 

Home electrolysis methods are not as dependable as electrolysis treatment provided by experts with professional equipment. Electrolysis can result in permanent hair removal if the right equipment and techniques are used. Read the label and warnings carefully before you purchase or use any home electrolysis equipment. Choose only equipment that comes with a blunt needle that gets inserted alongside of the hair follicle. 'Electric tweezers' do not provide good results.  

Use a depilatory or wax the area to be treated before using electrolysis. Wait for the hair to start to return and then begin the electrolysis process. Hair responds better to electrolysis when it is in the growing cycle rather than once it is fully emerged. Keep your equipment clean and sterilized. Serious infection can result from using a dirty needle. Work on only a square inch at a time. Expect skin swelling after the treatment. Because most home electrolysis treatments do not result in permanent hair loss, you may have to repeat the process every other month. 

Hopefully you've learned enough about your available hair removal treatment options to decide which one is most likely to work for your particular situation. Before using any treatment, remember to read and follow the product's instructions exactly as they are written.