Woman touches smooth skin from laser hair removal

If there’s one thing that makes some people nervous in sunny weather, it’s unwanted body and facial hair. The search for smooth skin has led to the development of many hair removal techniques over the years, each with their own benefits and drawbacks.

How does hair grow?

Before diving into each of the hair removal methods, let’s examine the process behind hair growth. The top two layers of your skin (the epidermis and dermis) contain hair follicles that grow and nourish the strands of hair. Your hair grows in three phases:

  • Anagen: An active phase where the cells in the hair’s root divide and push club hair out
  • Catagen: Growth ends and the root sheath of the hair attaches to root.
  • Telogen: The club hair is completely formed, and the hair follicle rests

Shaving

The most common method to remove hair for both men and women is shaving. New precision razors have been developed over the years to give users smooth skin.

Benefits

Shaving has an easy barrier for entry, as all a user would need would be a set of razors and shaving cream. It can also be done in the comfort of your own home.

Drawbacks

Even though shaving does not require significant finesse, improper usage can cause nicks and cuts that can be distracting. Shaving also only removes hair that appears above the epidermis, meaning that it does not go deeper beyond the surface.

Waxing

Another popular technique is waxing, where hot wax is applied to the treatment area and pulled quickly.

Benefits

Similar to shaving, waxing can be done at home, though many users rely on a beautician or aesthetician to apply it safely. It also removes hair at the root and provides longer results.

Drawbacks

Waxing can also be prone to user error, especially with how hot the wax can be. This can result in burns and skin irritation, though cold wax options are available. Perhaps the biggest complaint about waxing is that it can be a painful process, so those with sensitive skin may want to steer clear.

Laser hair removal

One of the more advanced treatment methods for unwanted hair is laser and light skin therapy. This technique uses light energy converted to heat that targets hair follicles and inhibits growth. According to Amanda Mackey, a CEENTA licensed esthetician at our Fort Mill office, "Laser and light therapy is a fast, effective, and long-term resolution to hair removal."

Benefits

Effective laser and light hair removal can last up to four months after multiple sessions, with better results after continued use. It is also minimally painful and some devices like the Sciton BBL Forever Bare use a cooling plate to keep you comfortable during treatment.

Drawbacks

Patients who receive laser hair removal may experience skin sensitivity during the recovery process and should avoid prolonged periods in the sun. The treatment is also more successful for those with fairer skin complexions.

If you’re new to the world of laser and light skin therapy, then CEENTA is here to help. As Amanda Mackey puts it, "Getting rid of unwanted hair is the best feeling! If you are tired of dealing with razor bumps and hiding unwanted hair, reach out to us today."

Dr. Jewel Greywoode in Uptown and Dr. Neela Rao and Amanda in Fort Mill are trained specialists in this revolutionary technique, and they’re ready to see you. Schedule your laser hair removal consultation with CEENTA online.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician. To make an appointment with a CEENTA facial plastic specialist, you may schedule online, through myCEENTAchart, or by calling 704-295-3000.

 


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