Arm Hair Removal Options

Thick, dark arm hair is something that many women can live without, and with many options in hair removal today, most can say goodbye to their arm hair safely and effectively. There are a variety of hair removal methods appropriate for arm hair. Patients must choose a treatment based on how permanent they want the arm hair removal to be and how much they want to spend. We've got the most popular methods of arm hair removal so you can choose the best treatment for you.

Home Treatments:
For a quick, inexpensive fix at home, choose between waxing and depilatory products. Waxing involves the application of very warm wax to the affected areas of the upper and lower arm, which is then covered with paper or cloth. When the paper or cloth is removed, the wax and attached hairs come along as well. Waxing effectively removes hair at the roots for a smooth finish. However, the discomfort of waxing makes this an undesirable option in arm hair removal for many, and the procedure must be repeated regularly to maintain results.

Depilatory creams are another way to remove arm hair at home. These solutions are purchased over the counter and applied to the affected areas. After 10-20 minutes, the cream is rinsed away, taking the hair with it. This process dissolves the hair rather than cutting it, so there is no discomfort during the treatment. However, those with sensitive skin or allergies may experience skin irritation after using depilatory products, due to the harsh chemicals in the formulas. This process must also be repeated often to maintain smooth, hairless skin.

Laser Hair Removal:
Your dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon has more permanent solutions for arm hair removal. One is laser hair removal, which involves a concentrated beam of light that penetrates the skin and damages the hair follicle. Because the follicle can only be affected when hair is in its growth stage, a series of laser hair removal sessions are scheduled to ensure all follicles in the affected area are properly treated.

Laser hair removal is typically done in a doctor's office or clinic. The patient may be given a topical anesthetic, but pain during the procedure is usually minimal. The length of time for laser arm hair removal varies based on how much hair will be removed. Most sessions last one hour or less. There is no recovery time needed after laser hair removal treatments and risks associated with the procedure are few.

IPL Laser Hair Removal:
One of the newest methods in laser hair removal is the use of intense pulsed light or IPL. This specialized laser is particularly effective on arm hair because it can remove a larger amount of hair in a single session. It is also effective on a wider range of skin tones and hair colors. Most patients require three or four sessions of IPL laser hair removal to achieve desired results.

Electrolysis:
While laser arm hair removal provides long term results, electrolysis is the only method of hair removal that is considered permanent. This is because electrolysis completely destroys the hair follicles it treats, so that no additional hair can grow. Despite the fact that laser hair removal tends to be quicker and easier, electrolysis continues to enjoy popularity because it can be used on all hair and skin types.

Electrolysis might be done using a chemical reaction, radio frequency or a combination of the two. The method used depends on the patient's skin type, area to be treated and density of the hair. Because this method is not typically used on larger areas of skin, it is not always the treatment of choice for unwanted arm hair. However, smaller patches respond well to electrolysis, and the patient enjoys permanent hair removal after treatment.

Removing unwanted arm hair offers a number of treatment possibilities. Whether you are looking for a temporary solution at home, or a more permanent treatment under the guidance of a medical professional, you can enjoy smoother, sleeker arms.

Featured Provider Near You

Dr. Talal A. Munasifi - Advanced Plastic Surgery Center

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