Everything You Need To Know About Hair Removal
Find the best hair removal method for you. (Photo: Arthur Belebeau/Trunk Archive)
With summer in sight, it’s time to get serious about hair removal. But it’s not just women who are getting prepped for beach weather. According to Chris Karavolas, Owner of Romeo & Juliette Laser Hair Removal in NYC, 40% of clients are male. “Men have become more inclined to do laser hair removal on their backs, chest, buttocks, bikini and face,” he says. From waxing to lasers, there are a ton of options, but they all have their pros and cons. Though methods, surface area, and discomfort vary, there are other things to consider before going fuzz-free. “When choosing a hair removal option, cost, accessibility and permanence play a role,” says Chris. Here, we break down the best hair removal method for your needs and budget.
Laser
At NYC’s Spruce & Bond they use three FDA-approved lasers to target unwanted hair. The laser used depends on each client’s skin tone. Lasers are recommended for those with darker hair (rather than blonde, red or grey). Four weeks before the treatment, it’s important not to wax or pluck (though you want to shave the area before going in). One week before and one week after, staying out of the sun is mandatory. It does hurt a little, with the sensation feeling like a snapping rubber band. For full results, 5 sessions scheduled 4 to 6 weeks apart are necessary, but don’t worry: there’s little downtime. Most people have no reaction, but occasionally little red bumps will appear – nothing that can’t be treated with hydrocortisone cream. Cost ranges from $750 to $1,500.
Cream
Smooth faces don’t have to be painful. For a fix in 10 minutes, completely bare ctrl+hair+del facial hair removal cream is suitable for upper lip, chin, cheeks and hairline. Results are seen immediately, and the solution has soothing argan oil and aloe infused with cocoa butter to help calm skin. The wipe-away cream, applicator, and a damp tissue are the only supplies needed. The at-home treatment retails for $10.
Sugaring
For those with highly sensitive skin, an ancient technique using halawa gel (sugar, lemon and hot water) is applied on clean, un-sweaty skin in the direction of hair growth. It’s then pulled with muslin strips in the opposite direction. A few sessions are needed for reduced growth, and a follow up appointment should be scheduled within 6 weeks. You shouldn’t exfoliate, apply hot water, or sit in a sauna for 48 hours after the treatment. At Hibba NYC, prices start at $6 for the chin and $45 for a Brazilian.
Waxing
Though wax has a bad reputation for hurting, the all-natural wax used at Uni K Wax Centers is elastic and ideal for sensitive skin (of course, taking Advil before an appointment helps, too). In 10-45 minutes with a cost of $5-$70 (depending on the selected service), skin is silky smooth for two or more weeks.
Razors & Shave Cream
In most American showers, razors and shaving cream are staples. Compared to in-office treatments and other methods, they are the less expensive alternative for bare bodies. Razors like the BIC Soleil Glow are $7.49 for a 3-pack and eos 24-Hour Moisturizing Shave Cream is $3.49, making them an inexpensive option. The non-foaming, paraben-free formula comes in flavors like Vanilla Bliss and Pomegranate Raspberry – adding delicious scents (and maybe 5 minutes) to your shower routine. No time to hop in the tub? The moisturizing product can be used without water, too.
Related:
5 Things to Know About Laser Hair Removal
