Methods

Hair removal might be considered a “cosmetic” issue, but managing or removing unwanted hair can go beyond being a simple “cosmetic” problem. Many cultures have an aesthetic “ideal” amount of hair for males and females. For some of us, unwanted hair that exceeds this arbitrary standard can cause real or perceived problems with social acceptance. The information … Continue reading “Methods”

Laser hair removal history and current issues

The new uses of lasers in the 1960s captured the imagination of both scientists and the general public. Lasers also captured the imagination of the hair removal industry, who began attempting hair removal almost as soon as dermatologists and researchers began experimenting on living tissue. Wave 1 lasers: 1960 to 1969 The first lasers used … Continue reading “Laser hair removal history and current issues”

Laser hair removal clinical data

Laser hair removal terms and concepts The new uses of lasers in the 1960s captured the imagination of both scientists and the general public. Lasers also captured the imagination of the hair removal industry, who began attempting hair removal almost as soon as dermatologists and researchers began experimenting on living tissue. Wave 1 lasers: 1960 … Continue reading “Laser hair removal clinical data”

Electrolysis (electrology) for hair removal

Basic facts Permanent hair removal for most consumers if performed correctly (which requires considerable training and skill). Description A hair-thin metal probe is slid into a hair follicle. Proper insertion does not puncture the skin. Electricity is delivered to the follicle through the probe, which causes localized damage to the areas that generate hairs. Advantages … Continue reading “Electrolysis (electrology) for hair removal”

Professional hair removal methods compared

The methods below are offered in salons and clinics. Disclaimer: Your experiences with a hair removal method may be completely different than the experiences of another consumer. These comparison charts are based on published medical data and feedback from consumers and practitioners. However, because of the huge number of variables involved in hair removal, comparing can only … Continue reading “Professional hair removal methods compared”

Permanent hair removal methods compared

If permanent hair removal is your main goal, these are the only ways that have demonstrated in published clinical data that they can achieve permanent hair removal. How to read this chart: “A” is a good grade, “F” is a bad grade. Method cost speed pain lasting skin injury safety Professional needle unit (at salon) … Continue reading “Permanent hair removal methods compared”

At-home hair removal

For some people, privacy is their utmost concern. For others it’s convenience of treating yourself when time is available. Others do their own to save money. These are methods available for those who want to remove hair on their own. How to read this chart Methods that can work cost speed pain lasting skin injury … Continue reading “At-home hair removal”

How to choose the best hair removal method

Everyone has different reasons for wanting hair removal, so each of us will weigh the pros and cons of each method differently. Here are some highlights. Men Most questions I get from men are about back and chest hair. I usually recommend Waxing as the safest option. Those with lighter skin tones and dark hair … Continue reading “How to choose the best hair removal method”

Gior, 1972 (unpublished)

Gior, 1972 In 1971, Fino Gior, then president of the International Guild of Professional Electrologists, purchased an Omicron PhotoEpilator for evaluation. Gior treated 49 areas in an uncontrolled study: 20 upper lips 15 chins 11 sets of eyebrows 3 male backs All areas received three hours of treatment. After six months of observation, Gior concluded, … Continue reading “Gior, 1972 (unpublished)”

Wagner, 1998 (doctors and electrolysis/laser practitioners)

Wagner, 1998 Title: Dermatologists’ attitudes toward independent nonphysician electrolysis practice. Author: Wagner RF Jr, Brown T, Archer RE, Uchida T Journal: Dermatol Surg 1998 Mar;24(3):357-62; discussion 362-3 PMID: 9537011, UI: 98198115 Affiliated institution: Department of Dermatology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, USA. BACKGROUND: Dermatologists’ attitudes toward independent electrolysis practice by nonphysicians has historically ranged … Continue reading “Wagner, 1998 (doctors and electrolysis/laser practitioners)”