In a world where “silky smooth skin” is considered beautiful, having to deal with a lot of hair can be difficult. And, if you’ve got back hair, you might be hesitant to wear anything that reveals it.
For the most part, hair on the back is normal. However, if you’ve been experiencing sudden, unnatural hair growth, do see a professional at the earliest to get any hormonal causes out of the way. That said, if you’d like to get rid of back hair, here are a few things you could try.
# WaxingWaxing is believed to remove hair from the roots, which is why it’s recommended as a long-lasting method of hair removal. Although painful to begin with, experts believe that the more one waxes, the less painful it gets.
Estheticians generally use soft wax on the back. This type of wax has a lower melting point and comes in tins and plastic containers.Once melted slightly, soft wax is poured into a wax heater or a warming pot. A thin coat of wax is applied to the skin and removed immediately with a muslin or cotton strip before it cools.
The warmth of the wax is believed to dilate the hair follicle and make hair removal easier. Additionally, the quick application of soft wax, also called speed waxing, is believed to be more comfortable and less painful.
# Shaving
In this method of hair removal, a razor is used to slice each individual hair down to the level of the skin. It’s important to note that in this technique, hair grows back very quickly, especially as compared to waxing.
However, shaving is a cost-effective method since razors are cheap and reusable. It’s also a good last-minute hair removal technique before an important event or when you’re traveling.In addition to the above, you could shave your back it in the comfort of your home, whenever you’d like to. Having said that, you’d still need someone to help you, since it’s risky to try and shave your back yourself.
# EpilatingIn this technique, mechanical epilators are used to pull out the entire hair follicle. In order to ensure that the epilator works, the hair must be at least a quarter inch long. However, in spite of this, the epilator might miss some hair.
Like waxing, epilating is painful. Additionally, mechanical epilators cost anywhere from 50–100 dollars. That said, like shaving, epilating is a convenient option and might be useful while traveling.
# Using Hair Removal CreamsOften referred to as depilatories, hair removal creams contain chemicals that dissolve the protein structure of hair and cause it to separate from the skin. Like shaving, this method is cheap with over-the-counter depilatories costing anywhere between 5–10 dollars.
However, these creams can increase acne, cause skin irritation, and lead to chemical burns if the formula is too strong or the cream is left on for too long. Hence, if you have sensitive skin, it might be best to avoid this technique.
# Getting Laser TreatmentIn this technique, laser beams destroy hair follicles and impair hair regrowth, one small patch of hair at a time. It works best on people with light skin and dark hair but might not be as effective on deeply-embedded hair follicles.
Since the procedure works by targeting the hair’s roots, it’s recommended that people avoid plucking or waxing, six weeks prior to the procedure. This leaves the root intact for removal later on.
Each session could cost up to anything between 20,000-30,000 Rs. And, considering the fact that this treatment requires several sessions for lasting results, laser treatment is the most expensive hair removal option of all of the ones listed above. Additionally, you might experience redness or pigmentation changes after the treatment.