Hair Removal: Pros & Cons

Removing unwanted hair from our bodies can be a demanding task that requires constant vigilance and maintenance. Often, we are not fully informed about the advantages and disadvantages of various hair removal methods. To assist you in making an informed decision, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on choosing the best hair removal options. This guide covers everything from traditional methods like shaving to advanced procedures such as laser hair removal, ensuring you have all the necessary information to select the most suitable option for your needs.

1) Shaving

Starting with the basics, it doesn't get any simpler than turning to the trusty shaving razor to nick away any unwanted hair.

Pros of shaving

Shaving unwanted hair is quick, fuss-free, cheap, and can be done by yourself from the comfort of home. For many, this is the option they turn to when they need to get groomed in a hurry.

Cons of shaving

While it may be convenient, there are also many downsides to shaving unwanted hair. If you’re not careful, shaving can lead to razor burns and cuts. The shaved skin also gets darker over time, and shaved hair tends to grow back quickly.

2) Plucking/Tweezing

Plucking or tweezing is an especially good method for removing stray hairs that are out of place.

Pros of plucking

The main advantage of plucking or tweezing is that it removes hair right at the root. This ensures that the hair will take a while to grow back to its previous length.

Cons of plucking

However, as you might expect, removing hairs individually is a time-consuming, and painful endeavour. When the new hair grows back, there’s also a chance it can curl back and enter your skin. Ingrown hairs might necessitate a trip to a dermatologist for closer inspection as they can get irritated, infected, or lead to cysts beneath the skin.

3) Depilatory creams

Depilatory creams like Veet are easy to use. You spread them onto the area of skin where you want to remove hair from, leave it there for a few minutes, then wipe it off. Your hair should come off along with the cream, leaving your skin smooth and bare.

Pros of depilatory creams

If you’re not a fan of the pain from shaving cuts or tweezers, then depilatory creams offer a painless, fast, and easy way to remove hair from parts of your body.

Cons of depilatory creams

It’s important to note that depilatory creams are powerful chemicals that break down the structure of your hair, weaken and then dissolve it. Care should be taken when using depilatory creams as some people may get allergic reactions or encounter chemical burns. If you’re unsure about using depilatory creams, you can talk to a dermatologist to get expert advice on the suitability of this hair removal method for you.

4) Waxing

Waxing can be done either by pouring melted wax over your skin under the supervision of a salon professional or by using wax strips at home.

Pros of waxing

Waxing is great for removing large amounts of hair at once. Like tweezing or plucking, it also removes hair from the root which makes regrowth slower and finer.

Cons of waxing

Waxing is painful and many people aren’t able to tolerate the process. The hot wax can also potentially cause skin burns. People who are on acne medication will also be warned by their dermatologists to stay away from all forms of waxing as it can cause permanent scarring.

5) Sugaring

Often touted as an alternative to waxing, sugaring involves using a natural gel-like paste made of lemon, sugar, and water, that is applied to the area where you want body hair removed.

Pros of sugaring

If you have sensitive skin and options like waxing or depilatory creams are not suitable, then sugaring might be a safer and healthier choice. Sugaring also removes hair from the root which means you can go longer between sessions. It is natural, hygienic, and generally considered safe.

Cons of waxing

There is still some pain associated with sugaring, although it’s generally less severe than waxing. It can also lead to redness and itching. Another major downside to sugaring is that it can take a few sessions before your skin will be completely hair-free.

6) Laser hair removal

Laser hair removal in Singapore involves the use of lasers that are able to penetrate the top layer of skin and damage the hair follicles beneath.

Pros of laser hair removal

Laser hair removal has long-lasting results as it inhibits future hair growth. It can also be tuned to be used on almost any part of the body safely. It is usually fast, effective, and efficient. It is most effective on people who have lighter skin paired with dark hair, but can be used for all skin types.

Cons of laser hair removal

For laser hair removal to really show results, multiple sessions may be recommended. There are also rare side effects like blistering, scarring, and crusting that patients should be aware of.

If you’re looking for dermatologists in Singapore, Thomson Specialist Skin Centre provides scientifically-backed treatment methods that cover a wide range of dermatological conditions. Reach out to us today to find out more about the services we provide and let us know how we can help you.