Our face is usually covered with very fine and small hair called vellus hair. But as we age, these hairs tend to become larger, darker and more obtrusive terminal hair. It’s more common for men to see such growth in their ears. Thus, as we age, this cosmetic problem requires some permanent removal system.

Unwanted hair on face can be a very unpleasant site. It also leads to lower self esteem.

There are various temporary facial hair removal methods. These include

Depilatory creams

Tweezing

Waxing

Shaving

Bleaching

Trimming

Using Epilators

Permanent Facial hair removal techniques are:-

Electrolysis- In this method, low level electricity is used to disable the hair follicle. This process literally burns the hair follicle thus preventing it from producing more hair. The process is time consuming as each hair is treated individually. Usually, it takes many years of repetitive treatment and money to get the desired results. It is however suitable to get rid of facial hair especially eyebrows and upper lips.

This procedure must be done by licensed technician.

Laser facial hair removal- As the laser technology is more understood, its treatment on various body parts has become a common practice. Laser works by introducing a light of a particular wavelength which is absorbed by the melanin and destroys it.

This procedure is not suitable for all. One must consult the physician prior to undergoing this method of facial hair removal. As facial hair are very fine and are comparatively more difficult to treat.

Also, there are different growth cycles of hair. Hair in all phases must be treated to get the desired result.

Laser works fine if you have dark hair on upper lip, chin and eyebrows. But if you have lighter hair, then electrolysis works better as a means of permanent removing the facial hair.

Women having mustache, side burns or chin hair don’t have to suffer with it. Men also have a great alternative to shaving everyday. Also, there will be no ingrown hair or razor burns.

Almost 25% patients for permanent facial hair removal are men. This procedure can be performed on the entire face or on the selected areas. There is no need of anesthesia as it is a non surgical procedure. The duration of the procedure depends on the area being treated. It can vary from 5 minutes to 15 minutes for a full facial hair removal treatment. This treatment is done once a month for 4-6 months depending on the hair growth cycle and desired results.

It is very important to have realistic expectations from this treatment. So, one should be mentally prepared for any outcome and must be aware of them. People who have light skin and dark hair are ideal candidates for this procedure. However, depending on the type of laser and technology being used, it is now becoming easier and possible to treat people with different facial skin tones and hair textures. Laser facial hair removal is so far the best solution to the unwanted facial hair. This treatment is not always permanent and over time, some re-growth is possible.

Facial hair removal procedure is performed by a qualified, professional and experienced surgeon. The area is first treated by the physician and a hand held laser instrument is pressed against the skin. This instrument sends the pulse of light into the hair shaft that absorbs this light energy. It then goes in the dormant form. The procedure is relatively painless thought some mild hot sensation might be felt.

After removal of facial hair through laser, one might feel redness, crusting of skin or little sensitivity in the treated area. These are all temporary effects and will disappear in a week or so. One must avoid direct sun for few days after the treatment. Always use a good suntan cream before going out.

There may also be following side effects

1. Skin discoloration
2. Burning
3. Blistering

But these all are temporary effects

It’s difficult to choose the best facial hair removal method. It is important to do some study and talk to few people who have undergone any kind of procedure to combat the problem. Make and informed decision and don’t be fooled by the false claims and heavy discounts.