epilatories

Epilatories is the generic name for the hair removal methods that remove entire hairs from their follicles. All epilators provide short term results, typically lasting from a few days to a few weeks. However, these methods achieve longer lasting results than those which can be achieved using depilators. The 5 main types of epilator in the market are:

These devices are very similar to electric razors, except that they pull hairs out of the follicle rather than cutting them off at the skin. They are particularly effective when used on fairly fine hair located on the arms and legs. The more course the hair (e.g. moustache), the less effective and more painful the treatment is likely to be.

This method originated in Egypt and has been used for many thousands of years. First, a sticky sugary solution is applied to the skin and then a reusable strip of cloth is pressed into the substance. Then after a few seconds the strip is quickly pulled away, taking the hairs with it. There are a few advantages which this hairremoval method has over waxing, such as: the sugar solution can be made using easily available ingredients; it only removes the hair and not the skin, and so reduces discomfort; it is applied warm and not hot as with waxing; waxes contain chemicals that can irritate the skin; and it is easier to clean up afterwards. Sugaring can be done on most areas of the body including the bikini line or pubic area, the chest, back, legs and arms.

This method has been popular in various parts of the world for many centuries. In China, India and Egypt it is called Fatlah, and in the Middle East it is known as Khite. It is an inexpensive, fast and effective hair removal technique and does not damage the skin. It is also suitable for any skin type. Basically, it requires the user to wrap cotton thread around a few unwanted hairs and yank them out. It is typically performed on stray facial hair around the face, and to shape eyebrows.

This is 1 of the most common methods of hairremoval. Small metal forceps are used to pull hairs out of their follicles. If a large area is to be treated, several hairs can be extracted at the same time. This method is typically performed on stray hair around the body, the bikini area, or to shape eyebrows.

There are 2 waxing methods: hot and cold (also known as Persian waxing). Hot waxing is by far the most common. The hot wax technique requires melted wax to be applied directly on to the skin. A strip of cloth or paper is then pressed into the setting wax. After a few seconds the strip is quickly pulled away, removing the hairs and skin with it. The only difference with the cold wax method is that the wax is first applied to the strip of cloth and then pressed on to the skin when it has cooled. This method is not suitable for certain skin types (e.g. broken skin) or those on certain medications (e.g. Retin-A), as the skin is more prone to irritation and damage.

The Brazilian waxing technique has become more common practice and, as the name suggests, originated in Brazil. Initially used by women for bikini waxing but now used by both sexes, this pubic hair removal technique is applied to the male and female genital area to either remove all or nearly all the hair.