There are about 5 million hairs on the human body and about 65 hairs in one square inch. The main function of hair is to insulate and protect but it is not always aesthetically pleasing. There are various methods available to help visibly minimize the growth of hair.
Shaving - The most common method used to visibly reduce hair on our bodies. We are saying visibly because you are literally cutting the hair off at the point where it meets the skin. Not only does this create microscopic cuts in the skin which can result in bacterial infections, but shaving can stimulate hair growth resulting in constant upkeep every few days. Shaving allows the hair to grow out at a blunt angle which can result in ingrown hairs and general discomfort when growing out.
Depilatory creams – These are chemicals designed to dissolve keratin. Hair is composed of keratin but keratin is also found in nails and skin. These chemicals dissolve the hair just below the skin. The foul odour from the chemical reaction is very off putting and redness & skin irritation may be present after application.
Waxing - A form of depilation which removes the entire hair and root from the hair follicle. New hairs grow back with a fine tapered end which feels soft to the touch. Ingrown hairs are reduced and hair becomes softer, finer and less over time. Waxing can be slightly uncomfortable but considering the long periods of time that you spend hair free makes discomfort a small price to pay.
So why do we sometimes have re growth shortly after a waxing appointment?
We have 3 hair growth stages:
Anagen phase is the active growth phase, this is where the dermal papilla is connected to blood supply, thus growing and living. These are the hairs which react well to waxing. When waxing you will note the black bulb attached to the hair as it is pulled from the follicle. When removed these hairs will grow back within approximately 4 – 6 weeks.
Catagen phase is the transitional phase where the dermal papilla separates and moves up the follicle. These hairs appear to be living but waxing has no effect on these hairs other than speeding up the rate at which they move up the follicle.
Telogen phase is the rest phase. During this phase the dermal papilla is loosely attached to the follicle and a new hair will grow form this point. Depilatory methods have no effect on the hair during this phase.
Whichever method you choose there is nothing better than having silky smooth legs. As they say, beauty knows no pain and one must suffer to be beautiful. Ask your epilation expert today about how you can be hair fee & care free.
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