Are you new to removing hair from your body? Have you tried waxing or tweezing? Have people told you that these can lead to sagging skin? Then fear not, as we at OnlyMyHealth spoke to an expert to answer all your queries. Dr Pooja Chopra, Dermatologist, Aakash Healthcare, New Delhi, says, “Hair removal methods are a common concern for many individuals looking to get rid of unwanted hair. Various methods are available ranging from easy and cheap options like tweezing and waxing to expensive treatments like laser hair removal.” Let us take a look at it in detail.
Basic Hair Removal Methods
Some of the basic hair removal methods include:
Shaving: Shaving involves using a razor or an electric shaver to cut the hair at the skin’s surface. It is a quick and painless method, but the results are temporary and the hair usually grows back within a few days.
Waxing: Waxing involves applying hot or cold wax to the skin, pressing a cloth strip onto the wax, and then quickly pulling the strip in the opposite direction of hair growth to remove the hair from the root. The results can last for several weeks, and with regular waxing, hair growth may become finer and sparser.
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Plucking: Plucking involves using tweezers to pull out individual hairs. It is commonly used for small areas like eyebrows and facial hair, but it can be time-consuming and painful.
Depilatory creams: Also known as hair removal creams, these contain chemicals that break down the hair’s protein structure, making it easy to wipe or wash the hair away. The results are temporary, and the regrowth is usually softer than after shaving.
Can Tweezing Cause Sagging Skin?
Many share a common concern when it comes to tweezing tiny hair from their body. Does it cause sagging skin?
Dr Chopra says, “It is a common misconception that tweezing causes sagging skin, however, that is not true. To avoid side effects, gentle plucking and keeping tweezers clean are essential. Using a gentle moisturiser after tweezing helps to soothe the skin and relieve pain.”
According to her, tweezing is a popular method for removing unwanted hair and shaping eyebrows. The method is more precise since hair is plucked individually which makes it suitable for small areas like upper lip, chin or eyebrows.
“Although not a permanent solution, tweezing is quick and easy, avoiding the need for shaving cream or hot wax. However, improper or too much tweezing or plucking hairs that are too short can lead to skin trauma, hyperpigmentation, scarring, ingrown hairs, and folliculitis,” she adds.
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What About Waxing?
Same goes for waxing. It does not cause sagging skin, as per the dermatologist.
“Waxing is favoured by many as it can keep the skin smooth and hair-free for weeks at a stretch. The concern that waxing causes sagging skin due to repeated pulling is not true. Rather, professional wax products often contain vitamins and natural ingredients that protect the skin and promote cell regeneration, resulting in a glowing and healthy look,” she explains, adding, “While it may cause temporary redness or irritation, it does not cause the skin to sag. Even for individuals with saggy skin, waxing is not known to cause skin damage or worsen the condition.”
However, a study published in the International Journal of Dermatology found that folliculitis from waxing is a possibility and occurs most often on the arms. Folliculitis is the inflammation of hair follicles, often caused by bacterial or fungal infections, leading to red, pimple-like bumps on the skin.
Laser Hair Removal – A More Permanent Solution?
Another type of hair removal method that the doctor discusses is laser hair removal, which according to her, is a more permanent option for hair removal that should be performed by a licensed professional.
“It typically requires multiple sessions over several weeks to be fully effective. The procedure involves using lasers to target the hair pigment (melanin) and vaporise the hair, preventing regrowth for several months or even years,” she says.
“While effective, laser hair removal may cause discomfort, swelling, and redness similar to a sunburn. It is essential to choose a licensed professional to avoid potential burns, skin colour changes, and scarring,” the doctor adds.
Conclusion
Choosing a hair removal method may depend on various factors, including your skin type, budget and time.
“While waxing is effective for most people and offers longer-lasting results without causing sagging skin, tweezing is suitable for small areas and quick fixes. Laser hair removal is best for individuals with light skin and dark hair and is a more permanent solution,” says the doctor, concluding by adding, “Whatever method you choose, ensure it is done correctly and safely to minimise side effects and achieve the desired results.”
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