Archive for July, 2007

Hair Removal Methods

July 31st, 2007 at 04:23pm Under Hair Removal+ Laser Hair Removal+ Waxing

Women have an endless supply of options when it comes to hair removal. There are temporary options and permanent options, painless options and painful options. This article will go over the basic choices women have in hair removal today.
Shaving
This is the classic method of hair removal. You just apply a lubricating gel or foam and go over your skin with a razor. This is probably the oldest and the cheapest method of hair removal. The disadvantages of shaving though are quite numerous. For starters, it is very temporary. You will probably have to shave every couple of days to maintain smooth skin. Shavers are also prone to side effects such as nicks, cuts and ingrown hairs.
Depilatory Creams
Your next option is depilatory creams. These work by actually dissolving the hair. To use them, you apply the cream to your body and allow it to work for 5 or 10 minutes. You then remove the cream with a special tool provided with the cream or simply rinse it off. One disadvantage of this method is that it may not work for all hair types. People with thick hair might find that it does not completely remove the hair. You might have to touch it up with a razor. Another disadvantage is that these creams can smell. The odor might not be annoying to you or you might absolutely hate it.
Waxing
Waxing is perhaps one of the most feared hair removal methods. A wax is applied to the skin, followed by a strip of paper or cloth. After the wax cools, the paper is ripped off of the body quickly. This method is very effective with results that last much longer than shaving. The downside is obvious. Pain. It can be quite painful especially when you get closer to more sensitive areas.
Electrolysis
With Electrolysis, an electrode is applied to the hair follicle and it sends an electric charge to the follicle. The electrical charge destroys it preventing it from growing hair in the future. This method has a long proven track record and will provide permanent hair removal. One disadvantage of this method is that it can, like waxing, be painful. It also is a tedious process and can be expensive.
Lasers
Laser Hair Removal is one of the latest methods of hair removal. In this method, laser light is applied to the hair . The light is then converted into heat which destroys the follicle. This method has the advantage of being nearly pain free and of course permanent. One disadvantage of laser hair removal is that it can get expensive. You will need several treatments to completely remove our body hair since hair grows in different stages. Also, laser hair removal does not work well with people with light hair such as blond and gray hair.
As you can see, the choices for hair removal are numerous. It ultimately comes down to your personal preference. Hopefully this article has given you the basics so you can make an educated decision on what method is right for you.

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Shaving – Wet Shaving – Trimming

July 26th, 2007 at 09:46pm Under Shaving

Shaving is the removal of body or facial hair, a common depilation method using a razor or any other device using blades to slice the hair down to the level of the skin. Both men and women often shave their chest hair, abdominal hair, leg hair, underarm hair, pubic hair or other body and facial hair. Shaving is fast, easy, painless, effective, and inexpensive. Contrary to a widespread misconception, shaving does not result in increased hair growth. The primary disadvantages of shaving include skin irritation, cuts in the skin, ingrown hairs (also called razor bumps, shave bumps or pseudofolliculitis barbae), and the need to shave daily. However, there are a few tricks that can help you get that perfect shave without any problems at all. This guide will tell you.

Results are temporary, lasting only for 1-3 days.

Tools for Shaving

  • A good safety razor (also known as: double-edge safety razor or DE razor): either quality regular kind with disposable heads, or an electric razor, which is designed for wetshaving.
  • A shaving brush.
  • A good glycerin-based pre-shave lotion or oil to help soften the beard. By using it, the beard will start to bristle up as the natural moisture evaporates. The dry hair will stands up straight, allowing you to get a closer shave.
  • A non-alcohol based aftershave.
  • An exfoliating face wash.
  • Warm water: body shaving is best done in the shower or bath.
  • A well-lit bathroom mirror.
  • A clean towel and face cloth.
  • Plenty of fresh blades.

The Razor

If you’re going to shave regularly, invest in a quality razor like the Gillette adjustable DE or a Merkur safety razor. Multi blades are not recommended for African-American men who tend to develop razor bumps, or if you have a very heavy beard.

A straight razor is not recommended for shaving your body hair, and I don’t really recommend using it anyway. You could cut yourself easily.

Steps of shaving with safety razor

  • Trim hair with trimmers or scissors if you’re starting with a full beard.
  • Have a hot shower before you shave. Wash your face with an exfoliant facial cleanser. The heat and wetness will help to soften your beard and lift up the hairs. With a layer of hot water between your skin and the shaving cream, the blade skims the surface instead of dragging on it, which is the main cause of cuts, redness, and razor bumps. Have your shaving kit ready, so when you get out of the shower, you can start right away before your beard has a chance to dry.
  • Apply your shaving cream with a shaving brush. The brush will further help to soften your beard and exfoliate your skin. The important thing is to provide lubrication for the razor.
  • Pick the right blade. A safety razor that uses a double edged razor blade will provide a closer and easier shave than any disposable razor on the market for a fraction of the cost.
  • Start with one side of your face and work steadily towards the other side, doing small sections at a time.
  • Use short, light, downward strokes to remove the bulk of the hair. Pull the skin straight and taut with one hand, and shave with the other. Do not apply pressure with the razor. If you need to, it means your razor is too dull.
  • Rinse the blade often to keep it from clogging.
  • A good angle between a disposable razor and the skin is about 30 degrees. Electric razors should come with hints, many are best at a 45 degree angle. Nicks and cuts happen when the blade is held at too large of an angle against your skin. It should glide over your skin and you shouldn’t be able to feel it.
  • After you’ve shaved your whole face in a downward direction, rinse your face in warm water, re-apply more shaving cream, and start again going in an upward direction to remove the remaining stubble. Disposable razors usually instruct you to shave in the direction of the hair growth, but I find I get a much closer shave if I shave in the opposite direction. If you do choose to shave against the hair growth, be sure you’ve taken the time to soak and are using shaving cream or gel. Otherwise you risk ingrown hairs and razor burn. The risk of ingrown hairs varies from person to person. Some people should never shave except in the direction of the hair growth.
  • Finally, run your fingers over your face to find any rough areas you may have missed. Gently pass the blade over the area in a different direction. Hairs on your neck and jawline generally do not grow straight up or down, but in many different directions that simple up and down motions can miss.
  • Rinse your face in cool water to close the pores and pat dry with a clean towel.

Aftercare: Apply a non-alcohol shaving balm. Rosehip Seed Oil, Jojoba oil. Aloe and tea tree oil can help prevent dry skin and razor burn. You can also use baby oil. Avoid soap-based shave creams and alcohol-based aftershaves. They will over-dry your skin. Don’t apply an eau de toliet, cologne or anti-perspirants to skin right after shaving. An aftershave is basically NOT a cologne you put on your face to smell good. It is supposed to settle your skin down and moisturize it after a blade (or blades) was stroking your face.

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Shaving with an electric shaver (Rotary and Foil)

July 26th, 2007 at 09:44pm Under Shaving

Shaving is the removal of body or facial hair, a common depilation method using a shaver or any other device using blades to slice the hair down to the level of the skin. Both men and women often shave their chest hair, abdominal hair, leg hair, underarm hair, pubic hair or other body and facial hair. Shaving is fast, easy, painless, effective, and inexpensive. Contrary to a widespread misconception, shaving does not result in increased hair growth. The electric shaver has seriously reduced the blood loss, but at the expense of closeness. So the primary disadvantage over regular shaving is, it is not as close. There are however a few tricks that can help you with closeness. Advantages are: no skin irritation, less cuts in the skin, no ingrown hairs (also called razor bumps or pseudofolliculitis barbae), no redness, no pain.

Results are temporary, lasting only for 1-3 days.

Tools for Shaving

  • A good face wash or face scrub.
  • A Glycerin-based pre electric shave lotion or oil to help soften the beard. By using it, the beard will start to bristle up as the natural moisture evaporates. The dry hair will stands up straight allowing you to get a closer shave.
  • An electric razor or also known as electric shaver. There are two basic head types: Foil and Rotary. Foils theoretically offer a closer shave, but have trouble cutting longer hairs. Rotary shavers can cut long hairs, and are easier to maneuver around difficult areas like the chin and neck. However, they often don’t shave as close as the foils. Some people think Rotary razors work better on lighter beards.
  • Electric razor brush.
  • After shave.

Steps of shaving with electric razor

  1. Choose a quality electric razor, a reputable brand, like Braun, Remington or Philips. Personally I own a Philips Philishave HQ 8894 Sensotec Shaver.

    Philips Philishave HQ 8894

    HQ8894. It was presented in the movie JAMES BOND 007 ‘Die Another Day’.

    It has a Pop up trimmer as well. Features also include a polymer display and 100 minutes of shaving time on an hour charge. As I know it is called Norelco Spectra 8894XL now. Also recommended: Braun Syncro 7526. My skin is very sensitive so I use the pop up trimmer for facial and body shaving as well. It is good to remove the longer hairs. The trimmer won’t make your face smooth like a baby butt, but if you are going for that italian look, it is the solution. Not to mention there is absolutely NO irritation or razor burn when you use the trimmer part of the shaver. If you plan on using it in the shower or bath, make sure it is waterproofed.

  2. First you should know whether your face is oily, dry or normal. Your face will shave closer with a dry face. The opposite is wetshaving, and it is explained on the shaving page in details.
  3. Prepare your face. Wash it with a face wash or scrub, and let it dry thoroughly. Then use a good glycerin-based pre-shave lotion or gel. Let it sink into the skin and wait for about 3-5 minutes before you begin using your shaver.
  4. Use gentle pressure against your beard, and shave against the grain of it. That will help pull the hairs out, so the razor will be able to cut it lower and this leads to a closer shave.
  5. Do not press down hard, or move your shaver too rapidly over your face. This will not get you a closer shave but will cause your shaver head to wear out quicker. You need to give it some time to be effective. Especially under your chin and on your neckarea.
  6. Aftercare: Apply a non-alcohol shaving balm. Rosehip Seed Oil, Jojoba oil. Aloe and tea tree oil can help prevent dry skin and razor burn. An aftershave is basically not a cologne you put on your face to smell good. It is supposed to settle your skin down.

Use the time to clean the heads and foil on your shaver. Use the brush that comes with your shaver and brush out all the stubble inside. Brush each head separately and the protective shields as well. Not only will you get a better shave but you will preserve your razors longer.

Tips

  • Read the manual that comes with the razor. It will contain the hints for getting the closest of shaves.
  • Shave daily. Electric razors are much more effective (and less painful) cutting short stubby facial hair, and have a tendency to yank or brush past long hairs.
  • Once monthly give the shaver a complete and thorough cleansing. Run it under hot water and really get the heads and the blades clean. Brush out each blade separately.
  • After shaves, eau de toilettes, and colognes are different things with different uses. Aftershave is for exactly that. It helps close pores and gives you a fresh scent. Its scent lingers for about three hours. If you are seeking fragrance then add cologne or eau de toilettes to your pulse spots (wrists, neck under the ear, and chest.) These scents are stronger so unless you are trying to poison others, only use a little bit. They will last for 5-8 hours.
  • If you frequently get skin irritation while shaving with a razor (razor burn) consider using an electric shaver with a built-in gel dispenser to minimize skin irritation.
  • An electric razor should not cut you. If you are bleeding you are using too much pressure or it is broken. Decide which it is and fix it

Unlike a blade, an electric shaver is intended to be used when your face is dry, so if you prefer shaving after a hot shower (wetshaving), this might not be the best choice for you (the waiting time is 10-15 minutes before you can start using the electric shaver).

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Hair Remover: Best Results with Depilatories

July 24th, 2007 at 03:50pm Under Hair Removal+ Hair Removal Cream

Depilatory creams work quickly, are easy to apply, and effective in the short term by removing hair just below the skin’s surface. Unfortunately, the chemicals that burn off hair can also cause skin irritation. If you have very sensitive skin you may not be able to tolerate these hair remover creams. And, for goodness sake, don’t use them around your eyes!

For best results:

• Apply a warm washcloth to soften the hair and open follicles
• Don’t leave the cream on your skin longer than the recommended time
• Remove the cream
• Extra pressure will help remove more of the hair shaft so use a washcloth—not just water

*Hair removal with a depilatory lasts several days.

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Hair Removal: Number of Sessions

July 24th, 2007 at 03:49pm Under Hair Removal+ Laser Hair Removal

The number of sessions for hair removal depends mostly on gender and the location of the area to be treated. Three to six sessions is average, but it also depends on denseness of the hair and the degree of hair removal required.

Facial hair removal on a man may require prolonged treatment and the exact duration can’t be predicted in advance. The intervals between hair removal sessions also depend on gender and the area of the body to be treated and are spaced progressively.

*For facial hair removal (e.g., moustache, chin), an interval of 6 to 8 weeks is usual.

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Hair Remover: Threading

July 24th, 2007 at 03:49pm Under Hair Removal

Threading, a Mid-Eastern technique that plucks hair at the root by using a twisted piece of thread, is a facial hair remover method for skin that’s too sensitive for laser or waxing. No chemicals are used, and it only takes 15 minutes to do both eyebrows. Before looking into this method, here are some things you should know:

• Only works on flat surfaces (not a good hair remover technique for bikini line and knees)
• Not suitable for someone with bad acne, since the string is dragged over the skin
• Works well on the line running from your belly button to your pubic bone
• Excellent for sprouts on your big toes

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Hair Removal: Types of Hairs

July 24th, 2007 at 03:48pm Under Hair Removal

Do you want the truth? Permanent hair removal is darn near impossible! Your body has three types of hair:

• Vellus (peach fuzz; tiny colorless hairs)
• Intermediate (thin, some pigmentation)
• Terminal (deep-rooted coarse hairs, either pigmented or gray)

The terminal hairs are usually the ones you want terminated. The amounts of each type of hair and their growth cycles vary among people, making it hard to compare hair removal results between you and others. Depending on the body area, from 20% to 85% of hairs are in the anlagen (growth) stage.

*Many hair removal methods are more effective on actively growing hair. Consequently, a single hair removal treatment cannot treat all your hairs.

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Laser Hair Removal: Quack Claims

July 24th, 2007 at 03:48pm Under Laser Hair Removal

You may encounter quack claims about laser hair removal being permanent or painless. Some practitioners may boast of “permanent hair removal” or “100% permanent” or “permanent.” Some people experience permanent reduction of treated hair over the course of treatment, but published studies have reported that many people are not good candidates and get poor results.

Even ideal candidates with light skin and dark hair do not always respond to treatment. Another claim may be for “guaranteed 0% regrowth.” No published clinical data substantiates this promise. Some hair removal practitioners claim their treatment is “painless” or “virtually painless.” Many clients tolerate laser hair removal without requiring pain relief, but it is inaccurate to claim that treatment will be painless for everyone.

*Don’t believe the hoopla! Educate yourself on hair removal procedures and facts before getting sold on false ideas.

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Hair Removal: Permanent or Reduced?

July 24th, 2007 at 03:48pm Under Hair Removal

Permanent hair removal is often confused with permanent hair reduction—a term approved by the FDA in 1998. The FDA allows some manufacturers of hair removal lasers and flash lamps used for depilation to use the term “permanent hair reduction,” which the agency defines as:

“The long-term, stable reduction in the number of hairs regrowing after a treatment regime. The number of hairs regrowing must be stable over a time greater than the duration of the complete growth cycle of hair follicles, which varies from 4-12 months according to body location. Permanent hair reduction does not necessarily imply the elimination of all hairs in the treatment area.”

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Hair Removal vs. Lightening

July 24th, 2007 at 03:47pm Under Hair Removal

If hair removal sounds too painful, you might consider purchasing a cream to merely lighten facial hair rather than trying a hair removal product. Don’t choose just anything off the shelf, however.

Look for a product that is easy to mix and has a smooth consistency. The product should make facial hair fade away. Many women prefer such lightening creams to waxing (especially in delicate areas such as above the upper lip).

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Hair Remover: Home Waxing Products

July 24th, 2007 at 03:47pm Under Hair Removal+ Waxing

Some home hair removal waxing products are better than others although most are cheaper than going to a waxing salon.

One key to waxing is letting the wax heat up properly before applying it. Keep in mind, however, that achieving the correct and safest temperature can be tricky. The wax rolls on best when it is very hot but you don’t want to burn your skin.

*Some hair remover systems come with oil to soothe your skin after removing the wax.
If the one you bought doesn’t include oil, apply oil or lotion from your own supply. And, always keep in mind that waxing at home takes practice and patience.

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Laser Hair Removal: Disadvantages

July 24th, 2007 at 03:46pm Under Laser Hair Removal

Long-term data on the safety and effectiveness of laser hair removal have not been accurately established. Neither have response and regrowth rates (which can’t be predicted due to numerous variables).

Laser hair removal is usually not as effective on gray, red, or blonde hair. It must be used cautiously (if at all) on darker skin tones or on consumers who tan themselves. Improper laser hair removal treatment can cause burns, lesions, skin discoloration lasting several months, or patchy/patterned regrowth.

Recent data suggests that laser irradiation affects other skin structures—so long term effects constitute an unknown risk. Laser hair removal requires eye protection and can be expensive. Some people find treatment painful. Regulation varies among states, so controls to ensure competent practitioners are inadequate. Even some ideal candidates do not respond to treatment.

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Hair Remover: Depilatory

July 24th, 2007 at 03:46pm Under Hair Removal

A depilatory is a lotion or cream hair remover that is chemical-based. This product dissolves hair at the skin’s surface. Here are some of the benefits and choices associated with this product:

• Some depilatories target fine hair while others are aimed at coarse hair
• Different strengths are available to dissolve the strongest of hairs
• They are quick and easy to use.
• They come in formulations for body and face

*Since chemicals are used to dissolve the hair, irritation can occur. It is very important to do a test before using this hair remover product.

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