How long will it last?
Dr. Murphy-Rose says results typically last to four weeks. As for aftercare, she recommends using gentle skincare, avoiding irritants, and minimizing heat or friction for 24 hours.
Oral Meds
Oral medications don’t remove hair directly, says Dr. Murphy-Rose. Instead, some medications that target underlying hormones are also able to reduce hair growth over time. The most common ones include spironolactone, which blocks androgen receptors, and certain oral contraceptives that help regulate hormone levels.
Where does it work best?
Dr. Murphy-Rose explains that because oral meds are particularly helpful for hormonally driven hair growth, they are best for hair on the face, chest, chin, and lower abdomen.
How do you use it?
This will be dependent on which oral med you opt for, so be sure to ask your doctor how to safely take your medication of choice.
How can you prep for it?
This is also dependent on which oral med you take. For best prep, ask your doctor.
How long will it last?
Dr. Murphy-Rose says results are gradual and can typically take several months to become noticeable, but there is continued improvement over time. She adds that there is no traditional aftercare, and you’ll want to take it under medical supervision.
Laser
As Dr. Murphy-Rose explains, laser hair removal uses a specific wavelength of light to target pigment in the hair follicle to damage it and reduce future hair growth. Results last longer than waxing, threading, or tweezing, but can be more of an investment.
Where does it work best?
Traditionally, lasers work best when there is a stark contrast between hair and skin. “Because these devices target melanin, the best candidates will be those with light skin and dark hair,” says board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD. “Darker skin will increase the risk of burning, and lighter hair can decrease the effectiveness.”
But there are newer technologies that are made safer and more effective for a wider range of skin tones, says Dr. Murphy-Rose. So do your research and ask a trained technician for your best options.
How do you use it?
For in-office treatments, lasers use light energy that is converted to heat that damages the hair follicle and reduces future hair growth. At-home devices, says Dr. King, use a lower energy setting so it’s safe to use on your own.
How can you prep for it?
Dr. Murphy-Rose recommends avoiding sun exposure and shaving the area prior to treatment. She also says to expect mild discomfort during treatment. “Many patients describe the sensation as a quick snapping or warming feeling,” she says.
How long will it last?
Dr. King says that a laser is most effective if the hair is in its growth phase in the hair growth cycle, and to expect multiple sessions for best results. “For in-office laser treatments, I generally tell patients to expect to need five to seven sessions initially, spaced at least four weeks apart, and then maintenance once or twice per year,” she says. “More treatments will be needed when using at-home devices because the energy used is lower.”
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is a permanent method of hair removal. Dr. Murphy-Rose explains that, unlike laser hair removal, it doesn’t rely on pigment to destroy the follicle and is suitable for all hair colors, including blonde, gray, and white hair.
/https://thumbor.globoi.com/unsafe/fit-in/1280x720/s01.video.glbimg.com/deo/vi/68/66/14536668?w=120&resize=120,86&ssl=1 "Aniversário de Brasília: opções de lazer para aproveitar o feriado | G1")
