Unwanted hair is common on the upper lip, the chin, cheeks, on the back, legs, fingers, lower abdomen, bikini line, feet, and toes. Hair in these locations can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics; certain medications such as hormones or steroids; or even medical abnormalities, such as higher androgen (male hormone) levels or conditions of the endocrine system, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Hair removal strategies
There are several ways to remove your unwanted hair, including over-the-counter methods and those administered under a doctor's care. With most of these methods, the hair eventually grows back.
Shaving
Your hair growth rate will determine how often you have to shave the affected region. This is best for legs, arms or facial hair. This hair removal method can cause ingrown hairs in the pubic region, however.
Plucking
Plucking is the most painful method, but may be the most worthwhile for those few hairs you want to remove to reshape your eyebrows or to pull out those few stray hairs that may appear on your face, especially for a woman. You should not use this hair removal method for large areas because it can cause ingrown hairs or scarring.
Depilation
Be cautious when selecting hair removal creams over-the-counter: all creams are not the same. For instance, a hair removal cream designated for facial hair should not be used to remove pubic hair. The chemicals in these products dissolve the hair shaft. But there are the drawbacks--the chemicals can also cause superficial burns. If you have a history of allergic reactions, you may want to seek the advice of your doctor before trying any hair removal creams. Treating a small test area is advisable if an allergic reaction is suspected.
Hot waxing
You can do this at home or you can also have it performed by a professional in a salon. Hot waxing can be messy, and may leave some hairs behind because they can break off. Infection is one side effect to watch for. Still, many women use this hair removal method in the bikini area, on the upper lip, and on the eyebrows.
Laser hair removal
This is one of the longest-lasting methods, and generally requires three to four or more treatment sessions. The laser beam or a light pulse works to destroy the hair bulb. This hair removal treatment can be expensive and sometimes painful. Be sure to select a doctor or health care professional who is highly trained and knowledgeable. Laser treatment is not for everyone--your hair must be dark in color. Laser treatment also requires multiple sessions, but can be used on many parts of the body where unwanted hair may appear.
Electrolysis
There are two primary hair removal methods of electrolysis: galvanic and thermolytic.
- Galvanic: chemically destroys hair follicle; oldest method used, but requires several treatments.
- Thermolytic: uses heat to destroy the hair follicle.
In either case, be sure to find a professional who is highly trained and knowledgeable with this hair removal method. Electrolysis can be used on all parts of the body to remove unwanted hair.
Oral medications
If none of these hair removal methods seem to address your particular problems, ask your doctor about oral medications to inhibit hair growth.
Topical medications
There is a topical cream called Vaniqa® (eflornithine), recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the slowing of facial hair growth in women. This cream slows growth, but must be used on a continuous basis.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 6/12/2007...#11031
