Threading, waxing, bleaching or something else – what’s the best way to get rid of unwanted facial hair?

Unwanted facial hair can be tricky to get rid of. Here are some solutions.

I am 25 years old and have thick facial hair growth which is very embarrassing. How can I get rid of it? Please suggest a few options as it is a delicate area.

Unwanted facial hair growth can be quite troublesome. However, there are various ways in which you can tackle this problem. Here are some options:

Bleaching

Although bleaching is not a hair removal method, it changes the colour of the hair which helps in camouflaging it. It involves applying a paste on the face and keeping it for 10-15 minutes and then washing it off. Once this is done, the hair colour matches your skin tone, making it unnoticeable.

This method is effective as the colour stays for weeks. You can buy a kit and do it yourself at home or get it done at a beauty parlour which will be slightly expensive.

Tips to keep in mind:

• Do not over-do it or expose your skin to the sun after bleaching at least for an hour and even when you do, apply ample sunscreen before you step out.
• Stay away from harsh bleaches especially if you have sensitive skin.
• But if you have a very thick growth then bleaching won t help. Here's how you can bleach your skin naturally at home.

Waxing

Waxing is done using a strip and wax which is applied on the hair and then pulled off to remove it from its root. Many beauty salons offer special waxes like chocolate or mango wax for facial hair removal. Apparently, the growth is prolonged leaving your skin feeling smooth after the session.

Tips to keep in mind:

• While waxing does remove hair from the root, one should note that the skin on the face is very delicate and thin, and regular pulling will result in loose skin, especially the area around the mouth. So if possible, don t opt for this method for the face. Read about Normal wax VS Flavoured wax which is better for hair removal?
• If you do opt for it, make sure the practitioner holds your skin taut from one end to cause less pain.
• Do not wax the same area too many times in one session as it will redden the skin and lead to boils.

Threading

Threading is done with the help of a thread where the hair is pulled out by a criss-cross movement, cutting it out just like a scissor would cut cloth. Many find this method quite painful, leaving their skin red for quite some time.

Tips to keep in mind:

• If you opt for this method, remember you will have to undergo the pain every few days since the hair isn t pulled out from the root, it grows back faster.
• Also, constant threading on the face can leave marks on the cheeks.
• If your skin is not held tightly or is very delicate, you could get cuts.
• After threading, make sure you apply something soothing to close the pores.

Laser

Laser hair reduction is also a good option and a near permanent solution. It requires a few number of sittings as per your hair growth. Though it can be slightly expensive, it reduces and prolongs the growth and makes the hair finer in appearance which makes it a worthwhile treatment.

Tips to keep in mind:

• Ask them to apply numbing cream if you cannot bear the pain.
• Make sure you apply a soothing gel or ice post laser treatment and sun-protect your skin.
• You will have to wait for the hair to grow completely before you go for your next session to see best results.

Hair removal creams

These days, DIY hair removal creams are quite popular. You can choose a mild one to remove facial hair. Again, it is best to go for creams which are specially made for facial hair removal than a generic one.

Tips to keep in mind:

• Keep the usage to once a month to avoid any side-effects.
• If you feel it is too strong for your skin then discontinue its use.

Home remedies

There are various ingredients easily available in your kitchen which you can make use of to reduce the growth on your face. The only hitch is, it takes time for the results to show and you need to regularly stick to the opted treatment. Here are a few things you can try:

• Chemical-free home remedies
• Kuppaimeni leaves pack
• Egg pack

Shaving the face

While using a razor to shave one s body hair is a common practice amongst women, it should not be an option when it comes to the removal of facial hair as it will result in faster and harder hair growth which will be even more difficult to get rid of. However, shaving the face is a new trend these days which helps remove dead skin cells. A good idea is to try a few of the mentioned options and then decide which one is better suited for your skin and face. Also read reasons for unwanted hair in women.

Image source: Getty Images

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