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update: the latest in hair removal
the latest from madison magazine on hair removal methods and products. not sure how much “product placement” has occurred (i.e. payment by businesses to the magazine so as to have their particular product mentioned in an article), so the list may not necessarily be a list of the best products or techniques:
update: the latest in hair removal
The latest and greatest in hair removal techniques to keep you smooth all summer.
Wax
It takes commitment (and courage) to DIY, but if you do it, these are some of our favourites: Natural Hair Removal Gel, $13.95, by Nad’s, 1800 352 626, is a cool alternative to warm wax. The formulation works with the body’s natural heat and is well-suited to more sensitive skin. Salon Wax, $14.95, by Waxaway, 1800 245 412, is a peel-off wax that is particularly great for coarse hairs and the bikini line. Hair Removal Wax Strips, $18.95 (for 10), by The Body Shop, 1800 065 232, slip easily into your holiday bag.Epilator
Okay, they still hurt – tweezing out hundreds of hairs in one go is never going to be a breeze. But the new epilators are quicker and better than before and are able to grab hairs as tiny as half a millimetre in length. Try: BodyBare Trio, $119, by Emjoi, 1300 881 861, or Silk-épil Xpressive, $179.95, by Braun, 1800 641 820.At-home laser
The No! No! is an iPod-esque device that’s billed as the at-home alternative to laser hair removal – albeit a painless version and one that works on all hair colours. It has a two-way effect: a heated wire cuts hair at surface level, while the heat penetrates into the hair shaft to purportedly weaken the follicle so that hair grows back finer. Our verdict: it’s impressively easy to wield and effective in result – just be prepared for the smell of singed hair. No! No!, $280, by Self Care at Myer, 1300 696 666.Razor
It’s still the quickest and easiest de-fuzzing option and gives the skin a silky-smooth look and feel. Our favourite tool is the Venus Embrace, $14.99, by Gillette, 1800 641 820. As for what to shave with – take your pick. A gel is best for sensitive skin as it provides a barrier between blade and skin; a cream is lovely for dry skin; and an oil gives extra glide, not to mention resulting in a gleaming finish. Try: Shaving Gel, $10.95, by King of Shaves, 02 9130 3305; 3in1 Shave Créme for Women, $8.50, by TriShave, 02 9418 1115; Nuts About You Sweet Almond Cleansing Oil, $28, by Bloom, 03 9421 0200.Cream
Depilatory creams may seem a little messy, but are a pain-free hair removal option. Two to try: Moisturising Hair Remover Cream for Dry & Sensitive Skin, $9.99, by Nair, 1800 222 099, contains camelia oil and ylang-ylang; and In Shower Hair Removal Cream for Dry Skin, $17.99, by Veet, 02 9325 4042, which features water-resistant ingredients so that it works while you wash.In-salon laser
Laser hair removal, which promises up to 80 per cent reduction of hair growth, is a booming industry. Even Nad’s, the leaders in DIY de-fuzzing, has opened several laser hair-removal clinics (currently in Sydney, but set to go national, call 1300 850 106 for information). “We have to keep up with the times,†says Nadine Ismiel, Nad’s research and development manager, who trialed dozens of technologies before deciding on the Alexandrite and Nd:YAG lasers. Another therapist in favour of these medical-grade lasers is Sia Krebs from Laser by Sia, 3 Waverley Street, Bondi Junction, 02 8323 7510. She maintains they are much more effective than the IPL variety. One shortcoming (aside from the pain), is that even the latest laser technology is unable to work on paler hairs.Did you know…
Threading – a Middle Eastern technique where a therapist uses cotton thread to twist around and pull out hairs – is most common for facial work, but Nicole Weinberg from Sydney’s Skin & Tonic (02 9331 1016) notes it’s also suited to problem areas. “I use it to remove knuckle and toe hair, and even stomach trails.â€ÂNewsflash!
Take the ouch out of laser hair removal with emla, a topical anaesthetic approved for use before cosmetic procedures. While it works well, we have two gripes: it needs to be covered in cling wrap while on skin for an hour, and it leaves the area numb for several hours post-treatment. emla is available from pharmacies, from $50, 1800 805 342.Some extra essentials…
Skin soother: After Care Lotion, $8.95, by Waxaway, 1800 245 412.
Ingrown treatment: Rapid Clear Daily Cleansing Pads, $13.99 (for 60), by Neutrogena, 1800 678 380, are actually designed for the spot-prone face, but make for a great ingrown-preventing treatment on a problematic bikini line.
Scrub: Birch Body Scrub, $19.50, by Weleda, 02 9918 0911.
Moisturiser: Cocoa Butter Formula Leg Gloss, $9.95, by Palmer’s, 1800 640 043. Features hair growth-minimising ingredients, plus a skin tone evening tint.The link: http://www.madisonmag.com.au/tips_and_tricks_update_the_latest_in_hair_removal.htm
may your world be sleek and smooth!