The Tamesis
How long will it last?
Results usually last four weeks, Dr. Murphy-Ross said. As for aftercare, she recommends using gentle skin care products to avoid irritation and minimizing heat or friction for 24 hours.
Oral medications
Dr. Murphy-Ross says oral medications do not remove hair directly. Conversely, some medications that target the underlying hormone can also reduce hair growth over time. The most common medications include spironolactone, which blocks androgen receptors, and certain oral contraceptives, which help regulate hormone levels.
Where does it work best?
Because oral medications are particularly helpful for hormone-driven hair growth, they’re best suited for hair on the face, chest, chin and lower abdomen, explains Dr. Murphy-Rose.
How do you use it?
It depends on which oral medication you choose, so be sure to ask your doctor how to safely take your chosen medication.
How can you prepare?
This also depends on the oral medications you take. For best preparation, consult your doctor.
How long will it last?
Dr. Murphy-Ross says the effects are gradual and usually take several months to show, but they continue to improve over time. She adds that there’s no traditional aftercare, and you’ll need to do it under medical supervision.
laser
As Dr. Murphy-Ross explains, laser hair removal uses specific wavelengths of light to target the pigment in the hair follicles to destroy them and reduce future hair growth. The results last longer than waxing, threading or tweezing, but feel more like an investment.
Where does it work best?
Traditionally, lasers work best when there is a sharp 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. “Dark skin increases the risk of burns, and light hair reduces effectiveness.”
But Dr. Murphy-Ross said there are newer techniques that are safer and more effective for a wider range of skin tones. So do your research and ask a trained technician about your best options.
How do you use it?
For in-office treatments, lasers use light energy that is converted into heat, which damages hair follicles and reduces future hair growth. Dr. King says home appliances use lower energy settings, so they’re safe for your own use.
How can you prepare?
Dr. Murphy-Rose recommends avoiding sun exposure and shaving the area before treatment. She also said you may experience mild discomfort during treatment. “Many patients describe the sensation as a quick breaking sensation or warmth,” she says.
How long will it last?
Dr. King says laser is most effective if the hair is in the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle, and multiple treatments are expected for best results. “For in-office laser treatments, I typically tell patients that they need five to seven sessions initially, spaced at least four weeks apart, and then maintain one to two sessions per year,” she says. “More treatments are needed when using home devices because less energy is used.”
electrolysis
Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal method. Dr. Murphy-Rose explains that unlike laser hair removal, it does not rely on pigment to destroy hair follicles and is suitable for all hair colors, including blondes, grays and grays.
