By Dr Ganesh Avhad, Dermatology
Although much has been spoken in favor as well as against the removal of body hair in different discourses, one can’t deny the fact that hair removal has emerged as one of the most pertinent fashion concerns for many in the recent times. To remove unwanted hair, one may resort to various techniques of hair removal. There are several gender norms associated with body hair. Accordingly, hair removal methods vary across the genders. In the recent context, more people are predisposed towards a more tenable solution to the problem of unwanted hair. Consequently, curiosity and preference for laser surgeries have become more widespread.
Body hair is essentially dead protein or keratin. While some may be coarse and darker, the others are fine and light. The appearance and the texture of the hair depend upon the anatomical location. The preference to keep or evict body hair may differ but one must take cognizance of the fact that body hair serves certain critical functions. Hair protects the skin from external trauma and ultraviolet rays. Certain hair removing techniques also tantamount to damage to your skin. However, for various cosmetic purposes, sooner or later we all resort to one hair removal technique or the other.
Be it the sleek shave before the much awaited date or the spotless underarms when sporting the halter dress, unwanted hair should never get in the way of the big day. For a more permanent and lasting treatment, Laser surgery and electrolysis have become popular methods. Laser therapy focuses concentrated light on the hair follicles and destroys them completely. Laser therapy minimizes the damage to the skin as well as works effectively in removing hair from delicate areas like the bikini line, underarms and face. While laser hair removal tactics are relatively harmless, in order to assuage any sort of exposure to the sun. One must also be mindful of the fact that sometimes they can be painful.
