There have been several methods developed for the removal of unwanted hair over the decades. Temporary methods will either pull the hair out, or hide it from view. Permanent methods require professionals to use mediums such as electricity or energy to destroy the hair follicle. Cost, time, and possible risks are crucial factors in choosing the right procedure for you.

Lasting from one day to several weeks, these methods are widely available and are generally less expensive. Techniques such as waxing, sugaring, and plucking have some pain caused by pulling the hair out at the root. By dissolving it or cutting it off, shaving and depilatory creams only affect the hair above the skin's surface. Bleaching creams are generally best for women looking to eliminate facial hair. These kits remove the color from the hair so that it is difficult to see.

Laser hair removal is effective on almost all areas of the body; however, each treatment can be expensive and involve a certain amount of pain and discomfort. Because pale colors reflect light and dark pigments absorb light, lasers are able to burn the hair follicle without affecting the surrounding skin. A black pigmented solution, applied to the area before treatment, increases the amount of light absorbed by the follicle. The light creates a heat that burns the follicle and prevents the hair from growing back.

Cosmetic laser hair removal is not recommended for everyone. Because the laser works on color, this method works best on someone with fair skin and dark hair. People with dark skin will require the use of a specialized long pulse laser that eliminates the hair rather than the follicle itself. Money and time can also be a requirement for laser removal because more than one session is often needed to produce the desired results. Side effects vary from irritation to scarring and bruising. Infection is also a possible risk with laser hair removal as well as changes in the skin's pigment.

Electrolysis uses electricity, hair by hair, to prevent unwanted hair growth. Available to almost everyone, this method is most effective and economical on smaller areas such as eyebrows and underarms. The professional, referred to as an electrologist, uses a needle to focus energy into the hair follicle. The energy, either a low level of electricity, radio waves or a combination of the two, destroys the root of the hair. The dead hair is then plucked out leaving skin smooth. Electrolysis has some disadvantages that need to be considered before treatment. Because it is performed one hair at a time, there is often a large amount of time and cost involved. It is also possible for the electrologist to miss the hair follicle itself causing sores, scars and a risk of infection.

Each hair removal technique, whether permanent or temporary, has its own set of risks and benefits. The amount of time and money involved can also determine the method you choose. Whether you decide on a permanent method performed in a professional setting or a temporary fix done in your bathroom, you too can enjoy smooth, hairless skin.