When most of us think of removing unwanted hair, we think of things like shaving and waxing. But there is a slightly different device that many people use, and that is the epilator. You may have heard of this or even used it. To be precise, this is an electric device that first removes the hair, just like waxing.
Simply put, what is an epilator?
An epilator is a small electrical device that removes hair directly from the hair follicle , rather than cutting it off at the surface of the skin. It works like a small tweezers.
The biggest advantage of this over shaving is that the results last for weeks. Because the hair falls out first, it takes a long time for new hair to grow back to the surface of the skin. So you don't have to remove hair as often. Although it may be a little painful at first, it saves time and effort in the long run.
An epilator that can be used at home can usually be purchased for thousands of rupees or more. These methods are also used in clinics for professional-level treatments .
What are the main types of epilators?
When we talk about it, we can think of two main methods. One is the type we usually use at home. The other is a method that is done professionally and gives permanent results.
Tweezer Epilators for Home Use
This is the most popular type that most people know. This device has a rotating head. This head has many small tweezers attached to it. When you place it on the skin and turn it on, these tweezers rotate rapidly, grabbing the hair closest to the skin and pulling it out first. The first few times you use it, it may feel a little painful , but with continued use, your skin will get used to it, and the pain will decrease significantly.
Professional Treatment: Electrolysis
This is not something you can do at home. Electrolysis is a treatment performed by a trained professional to permanently remove hair. These are sometimes called `Medical Electrolysis Devices`.
In this, a very fine needle-like device is inserted through the skin to the hair follicle, and a shortwave radio frequency is sent through it to destroy the hair follicle. Since the hair follicle itself is destroyed, no hair will grow back from that area. This means that this is a method that gives permanent results .
However, this is a little riskier than other methods. It also cannot be done at home. For this, you need to see a qualified professional (trained electrologist) and undergo several treatment sessions. Sometimes, you may need to apply a topical anesthetic to the skin to reduce pain.
What is the difference between epilating and waxing?
Although both methods remove hair first, there are some differences between them. Let's look at this table to understand it clearly.
| The point | Epilating (at-home type) | Waxing |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | An electric device (epilator) is needed. | Wax, cloth strips, or wax strips are required. |
| Hair length | Even very short hairs can be removed. | The hair should be about 1/4 - 3/4 inch long. If it is too long, you may need to trim it a little to reduce the pain. |
| Results duration | 3-4 weeks or more. | Between 3-6 weeks (varies from person to person). |
| Permanence | Not sure. But the professional method called Electrolysis is sure. | Not sure. |
| Effect on the skin | It doesn't damage the surface of the skin, it just pulls out the hair. | Along with the hair, a layer of dead skin cells can also be removed. |
Take care of these things before waxing
If you're thinking about waxing, it's very important to keep these things in mind.
- Hair Length: As mentioned above, the hair should be at least 1/4 inch long. Only then will the wax be able to grip properly.
- Retinoid -containing creams: If you are using a prescription skin cream containing `Retinoid` or `Retinol`, stop using it at least two days before waxing. Otherwise, the cream may come off with the hair during waxing.
- Skin cleansing: Wash the area to be waxed thoroughly to remove dirt, sweat, and makeup. Then let the skin dry thoroughly. Wax does not stick to wet skin.
What are the risks and side effects of these methods?
As with any cosmetic procedure, there are some minor risks.
Common Risks of Waxing and Epilating (At Home)
- Pain : Pain is common as the hair falls out initially.
- Skin redness and swelling: The skin may become red and blister-like for a few hours after treatment.
- Ingrown hairs: Sometimes new hairs can grow into the skin instead of reaching the surface.
Cases requiring special attention
- Very sensitive skin or sunburned skin: Never wax in these areas.
- Isotretinoin medication: If you have used the acne medication `Isotretinoin` (often prescribed by a doctor) within the past 6 months, avoid waxing completely.
- Risks of Electrolysis: Since this is a professional treatment, there are some risks involved if it is performed by an unqualified person . These include:
- Skin redness, swelling, or inflammation
- Skin pain
- Scarring, especially in those with a history of keloid scars
- Skin discoloration
- Infectious conditions
Therefore, if you are considering a permanent treatment like `Electrolysis`, make sure to choose a registered, qualified, and experienced professional for it. If necessary, also seek advice from your family doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Because a home epilator removes hair first, the results last longer than shaving.
- Electrolysis is a professional treatment that permanently removes hair, but it should only be performed by a qualified professional.
- Before epilating or waxing, cleanse and exfoliate your skin thoroughly. This can reduce pain and side effects.
- If you have a skin condition, or are using medications/creams like `Isotretinoin` or `Retinoid`, be sure to talk to your doctor before using this type of hair removal method.
- If you develop a severe skin infection or persistent scars after hair removal, seek medical advice immediately.
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