Unwanted hair growth on the face, arms, legs, underarms, and bikini lines can be obnoxious and time-consuming to fix. Of course, body hair isn’t a bad thing — but we also think it should be easy to get rid of the hair you’re not vibing with.
There are plenty of hair removal methods, including permanent hair removals like electrolysis and laser hair removal, that provide long-lasting results.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says that electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal method. But laser hair removal and IPL also offer very close-to-permanent results (they just need an occasional touch-up).
IPL (intense pulsed light technology) is the only method of these you can do at home. Plus, it’s super cost effective — the best IPL device in the world only costs $189, as opposed to electrolysis or laser at a $1,000+ price tag.
Whether it’s an aesthetics, hygiene, culture, religion, medical, or sports thing, we’re here to help you know how to take care of your unwanted hair.
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How fast does body hair grow?
Genetics, hormones, health, and age can influence the speed of your hair growth. On average, body hair grows approximately 0.5 inches (1.25 cm) every month. Each hair follicle has a growth phase, followed by a resting phase, so new hair grows while other hair isn’t.
Permanent Hair Removal Options
1. Electrolysis
- Cost: $30-$100 per session (up to $3,000 total)
- Number of sessions required: 15-30 (spaced a few weeks apart)
- Follow-up treatments: None
- Expected pain level: Moderate to high
Electrolysis is the only method for permanent body hair removal that needs no follow-up treatments. It works by zapping unwanted hair. A tiny needle is inserted into each hair follicle and a small electric current destroys it, stopping new hair growth in its tracks.
The best part? Electrolysis works on all hair and skin types, making it an excellent solution for anyone looking to wave goodbye to their unwanted body hair. While it's technically the only "permanent" solution, keep in mind that it can be expensive, painful, and time-consuming.
During your initial consultation, a licensed electrologist will examine your skin and hair, chat about your treatment goals, and determine the best plan for you.
The procedure feels like a slight pinch or warm sensation, but don't worry – you can adjust the intensity to your comfort level. Just remember, electrolysis is more painful than laser hair removal and significantly more painful than IPL.
2. IPL (At-Home Laser)
- Cost: $189-$269 (one-time device purchase)
- Number of sessions required: 16 (twice a week for 8 weeks)
- Follow-up treatments: Once every 3-12 months
- Expected pain level: Negligible
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is an at-home hair removal method that uses broad-spectrum light to target and damage hair follicles. It’s very similar to laser hair removal, but at home.
IPL devices can provide (almost) permanent hair removal results. Did we mention it’s less than 1/10th the cost of professional laser treatment?
IPL works thanks to a pigment in hair called melanin: Much like a dark sheet on a hot day, the melanin helps the hair absorb the light from the flashes, stimulating it to go into its resting phase. This leaves you with smooth, hair-free skin.
We created the Flasher 2.0 for at home hair removal. Use the flasher for hair removal, The Revealer for exfoliation, and The Reviver for after-IPL soothing. It’s like going to the spa, but you don’t need to leave your house!
The Flasher™ 2.0
$169.00
Safely remove unwanted hair with The Flasher 2.0 by Nood. Works everywhere that hair grows, including bikini, Brazilian, underarms, legs, and face. Start seeing results in 2-3 weeks and permanent hair removal in 6-8 weeks. … read more |
The Revealer
$39.00 The Revealer Daily Exfoliating Cleanser with resveratrol, papaya enzymes, biodegradable exfoliating beads, and botanical extracts is a deep cleansing and skin resurfacing treatment packed with powerful antioxidants for brighter, smoother, and softer skin. Reduce irritation and ingrown hairs while revealing… read more |
The Reviver
$39.00 The reviver contains our custom formulation of aloe vera, lavender, azulene, and green tea extract to soothe and protect your skin after your IPL treatment. Aloe and Azulene soothe and reduce irritation due from sunburn, chemical peels and IPL treatments. Lavender essential oils… read more |
3. Laser Hair Removal
- Cost: $100-$800 per session (depending on where you want body hair removed)
- Number of sessions required: 4-6
- Follow-up treatments: Every 6-12 months
- Expected pain level: Moderate
Laser hair removal is a popular method for hair removal treatments all over the body. Concentrated light zaps hairs away slowing down growth like a champ. While it's not entirely permanent, laser hair removal can drastically cut down on hair growth, making it your go-to option for long-lasting results.
Before diving in, chat with a board-certified dermatologist or licensed laser technician. They'll evaluate your skin tone, hair type, and growth pattern to see if you're a good fit. Keep in mind that laser hair removal works best for those with dark hair and lighter skin tones, since the laser zeroes in on differences between skin and hair pigments.
During the procedure, the technician will use a handheld laser device to send light pulses to the target area. You might feel a slight snapping sensation, like a rubber band against your skin.
The treatment typically involves multiple sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart, depending on the area and your hair growth cycle.
Though generally safe, laser hair removal can cause temporary redness, swelling, and skin irritation. Make sure to follow your dermatologist's or technician's post-treatment care tips, like avoiding sun exposure and using SPF moisturizer, to minimize any risks.
Laser hair removal can be pricier than other methods, but many people find the long-lasting results and reduced hair growth totally worth it. You’ll just need a little maintenance to keep those silky smooth results.
4. Prescription Creams
- Cost: $177-$225 per tube (without insurance)
- Number of treatments required: Twice daily (4-8 weeks for results)
- Follow-up treatments: Daily (if you stop using it, your hair will go back to how it was before)
- Expected pain level: Negligible to mild
Vaniqa (eflornithine) is a minimally invasive, FDA-approved prescription hair removal cream designed for women dealing with unwanted body hair. It slows down hair growth at the follicle level and works on various skin types, but doesn't remove existing hair. Consistent use can help reduce the appearance of body hair over time.
A dermatologist or healthcare professional will need to give you a prescription. Apply the cream twice a day to the affected area for 4-8 weeks to see noticeable results. Don’t forget, consistency (and patience) is key.
Vaniqa is generally well-tolerated, but some users might experience mild skin irritation, redness, or temporary burning sensations. If you encounter severe or long-lasting side effects, consult your prescriber.
At-Home Hair Removal
Okay, we’ll be honest with you: There’s no such thing as a “truly permanent” at-home hair removal method. IPL is the closest thing, and you’ll still need the occasional touch-up. The good news is that you have several options that can help reduce hair growth temporarily. Just plan more time for maintenance.
On the other hand, these methods are generally more affordable and accessible than pro treatments!
1. Waxing
- Cost: $10-$15 (depending on what kit you buy)
- Treatment frequency: Every 3-5 weeks
- Expected pain level: Moderate to High
At home waxing is an easy solution for unwanted hair, especially because it’s so cost-efficient compared to other treatments. Waxing will cover a much larger area of hair and it’s generally low maintenance.
When you wax the same area over and over again, the hair follicles may eventually become damaged to the point that hair growth stops. However, most people find that waxing even small areas (like the eyebrows or upper lip) for years doesn’t result in a total loss of hair in those spots.
The only downside of at home waxing is it’s pretty painful, it can be time-consuming, and it may take several months or years to see permanent results.
2. Sugaring
- Cost: $5-$30 (it’s cheaper if you DIY your sugaring kit)
- Treatment frequency: Every 3-5 weeks
- Expected pain level: Low to Moderate
During sugaring hair removal, a sticky golden sugaring paste (made up of only 3 ingredients: lemon juice, sugar, and water) is molded onto the area of skin you'd like to be hair-free, then gently removed with a fast flicking technique.
Sugaring is similar to waxing, but sugaring is a lot less painful. Although everyone has their preference, most people say they prefer sugaring over waxing. It’s completely safe to do as an at home treatment and (the best part) sugaring ingredients are all things found in your kitchen.
Results for permanent hair removal are around the same length as with waxing and also produce the same outcome. Waxing kills hair follicles, and so does sugaring. So if you want a less painful, more cost effective hair removal method, sugaring is the winner.
3. Depilatory Creams
- Cost: $5-$15
- Treatment Frequency: Every few days
- Expected pain level: Negligible
Depilatory creams progressively break down hair with a strong alkaline until it turns into a jelly-like texture that you can rub off.. As the solution is cleared away, the hair should be effortlessly eliminated along with it.
Given that this method doesn't target the hair follicle itself (only removing the hair it can get to), those with dark, coarse hair may still observe a shadow beneath the skin. The results are similar to shaving and will give you that silky smooth look for several days.
Creams do not prevent regrowth for long periods of time, so you will need to be consistent at keeping up with treatments. If you have sensitive skin, creams can sometimes cause redness or blotchiness on certain areas.
What option is right for you?
Deciding on the ideal hair removal method depends on factors like the area of the body, type of hair, and individual preferences.
Try IPL if...
- There is significant contrast between your skin and hair color
- You don't mind an occasional touch-up
- You have a low pain tolerance
- You don't have a large budget to devote to permanent hair removal
- You don't mind a few extra weeks of treatment compared to traditional laser (8-12 vs. 6)
Try laser hair removal if...
- There is significant contrast between your skin and hair color
- You don't mind an occasional touch-up
- You have a significant budget to devote to permanent body hair removal
Try electrolysis if...
- You have very dark hair
- You have very light hair (light blonde, red, or grey/white)
- Your skin and hair colors are very similar
- You have a significant budget to devote to permanent body hair removal
Try prescription creams if…
- You can be consistent with use
- Don’t mind waiting a while for results
- Want to only reduce the amount of hair you have, but not completely remove it
Try waxing if…
- You don’t mind a more time consuming method
- You’re on a tight budget
- You’d rather not leave your house to get your hair removed
- You have a higher than average pain tolerance
Try sugaring if…
- You love to DIY things (especially skin care treatments)
- You have a small budget
- Your skin is sensitive
- You don’t mind waiting a while to see results
Try depilatory creams if…
- You don’t mind upkeep every few days
- You like a pain free option
- You’re on a tight budget
- You have lighter hair
Hair removal creams and epilators offer at-home options for temporary results. Exfoliating and moisturizing can help reduce dry skin and ingrown hairs. If excessive hair growth is due to conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) or hirsutism, consult a dermatologist for long-term hair removal methods.
Consider factors like treatment area size, darker skin tones, and sensitivity when choosing a hair removal method. Always follow a certified dermatologist's advice for effective and safe hair removal.
Ready to say goodbye to unwanted body hair forever?
If you read that list and didn’t immediately want the best IPL device on the market… we’re not sure what to tell you.IPL (also called at-home laser hair removal) is, by far, the most cost-effective, pain-free way to permanently remove facial hair. And while you’re at it, why not clear up those unmentionable areas, legs, and armpits?!
