By Viktoria
Updated: May 22, 2024
6 minutes
Yes, women are known to be confused about every decision they make in life. I’d call that confusion “taking time” to make the best choice out of all options available so that they do not regret it later.
When it comes to physical grooming, facial hair removal is one of the difficult choices to make. Although hairless makes an essential part of your appearance and confidence, it comes up with a myriad of side effects that you want to avoid.
So, some women choose to go through the pain as “beauty really is pain” while others cannot compromise their peace for hair-free skin. If you are also one of the women finding it difficult to choose between the two, let us help you determine if facial hair removal is good or bad for the face.
Table of Contents:
- Part 1: What is Facial Hair Removal?
- Part 2: Pros of Facial Hair Removal
- Part 3: Cons of Facial Hair Removal
- Part 4: Methods of Facial Hair Removal
What is Facial Hair Removal?
Just as the name implies, facial hair removal means the removal of hair from the face using countless methods of hair removal. Some examples of hair removal methods include,
- Methods that trim the hair: Shaving, electric razors, and depilatory creams trim hair at the surface of the skin.
- Methods that remove hair from the roots: Waxing, hair removal springs, sugaring, threading, and tweezing extract the hair out of the roots with force.
- Methods that kill the hair follicles: IPL hair removal devices, in-salon laser, and electrolysis burn the hair follicles using electric or light energy.
Pros of Facial Hair Removal
While the pros and cons of different facial hair removal methods vary, let us discuss the advantages of facial hair removal in general.
Enhanced Self-Esteem
We all agree on the fact that facial hair makes a great impact on your self-confidence, right? Many women feel down when they see hair growing on the face. Even one strand of facial hair can become a flaw in their beautiful face.
Thus, hairless facial skin helps in boosting self-esteem. Furthermore, you are ever ready to go out or even bare face when there is no hair on your face.
Better Application of Makeup
No matter how seamless your technique is, facial hair makes the makeup look patchy. Also, makeup accentuates the appearance of facial hair, especially if your hair is thick.
Therefore, facial hair removal can make the application of makeup smoother and more appealing.
Glowing and Smooth Skin
Many facial hair removal methods do not only remove the hair but also exfoliate the top layer of dead skin cells. This allows the skin to get rid of impurities and excess oils as well.
Consequently, the texture of your skin improves and it glows naturally.
Bright Complexion
The color of facial hair varies from blonde to jet black. While it is rarely noticeable in white women with blonde hair, dark hair is clearly visible on any skin tone.
This dark hair also makes the complexion appear dull. Therefore, removing facial hair instantly brightens up the complexion. This is also why people consider bleaching as a way to lighten their skin tones.
Cons of Facial Hair Removal
These also comprise the reasons why women choose to live with facial hair intact even though it impacts their appearance and confidence.
Hair Regrowth
Facial hair removal is not something you will be done with in one go. It is not something you can get rid of after a few sessions. Rather, facial hair removal goes on for life.
Although the timeline of effects of different facial hair removal methods is different, it is important to remember that hair is bound to come back and add to your misery.
Compromised Barrier of the Skin
There are many methods of facial hair removal that involve the use of harsh chemicals or devices. Furthermore, performing these methods again and again can make the barrier of the skin compromise, especially in women with sensitive skin.
So, skin with facial hair is better than skin with acne and a compromised skin barrier, right?
Repetitive Expenses
As we already know facial hair removal is a repetitive process, and so is its recurring cost. No matter which hair removal method you choose, you have to pay again and again for it.
Additionally, the cost increases many times if you are getting it from a professional salon or clinic.
Other Skin Concerns
In addition to the compromised skin barrier, facial hair removal comes with pain and a number of other skin concerns including,
- Bumps on the skin
- Ingrown hair
- Folliculitis
- Hyperpigmentation
- Skin irritation
Methods of Facial Hair Removal
In addition to facial hair removal in general, let us talk about the drawbacks and benefits of individual hair removal methods to help you make a thoughtful decision.
1. Shaving
Shaving makes the 1st choice of facial hair removal for many women, especially if they only have peach fuzz. Although ergonomic facial razors are used to remove unwanted hair, electric razors are available as well.
Additionally, it is essential to prepare your skin well and use a pre-shave treatment for a comfortable shaving experience.
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2. Waxing/Sugaring
Waxing or sugaring pulls the facial hair out of the skin. There are several types of facial waxes including pre-made strips, facial wax rollers, soft wax with strips, and hard wax.
Sugaring is a natural alternative to waxing which can be done with or without strips.
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3. Tweezing/Threading
When it comes to precise facial hair removal, tweezing or threading is the way to go. Tweezing allows you to remove unwanted hair strands individually and thus, you can choose the exact manner to remove hair.
Additionally, threading reduces the risk of accidental cuts on the eyebrows and allows you to get a symmetrical shape.
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4. Facial Hair Removal Creams
Although it is not recommended to use hair removal creams on the face, there are some specific formulations that are gentle enough for facial hair removal.
Thus, ensure that you use a dermatologist-approved depilatory cream for facial hair removal.
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5. IPL Hair Removal
If you are looking for a hair removal method that is neither temporary nor entirely painful, IPL hair removal is worth consideration. IPL utilizes light energy to kill the hair follicles.
The intensity and treatment modes of reputable IPL devices like Ulike Air 10 IPL Laser Hair Removal Handset can be adjusted as well. Additionally, you can use a single device on your full body.
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6. Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is similar to IPL, but more intense and can only be done in a professional setup. While traditional laser hair removal was only compatible with light skin and dark hair, the current technology of laser works for colored hair as well.
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7. Electrolysis
Electrolysis is an FDA-approved technology that works to eliminate the hair from the roots with the help of electrical energy. It might seem scary, but the current used in electrolysis is compatible with the body.
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Conclusion
It is not facial hair removal which is bad, but the hair removal methods. Every method of hair removal comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks that we discussed earlier in this article.
Some of the hair removal methods have benefits that will overshadow their side effects. On the other hand, it becomes nearly impossible to compromise on the others. Therefore, the decision of which method suits you is more of your own choice.
Not to mention, you can simply stop removing facial hair altogether and become comfortable in your skin as it is.
