EXCESS HAIR IN WOMEN
Excess hair can be unattractive and it is
certainly understandable to want to be rid of it. But consider trying bleach
first, using ordinary peroxide to which a drop of ammonia has been added. Avoid
bleaches containing sodium perborate. If you still find that the excess hair
must be removed, the simplest method is to shave. An electric razor-and there
are some, of course, made especially for women-will not toughen the skin. And
despite what you may have heard, shaving does not encourage growth of hair or
make the hair coarse.
It is easier and better to shave than to
rub hair off with an abrasive such as pumice, and far less painful than pulling
out many hairs with tweezers. Be careful about use of a chemical depilatory on
the face. Waxes, though painful, are safer. If you do use a chemical depilatory
on the body, be careful not to get it in the eyes; and always try it on a small
spot of skin to make certain that it is not irritating for you. Don't use a
chemical depilatory more often than once every two weeks, and discontinue
promptly if the skin itches or becomes inflamed.
No depilatory removes hair permanently. The
only permanent hair removal method is electrolysis, which involves insertion of
a tiny needle The Skin, Hair, and Nails / 167 into the hair follicle and
passing an electric current through the needle to destroy the root. This is a
tedious, difficult method and is useful only for removal of hair from small
areas. Some women have had hair successfully removed this way from upper lip or
cheek. Keep away from quacks or people who advertise miraculous methods of hair
removal. Your physician can help you find an expert who can do the work well
and safely, avoiding scarring and pitting.
