Whether you’re interested in getting rid of hair on the back or eliminating excess hair on the legs and arms, there are several hair removal options to choose from. Simply shaving or waxing body hair can become a chore, but there are alternative solutions that help get rid of hair for the long-term.

eMedicine.com reports that the shaving and hair removal market in the United States increased by 14.5% between 1998 and 2003, and exceeded 2.1 billion dollars in sales in 2007. The numbers have steadily increased as more people look for permanent and semi-permanent solutions to get rid unwanted body hair, and pursue procedures that offer minimal side effects. If you’ve been looking for ways to get rid of unwanted body hair and improve your skin’s texture, consider some of these popular options:

Sugaring for Hair Removal

Sugaring has become increasingly popular in recent years as more people look for solutions that make the treatment area as smooth as possible. A warm sugar paste can be applied to the skin and then stripped off; this method of hair removal is fairly popular in Europe and the Middle East, and is beginning to appear in spas and salons in the United States.

Laser Hair Removal Procedures

Laser hair removal procedures offer a permanent solution for getting rid of unwanted hair, but a series of treatments is required to achieve optimal results. Laser hair removal procedures work by reducing the growth rate of hair so that it does not grow back.  After a series of treatments, the hair will become thinner, lighter and grow back slower than average. The goal is to permanently destroy the hair follicle, but since this procedure is fairly intensive, it does run the risk of side effects; common side effects include blistering, hyperpigmentation and scabbing.

Depilatory Creams

Depilatory creams work by dissolving the hair and reducing its growth rate over time. These creams can be used on hard-to-reach areas, but some people do report allergic reactions to different types of creams. Depilatory creams can be used on the upper lip, eyebrows and even underarm areas, but are also a quick and simple solution for larger areas such as the legs and arms.

Electrolysis for Hair Removal

Electrolysis continues to be a popular hair removal procedure for many people who don’t want to try laser hair removal, and works in a similar manner as the laser procedure. Small electrical currents are passed through the hairs to destroy the follicle and prevent future hair growth; most people need a series of treatments to see results, but this can be a slow and steady way to eliminate unwanted body hair.

Shaving

Shaving continues to be one of the most convenient and effective ways to get rid of unwanted body hair, but does have some disadvantages. Shaving a sensitive area of skin can lead to ingrown hairs, cuts and inflamed patches of skin that do not always heal rapidly. Still, shaving is a quick way to get rid of unwanted hair and for the short-term.

Learn more about hair removal options in our information guide, or consult with a hair removal specialist in your area to find out what your best hair removal treatment may be.