CIGNA members: Please note that you may receive a letter in the mail stating that The Dermatology Center of Indiana is no longer in your network. This communication from CIGNA is incorrect and we would like to reassure you that we are still in network with CIGNA. We look forward to continuing to service you and your family for all your dermatology needs.

Hair Removal Options

There are a variety of methods to remove hair.  Some options are fairly easy, while others are a little more involved. 

  • Shaving:   Shaving of your face, legs and arms is effective in removing the hair at the skin level, but we all know that this hair grows back.  Men often have a 5 o’clock shadow.  Some rock it, while others not so much. 
  • Plucking:  This is a great option if you only have a few stray hairs you need to get rid of.  It lasts longer than shaving as you are pulling the hair completely out of the skin.  Investing in a good pair of tweezers is certainly worth it.  Having a secure hold onto the hair you are trying to remove will save you from trying to pull the hair out over and over.  Pulling the hair in the direction that it is growing will also help you to only have “one pull.”
  • Waxing: Another familiar method for hair removal.  Hot wax is applied to the area you are removing the hair from on your skin.  A soft cotton material is then applied, and the area is rubbed so that the wax dries to the cloth and the hair.  With a quick, hard pull, the cloth and hairs are pulled away from the skin.  Often there will still be a few strands of hair that needs to be removed with tweezers.  The skin can have a reddish/pink tint where the wax was applied; however, it clears up a short time later.
  • Lasering: Laser hair removal works to eliminate the hair follicle which prevents the hair from growing back.  While it might seem like it costs significantly more as compared to shaving or plucking, there is an added bonus because you will have a lifetime of results.  No more shaving.  No more plucking.  No more waxing.  This is a great alternative with lasting results!
  • Depilatory Creams: Depilatory creams are applied the area you want to remove hair from.  Follow directions on the packaging.  There is usually a period of time the product has to set on the area while the hair is dissolved away.  Like waxing and plucking, it removes the entire hair.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussion about medical, cosmetic, mohs, and surgical dermatology. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed dermatologist or other health care worker.