Summer time calls for short shorts, tank tops, and itty bitty bikinis. Short shorts, tank tops, and itty bitty bikinis call for rigorous hair removal. We’ve summarized and categorized the most popular forms of hair removal for your summer use.

Shaving

Shaving cuts the unwanted hair super close to the skin. It doesn’t disturb the follicle, so it’s a temporary solution, with hair beginning to grow back in as quickly as 24 hours. Another downside are razor bumps which are caused by hair growing under the skin.

Shaving with new razors each time, and exfoliating the area for three days after shaving is the best way to prevent these issues.

Waxing

Waxing rips hair from the root. Frequent waxing damages the follicle and hair will grow back slower and may even cease. Because the hair must be long enough for the wax to grab, waxing can only occur about every 4 weeks but results will last much longer than shaving. It’s important to use an antibacterial lotion after waxing to prevent infection.

Depilatories

Hair removal creams dissolve hair underneath the skin. Resulting stubble is smoother and less prickly and growth takes longer to appear than with shaving but still needs a weekly touch up. Many people find the smell of the creams offensive and some have reported skin irritation. Others find that hair is not always removed and sometimes needs to be shaved.

Buffers

Many online users say the sandpaper-like pads do a great job of not only removing hair but exfoliating their skin. Others say no matter how hard they buffed, hair was still present and their skin was left raw. The differences in results may be due to the coarseness and location of the hair.

Electrolysis

The only method of permanent hair removal, electrolysis involves a tiny needle that goes through the hair all the way to the follicle, killing it. Sessions can last 5-10 minutes but up to 25 sessions might be necessary to take care of every hair. Local anesthesia is usually administered.

Electrolysis is not recommended for women of color because hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) and scarring can lead to keloids can occur.