The Hair Removal Dilemma For Redheads
In a bid to save our legs from being dry and sensitive (more than they are already, anyway), and to save ourselves time, a hair removal solution is what we’re all searching for, particularly in the summer time.
But for redheads, and for others with fair and blonde body hairs, our options are somewhat limited.
Does laser hair removal or IPL work for redheads?
No, sadly not, fair redhead. Laser hair removal works by specifically targeting and destroying only brown pigments at the base of the hair follicle, and thanks to redheads having such light-coloured body hair, this method is essentially ineffective.
The best candidates are those with pale complexions but dark hair strands. Even in the best cases, lasers may only remove up to 40% of hair, and the treatment is not permanent, so top-up appointments are required.
Does electrolysis work for redheads?
Yes, this method of hair removal works for natural gingers. Electrolysis works by destroying the centre of the hair strand using chemical or heat. Moving across the skin, a fine probe is inserted into the hair follicle and tweezed out one at a time.
In general, there are no side effects, but there may be some temporary reddening of the skin after treatment.
There are two major downfalls of electrolysis: the expense and the pain. An hour-long treatment costs around £100, with regular top-up treatments required which are then spaced out further and further apart. All in all, it’ll put you back at least £15,000 per area.
Also, if you think about it, if tweezers are repeatedly pulling out your hairs, that’s got to be pretty painful.
What is the hair removal solution for redheads?
It may not be the answer you were looking for, but good old-fashion shaving may be the better form of hair removal for redheads.
Waxing is recommended too, particularly if you’re wanting to rid your skin of hairs before a beach holiday. It’ll last longer than regular shaving, but bear in mind the pain is quite hefty (though I guess redheads have a higher pain threshold, so maybe it’s ideal for us).
By Emma