Hair removal has been around for hundreds of years, from the Indians who plucked stray hairs out with clamshells, to the ancient Romans and Egyptians who rubbed pumice stones on their skin to rid it of hair. Thankfully, the more modern forms of hair removal require a much lower pain tolerance, and have the benefit of taking much less time to achieve the desired effect. There are many forms of hair removal, ranging from the very expensive to the cheaper do-it-yourself methods. Before removing any hair however it helps to know the different types of hair that grow on our bodies. The first type to know about is vellus hair. The vellus hairs grow on the chest and back, and face, and are usually very short and fine. The second hair type is terminal hair. This type of hair is dark and coarser, and grows in the armpits and pubic regions, and in men, also on the legs and chest. There are forms of hair removal for the two different types of hair that make the removal go more smoothly.
     The first thing to consider when choosing a form of hair removal is to decide how much money you want to spend. Laser hair removal is a permanent option, but requires numerous appointments, and can be very expensive.  Threading occurs when a fine cotton thread is run over the skin, and pulls the hair out by the root. This procedure can cost anywhere between 12 and 50 dollars, and if done improperly can cause the re-growth of hair to occur sooner than it should. Waxing can be performed almost anywhere on the body, and is a semi-permanent form of hair removal. Depending on the body part you are having waxed, the cost can range from $15-$90, with the brow and underarm area being on the lower end of the scale, and the back and Brazilian wax being on the higher end. Two methods that can be done safely and easily at home are shaving and the use of depilatories. To shave, all one needs is a good razor and quality shaving cream. This form of hair removal can be accomplished in a sort amount of time either in the shower or bath. A depilatory is a chemical that is designed to dissolve hair so that it can be easily wiped away. Depilatories come in different forms, such as gel, aerosol, cream, or lotion. It can be applied easily, and after sitting on the skin for a few minutes, the hair is easily removed with a damp cloth. Tweezing involves the pulling out of hairs with a pair of tweezers, and is commonly reserved of the brow and chin area.
     Hair removal is a service that is offered at almost any full service salon. The prices will differ from shop to shop, and even from coast to coast. Before committing to any salon, it is wise to research the salon and the technicians they employ, to ensure that they are properly licensed and qualified to perform hair removal.