"Permanent" Methods

If you're seeking permanent hair removal, you have several imperfect options. A number of methods have been developed that use chemicals, energy of varying types, or a combination to target the areas that regulate hair growth. Permanently destroying these areas while sparing surrounding tissue is a difficult challenge. I recommend relying on a body of published, peer-reviewed scientific evidence to ensure the effectiveness of a method.

Permanent hair removal for most

Electrolysis

Permanent hair reduction for some

Laser
Flashlamp

Lasting hair inhibition for many (requires continuous use)

Home-use laser
Prescription oral medications
Prescription topical preparation (Vaniqa)

Restricted methods

X-ray (banned in the United States)
Photodynamic therapy (experimental)

Doubtful methods

Electric tweezers
"Transdermal electrolysis"
"Transcutaneous hair removal"
Photoepilators
Microwaves
Foods and Dietary supplements
Nonprescription topical preparations (aka "hair inhibitors," "hair retardants," or "hair growth inhibitors")

How to choose

Choosing a method
Choosing a practitioner:

Laser/light
Electrologist

Hair removal information: recommended and non-recommended