FOR any woman, having facial hair can be very embarrassing, painful and sometimes costly. This is because facial hair is not considered to be very feminine, and in some cases is a symptom of a medical condition which needs treatment. Women with this issue will experience hair growth on areas such as the upper lip, the chin, jaw, neck and cheeks. Some usually have thick sideburns and eyebrows which, if left untreated, can give a very manly appearance.

Says laser technician Suzy Walsh from Jencare Skin Farm, "You have a number of women who have facial hair so it is a very common situation here in Jamaica. This is because of their hormone level, and so they have to come and get these hairs removed."

The production of testosterone in some women coupled with a lack of oestrogen can result in hair growth on the face. Hormonal imbalance in women can be caused by pregnancy, the use of certain medications, or menopause, which affects the production of oestrogen. However, for most women, it is caused by their genes or a common hormonal problem known as hirsutism. Women who suffer from hirsutism have elevated blood levels of male androgen, which cause patterns of male hair growth in those of reproductive age. The good thing about facial hair is that it is removable by using one of a variety of methods being offered by most dermatologists and laser technicians in Jamaica. You can even remove the hair yourself if you have the resources or the time to do so. Here are some of the most common ways to remove embarrassing facial hair.

1. Laser treatment
Before, this treatment was only available to the rich and famous, but over time it has become a relatively cost-effective procedure that is being offered by most dermatologists. Laser treatment involves the burning away of the hair by destroying the hair follicles with heat. "The laser treatment is best because it lasts longer and it is more effective. After a period of time, the hair stops growing," says Walsh. Women who require treatment of this kind must have it done while the hair is still naturally dark. This is because the laser works by targeting the melanin in the hair that gives it its dark colour. Lasers can be done for about $5,000 upwards depending on the area of the skin where the hair is to be removed.

2. Electrolysis
This is a procedure that permanently removes the hair by destroying its growth centre with either chemical or heat. For the hair to be completely removed, a number of visits to the dermatologist is required to get the necessary treatment. Walsh says that the process usually takes three weeks. Where persons with grey hair might not be able to do the laser treatment, this is the best option. It can be done for $2,000 upwards depending on the area where the procedure is to be performed.

3. Waxing
Next to the laser treatment, waxing is the commonest form of removing facial hair. Walsh says she mostly uses the aloe vera wax and the T3 wax to effectively remove the hair. Waxing is a better option for persons who want to remove hair from the upper lip as opposed to the chin where hair growth is much thicker. The price for this procedure varies depending on the dermatologist and the area of the skin to be waxed.

4. Facial Hair removal cream
There are many facial creams available on the market, which can be purchased in most beauty and skin care stores. Most provide a quick, safe and effective way to get rid of facial hair as they dissolve the hair at its root. The effectiveness of these creams varies and so does the price, so you have to make sure you shop around for a most suitable choice. Walsh's personal favourite is the Vaniqua cream, which she says can be purchased for about US$80.

5. Shaving
While most men shave to remove facial hair, it is not advisable for women. Although it is fast and easy, it results in thicker and darker regrowth of hair. Although a dark stubble under the chin is attractive on a man, it is not very feminine.

6. Tweezing
This is a simple do-it-yourself method of removing hair. But it is probably not one of the best methods unless you enjoy pain. Not only is it one of the most painful procedures, it is time consuming, have to be done regularly and can damage the skin overtime. It is for this reason, that we suggest tweezing be done for areas where the minimal amount of facial hair needs to be removed such as the brow. The only good thing is that it is cost-effective and accessible as tweezers can be purchased at any beauty store.

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