Removing unwanted hair from various parts of the body is an age old task that many people would rather do without, but excess hair can become unsightly. At one time, the only option that women had for removing hair was shaving it off. This resulted in chafing and razor burn, which was very uncomfortable. Today, there are a myriad of options to get rid of unwanted hair on the body.

These do it yourself options can be easy, but some may find that they involve tedious work:

1. Waxing home kits
There are certain areas on the body that may be hard to reach with the classic razor for removing hair. Waxing removes the hair at the follicle, and keeps the growth of new hair to a minimum. It also lasts longer so that removing hair is not done so often. Waxing also keeps the skin feeling and looking softer because it also removes dead skin cells. Because the hair is removed at the follicle, new hair may grow back finer than before. Small sculpted wax strips that are specifically designed for waxing the eyebrows are recommended for removing hair on the brows.

2. Disposable razors
Razors are the classic method of removing hair. Razors have been known to leave cuts and nicks when used by even the steadiest of hands. Depending on the area of hair removal, the chafing and razor burn can be a form of total embarrassment. Using the correct razor for specific areas is necessary. This is the most popular method of removing hair at home, but it is recommended that the proper products be used to prepare the skin to help avoid ingrown hairs.

3. Sugaring
This method of hair removal is comparable to waxing in that it also removes the entire hair follicle. Sugaring is using a paste at room temperature that is applied in the direction of the hair growth. This paste does not stick to the skin like waxing which makes it less painful to remove than with waxing. The sugaring products are very cost effective.

4. Depilatory creams
Unlike waxing and sugaring, depilatory creams use chemicals to remove unwanted hair from the body. There is no mechanism or plucking required. The cream simply dissolves hair at the surface of the skin. A depilatory cream will provide very silky skin, but it is recommended that a patch test be done before applying it to a sensitive area in the case of skin sensitivity to the product. Nair with cocoa butter is one of the most popular creams for hair removal.

5. Laser hair removal
There is now a laser product that can be used at home. It may sting a little, but it is a highly effective method to use for at home hair removal. This is a close to permanent hair removal treatment, second to the only true permanent hair removal method which is electrolysis. This is not an at home treatment.

Women are not the only people who want to get rid of unwanted body hair. Some men are taking advantage of the many hair removal options for smoother, better looking skin. They are finding that using methods other than shaving can be more beneficial to their overall appearance.