There are many differences between humans and other mammals. However, one characteristic we do share with our furry cousins is hair[1]. Although its vibrancy, density, and distribution varies from person to person (and animal to animal), the fact remains that at some point in our lives, most will start developing body hair.
Some embrace their coats, some don’t. Most people sooner or later will ponder what to do with their hair. Here we will be looking at how hair density, distribution, and vibrancy differs across the body, why it occurs, and what to do if you want to get rid of excess hair.
What is hair made of and how does it initially appear?
Skin is covered by follicles, which produce protein filaments that we refer to as hair[2]. Regardless of a person's sex, from an early age most people are coated in vellus hair, which is fine and light in color. Androgenic hair, generally referred to as body hair, normally develops during puberty and is the result of vellus hair transforming into terminal hair (thicker, darker hair)[3].
The amount of androgens (hormones) someone has can dictate how much terminal hair is produced. This is why men tend to sport more body hair than women[4]. Human hair, regardless of where on the body it is, adheres to a growth cycle consisting of three stages: anagen (growth stage), catagen (transitional stage) and telogen (growth ceases and hair falls out)[5].
Head hair
The duration of the three stages, along with the number and size of hair follicles you possess, determine the manner (density and vibrancy) in which hair grows. In regards to head hair, for example, the anagen phase lasts around two-to-seven years. This time period varies from person to person and can be affected by different factors, such as genetics, hormones, and even stress. The anagen phase tends to be far longer in head hair than body hair, which is why (thankfully!) the hair on our bodies is usually a lot shorter than the hair on our heads.[6]
Body hair
The anagen phase for body hair normally lasts around 30-to-45 days[7], a considerably shorter period of time than head hair. The reason the anagen phase is shorter is mainly due to hair having different functions. Eyebrows, for example, keep sweat from entering the eye and therefore need to be a certain length and density.[8]
How to get rid of excess hair
Now that we’ve gone through the science, let’s see how unwanted hair can be removed, if needed. Different hair removal techniques can be effective for various types of body hair.
Legs
Legs are sometimes the first body parts to consider when thinking about hair removal, especially when the weather gets warm. As this can be quite a large area to tackle, Veet® Botanic Inspirations® In-Shower Hair Removal Cream Sensitive Formula can be a good solution here. The cream can be applied easily in the shower and works in as few as five minutes. It leaves skin feeling smooth for longer than shaving, meaning less time spent getting rid of those unwanted hairs and more time to start digging through those sun dresses. Always be sure to read the instructions before applying cream.
Bikini line
Hair growth along the bikini line can be frustrating, particularly during those hot summer months. Not everyone wants hair sprouting out when they’re looking glamorous on the beach. As this area tends to be delicate, intense pulsed light (IPL) could be a less painful, long-term solution compared to waxing. Rather than making constant trips to the salon, Veet® Infini’Silk® PRO Permanent Hair Reduction could be a more affordable and convenient form of hair removal, all in the comfort and privacy of your own home. In as few as 10 sessions, the safe-to-use device works by using short pulses of light to destroy hair follicles in the desired area. Remember to follow instructions for best results.
Armpits
Armpit hair has recently become a heated topic of fashion debate. Not only has the question whether to remove it or not been in the spotlight, new styles and colors have even been deliberated. Luckily, for those who love having smooth underarms, Veet® Botanic Inspirations® Warm Sugar Wax could be the solution. The kit is easy to use, ensures the wax is evenly spread and, ultimately, provides smoothness. It can be used on all skin types and only takes 20-to-30 minutes to prepare. Try Veet® Botanic Inspirations® Wax Strip Kit Hair Remover, Bikini, Underarms & Face. The wax is made with the same ingredients as salon wax and removes short hair from the root, leaving you feeling smooth.
The right hair-removal method for you may vary when it comes to different areas of body hair. Luckily there are more options available to you every day. When in doubt, always remember to check the Veet packaging to learn which products will be safe for which zone. No need for monthly salon trips, Veet gives you salon-like results from the comfort of your own home.
[1] http://hairfoundation.org/hair-library/article-hair-science.htm
[2] http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2265.1994.tb02483.x/epdf
[3] http://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/parts/human-body-hair.htm
[4] http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2013/02/why-testosterone-effects-body-hair-growth/
[5] http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2012/05/why-does-hair-only-grow-to-a-certain-length/
[6] http://www.wired.com/2015/04/hair-only-in-some-places/
[7] http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2012/05/why-does-hair-only-grow-to-a-certain-length/
