Occasionally excessive hair can be the result of a physical ailment, a glandular disturbance resulting in an imbalance of male and female sex hormones. It could even develop as a side effect of steroid creams or hormone pills prescribed to treat other conditions. But these disorders are infrequent causes of excess hair. If you do not have a family tendency toward superfluous hair and a relatively sudden increase in undesirable growth appears, consult your doctor.

WAXING
Waxing is one of the oldest methods of temporary hair removal but one of the least popular. It is most often used for the removal of hair from the upper lip or chin. Because hairs are plucked beneath the surface and just above the root, the results of waxing are reasonably long lasting. Usually it takes several weeks for new growth to become evident.

DEPILATORIES
Chemical depilatories are used primarily for arm and leg hairs. They should not be used on the face unless specifically stated on the product's label. And they should never be used if there are breaks on the skin.

It is claimed that the results of depilatories last longer than those of shaving because the hair is removed closer to the skin surface, but the difference is probably slight. Chemical depilatories are usually in cream form, and their effectiveness varies according to the type of hair growth. A thin hair is destroyed in shorter time than a thick hair. They may not be effective on some people and on some parts of the body, without remaining on the skin for a long time - and irritation follows. The first time you use a depilatory, try it on a small area to see if the product causes a skin reaction. If this happens, discontinue using the product.

SHAVING
Shaving your legs can be done by electric razor or by hand. The secret is to use a sharp blade every time. There are throwaway, curved razors priced from a couple of dollars, that give the equivalent of two or three dozen smooth shaves. Be sure your skin is wet. Wet hair is easier to shave because it is soft and pliable. Lathering with either soap and water or shaving cream will help. Use lashings of body oil or moisturizer on your legs after shaving because shaving can make your skin very dry.

ELECTROLYSIS
The safe way to remove hair permanently is by destroying the hair root with an electric current. This method - electrolysis - destroys the hair root at the bottom of the follicle and loosens the hair, which is then removed from the follicle with tweezers.

LASERS
The aestheticians cold beam lasers and the hot beam deode or yag lasers help in reduction and retardation. The treatment should be done by a qualified therapist.