The Hair
Before we compare the various methods of hair removal currently being used by today's woman, we would like to briefly describe the biological make-up of hair itself. A quick overview of just how and why hair grows should help you understand the pros and cons of the many methods of hair removal currently in use. Hair is made of keratin (hard protein) which is produced from a tube-like projection called the hair follicle. Hair follicles are found all over the body, with the exception of the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.The follicle is positioned at a slant growing out the skin. Some hair follicles are located deeper in the dermal layer than others that go deeper into the dermis. The bulb shape at the base of the follicle (the largest part) contains an egg-shaped cavity filled with loose tissue. This is the dermal papilla, and it contains the cells and blood vessels necessary for the growth and nourishment from the follicle. The sebaceous (oil) ducts attached to the follicle are responsible for lubrication of the skin and hair. Moderate amounts of secretion from the sebaceous glands are essential for healthy skin and hair. (Some people have over-active sebaceous ducts, causing conditions such as a very oily scalp.)
Blood vessels also aid in healthy skin and hair. You have heard the saying "you are what you eat," and it's very true! Vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients needed for strong, healthy hair are brought to the hair follicle by tiny blood vessels. In the same way, medications may have ingredients that will affect hair.
Superfluous hair is the very fine hair many women have on their upper lips and cheeks.
Waxing is the perfect solution for treatment of both problems. When the hair on the upper lip and cheeks is over-abundant, the resulting condition is called hyper-trichosis. There are many reasons for this "peach fuzz." One of the main causes in mature women is hormone disturbances due to stress or endocrine disorders. Medication to correct hormone imbalances will sometimes increase the growth of superfluous hair.
Temperature will also affect hair growth. Hair grows faster in warmer weather than it does in cold climates. There are two categories into which all methods of hair removal fall: Depilation and Epilation. The difference between them is a fundamental one. Depilation is the removal of hair at the skin's surface. Epilation is the removal of hair below the skin.