Waxing Hot or cold wax is applied to the skin and then quickly removed to pull hair out. The results can last a few weeks or longer, and it can be used on delicate areas, such as the skin above your upper lip or your bikini area.
But the removal of the wax can be painful and irritating, which could be problematic for some people with psoriasis. And if the wax is too hot, it can potentially burn your skin.
Depilatories This method involves applying a specially formulated cream, lotion, or gel that dissolves unwanted hair. Some people prefer this method because it’s easy and convenient: You simply put the product on the skin where you want to remove hair, wait a set amount of time, then rinse it off with water.
“Depilatories are irritating enough that they can cause problems,” warns Stone. “We don’t recommend them for people with psoriasis.”
One drawback is that laser hair removal can take six or more treatments to work, but it is permanent in most cases — except for women’s facial hair. Also, laser hair removal isn’t as effective on blonde, white, gray, or red hair, and you’ll need to keep the treatment area covered and avoid the sun until your skin heals completely.
Electrolysis In this procedure, electrical currents are sent through hair follicles to damage them and prevent hair from growing. It can take several sessions and is time-consuming, but you can achieve permanent hair removal. It can also work on people with light-colored hair.
As with laser hair removal, there are home kits, but the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) cautions that you’ll be in safer hands if a board-certified dermatologist or electrologist performs the procedure.
It’s also important to know the risks: Probes that are not sterilized can lead to skin or blood infections, and electrolysis performed by someone who isn’t properly trained can cause burns and scarring. Some people also report experiencing pain or discomfort during the procedure.
“I would only suggest it for very small areas like the upper lip or chin,” says George. “I think laser hair removal would be preferable for psoriasis patients since there is less manual disruption of the skin.”
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