Body hair is there to help regulate your temperature, and trap some bacteria, dust, and dirt from clogging pores or possibly getting into your body. However, there are times when you may have excess body hair or regular amounts of hair that cause physical or emotional problems. In these situations shaving, depilatories, or waxing may not be enough to resolve the issues. Here are a few times to consider undergoing a permanent (or very long-lasting) form of hair removal such as laser or electrolysis.

Hormone Imbalance

As a female, a few stray hairs on your chin or upper lip are no cause for alarm. You can simply pluck them out as you find them while washing your face. However, if you seem to be growing a mustache or goatee, you may feel embarrassed or self-conscious. This may happen during pregnancy or menopause. It may also occur if you have a hormone imbalance. Your doctor may be able to prescribe medications to bring things back into balance but you may still have trouble with unwanted hair growth. The best way to solve this is with a more permanent hair removal treatment.

Sports

A hairy chest or back can prove problematic if you actively engage is some sports. The hairs may get tugged and pulled if you will be sliding on the ground or playing contact sports. In addition, excessive amounts of body hair may cause drag in a swimmer, slowing them enough to lose a race. A heavy coat of body hair can also reduce an athlete's ability to cool down by restricting the air flow across the skin that allows the sweat to evaporate and cool the body.

In-Grown Hairs

In-grown hairs can be painful. They can also lead to infections or scars. One of the most common causes of having a hair curl and grow under the skin instead of erupting through it is shaving too close. If you find you have an area that consistently has this problem, you may want to consider laser hair removal or electrolysis.

While both laser removal and electrolysis will require multiple visits to keep the hairs from growing back, the end results could be worth it. You will save time by not having to constantly shave or wax. It will also prevent any tiny nicks or cuts from the razors and any tears from the waxing. While nothing is truly permanent as far as hair removal,electrolysis will last longer than the laser treatments.