Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 12, 153--162 From flint razors to lasers: a timeline of hair removal methods Alexandra A Fernandez, BA, Katlein Franc ßa, MD, MSc, Anna H Chacon, MD, & Keyvan Nouri, MD Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA Summary Today, most do not go a day without practicing or hearing about new hair removal methods. However, little is discussed about the history of hair removal and the development of most hair removal methods since the period of cavemen. Avoiding decapitation and fitting in with society are two of many reasons for the development of this now normative practice. Knowledge of the hair growth cycle is vital in understanding the efficacy of various hair removal methods as well as the difference between epilation and depilation. While laser hair removal (LHR) is one of the most common cosmetic procedures practiced in the world, according to the FDA, the only current permanent form of hair removal is electrolysis. These two methods as well as various other ones are discussed in this article. Further developments are being made every day to better treat the removal of blonde and white hair as well as to diminish the pain of hair removal. With these developments, dermatologists will better understand the advancement of hair removal methods and the reasons why patients may seek treatment. Keywords: epilation, hair reduction, hair removal, hair removal laser, hair growth Introduction Hair is one of the defining characteristics of mammals that is found almost entirely over the body. Hair as an entity, is divided into two parts: 1) the hair follicle (found below the skin), which is responsible for the production and growth of the 2) hair shaft (what is seen above the skin). 1 Its distribution is highly attrib- uted to sex hormones and in both genders, it is only absent from the sides and surfaces of the hands, sides and plantar surfaces of the feet, lips, and urogenital openings. 2 While there are numerous functions of the hair follicle as well, for the purpose of this study, we shall only discuss the functions of the hair shaft. Some of the functions of the hair shaft include a means for social communication, protection against trauma and electromagnetic radiation, a sensory antennae to feel the environment, insulation against heat loss and gain, a mechanism of cleansing the skin’s surface and out- wards transport of signals (i.e., sebum, pheromones). 3 Depending on the location, shafts can vary in color, type, and size, which can be shaped by the individual to deliver a message to society. Many individuals dye their hair, others curl or straighten it, and more com- monly almost all practice some form of hair removal. Hair removal has been a fascination to humans since prehistoric times, which according to archaeologists, actually began with cavemen. The popularity of hair removal has and still is mostly influenced by society and what is deemed the social norm at that time. In a recent study, it was found that over 99% of partici- pants practiced some form of hair removal, with shav- ing and plucking being the most common removal methods. 9 In this article, we aim to educate the reader about the history of hair removal by discussing the different hair removal methods, what was used, and the various reasons why hair removal was performed Correspondence: Keyvan Nouri, MD, Mohs/Laser Unit, Sylvester Compre- hensive Cancer Center, 1475 NW 12th Avenue, Suite #2175, Miami, Florida 33136, USA. E-mail: knouri@med.miami.edu Accepted for publication October 17, 2012 © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. 153 Back to Basics