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Bleaching Black Bristles or Upper Lip Fuzz?

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Bleaching black bristles or upper lip fuzz? If you have pale skin and fine hair, bleaching could be your alternative to electrolysis and waxing.

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Bleaching is one 'disap-hair-ing' act (pardon the pun) that is goof-proof enough to do at home. It's not exactly hair removal, but it has a similar effect. If you have pale skin and fine hair, bleaching could be your alternative to electrolysis and waxing. It's a lifesaver for pale women with facial hair, since it works especially well for embarrassing fuzz on the upper lip or cheeks. It's also good for arms, and even thighs. Because bleach is a strong chemical, you should never use it around the eye area or on the bikini line.

So what's the big idea?

The concept here is very simple: You apply bleach (often a chemical combination of hydrogen peroxide and sulfates) to the hair you want lightened. You wait for a specific amount of time (as indicated on the directions) and then carefully scrape off the goo and rinse your skin. The hairs turn pale enough to be virtually invisible. Better yet, the chemicals make your hairs even finer by essentially damaging them - so the hairs may get thinner and eventually even less noticeable.

Is a 'patch test' really necessary?

Yes. You need to do a patch test because you are using them on your skin, and likely on your precious face! If your skin becomes irritated then you may have an allergic reaction and should not bleach. I've never had any problems with irritated skin after bleaching, although there is a funny burning sensation with some brands.

What else can I expect from bleaching?

Once you actually get going, you may find the process time-consuming and messy. I have noticed that most beaching creams sort of harden and fall off in bits as they are working, so you should definitely wear old clothes and avoid walking around too much. Using small batches of stuff at a time helps keep it from getting too messy. Of course, there are salons that bleach, but this is more expensive.

How should I care for my face following treatment?

After you first rinse your skin, you will be a bit pink. I find that scraping the goo off gently and then rinsing very gently with cool water works best. I pat dry and avoid applying any other chemicals (moisturizers and make-up included) for a few hours, until my skin calms down. After a few hours, a soothing moisturizer keeps skin from drying out.

Should I bleach this summer?

If you are bleaching during the summer season, you need to keep in mind that if your skin tans, the hairs that you have bleached will be even more noticeable. So for summer, either wear a hat or try an alternative way of getting rid of hair.

I'm hot and rearing to go!

The gal who gets best results through bleaching is willing to follow directions scrupulously, passes the 'patch test' and has probably has pale skin. A big plus is that you don't have to worry about hair growing back, and you only have to bleach once every two weeks or so, as hair grows back. A Lifesaver alright!