Electrolysis uses needles that are inserted into the hair shaft to gradually demolish the actual cells that grow your hair, making it impossible for hair to regrow in treated areas. Depending on the size of your treated area, electrolysis can take anywhere from 10 to 60 minutes per session and as many as 25 sessions to banish hair. Electrolysis can be done anywhere that hair grows, so use it to remove hair on your face, under your arms, on your legs and even on your bikini line.

Although electrolysis can take a long time to complete, once you're hair-free, you'll remain hair-free for good. Despite its ominous name, the procedure isn't as scary as you might think. Modern technology has resulted in electrolysis methods that cause minimal discomfort and, with the aid of a topical numbing cream, discomfort is even less.

Although effective, electrolysis doesn't come cheap; you may spend from $400 to $2,000 to get an area totally clear, depending on the number of treatments you require. Because electrolysis involves having a needle inserted into your skin, the process can be painful. There is also a chance of scarring. African-American women, whose skin is more prone to scarring, may want to consult a doctor before trying electrolysis.

Hair removed by shaving, waxing, tweezing and using depilatories stays away for only a short time. If you want a longer-lasting option, look into laser hair removal. Laser hair removal uses pulsed light to weaken the hair at its root. Like electrolysis, it requires several sessions and can gradually reduce the amount of visible hair on your body. However, there's no guarantee that hair won't eventually grow back. For truly permanent hair removal, electrolysis is your best bet.