When you have embarrassing facial hair, but you don't want to shave, wax or have it removed via laser, bleaching is an effective way to minimize the appearance of the hair. In fact, using a store-bought bleaching kit is the safest way to lighten facial hair, because it is specifically formulated for the delicate skin on the face. Just make sure that you follow the bleaching kit directions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome and less noticeable facial hair.
Use a facial bleaching kit made by a reputable cosmetics company. You can find it in the hair removal section of your drugstore, where you can choose from a variety of manufacturers.
Spot-test the bleaching kit on an inconspicuous place before you apply it to your face. This helps you to ensure that the bleach won't irritate your skin or cause an allergic reaction. Testing it on the more sensitive skin on the backside of your upper arm is close enough to the sensitivity of your skin, yet it won't show if you do have a reaction.
Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the area surrounding the area that you intend to bleach. This ensures that you are not unnecessarily bleaching the surrounding areas, and using only the amount of bleach that you need.
Apply the bleach with a the small brush that comes in the kit. If your kit did not come with a brush, using an old, clean soft bristle toothbrush works well too. Brush the bleach all over your darkest hair, going in the direction of the hair growth -- making sure to fully cover your dark facial hairs.
Wait the prescribed amount of time, and watch the clock carefully. Leaving the bleach on too long could make the hair too light, or even a reddish orange in color, or it could cause your skin to become irritated. Once the time is up, rinse the bleach off with warm water to remove.
Tip
Dry your face with an old towel, as some of the bleach could transfer to the towel and cause it to fade. Apply petroleum jelly to your face protects your lips and mouth from getting the bleach in and on them too.
References
- “Beauty Therapy: The Foundations: the Official Guide to NVQ/SVQ Level 2”; Lorraine Nordman
- Hair Finder: Lighten Body Hair
- "Home Doctor"; DK Publishing; Michael Peters
Writer Bio
Kay Ireland specializes in health, fitness and lifestyle topics. She is a support worker in the neonatal intensive care and antepartum units of her local hospital and recently became a certified group fitness instructor.