Hair removal is something that most people leave to the professionals. However, there are plenty of options to remove unwanted body hair at home without using a razor. The most effective home hair removal treatments, of course, are the ones that prevent hair from growing in the first place. Just as there are many remedies that are touted as wonderful for making the hair on our heads grow long and lustrous, there are those that suppress hair growth. Most of the home remedies that suppress the growth of hair work over the long term. They are used consistently over months and years to slowly discourage hair growth. These remedies are either used alone or in combination with other ingredients that are beneficial for the skin. Most have been used traditionally since ancient times and others have been passed on from generation to generation. The results vary from person to person. Always do a patch test on a small area of skin to test for allergies and irritation before use.

Turmeric
Turmeric has many properties that are very beneficial to the skin. It is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. It also has the effect of evening out the skin tone by fading spots. In addition to this turmeric has the effect of weakening the hair roots which makes them easier to remove. It has been used by Indian women for centuries to brighten the complexion, treat skin problems and also discourage hair growth. The only disadvantage is that it leaves a yellow tint on the skin. Since this yellowish color is considered attractive or normal in the countries and regions where it is traditionally used, it is not an issue for women there. To avoid the yellow stain on the skin it is better to just add a small quantity to a face pack instead of using turmeric alone and to wash it off well. Applying coconut oil also works to remove the yellow color.

Papaya
Papaya has an enzyme called papain when applied to the skin regularly weakens the follicles of the hair. It is said to discourage regrowth of hair over the long term.

Alum and rose water
Alum has the effect of affecting hair growth. It is usually mixed in rose water and applied over the areas where one does not want hair. This is allowed to dry and washed off. Sometimes the application is repeated in several layers. Using this treatment over many months suppresses the regrowth of unwanted hair.

Lavender and tea tree oils
Regular application of this oil helps to change the ill effects of hormonal problems that cause a change in their growth patterns. Since both these oils are thought to have antiandrogenic properties they are said to stop the growth of unwanted hair.

Onion and Basil leaves
Onion by itself is recommended to encourage hair growth but when combined with basil leaves the effect is quite the opposite. Applying a crushed mixture of basil leaves and chopped onions on the face and other areas regularly may not leave you smelling of roses but is one of the most effective home hair removal treatments used for generations.