Depilation (hair removed above the surface of the skin) lasts several hours to several days and can be achieved by shaving or depilatories (creams or "shaving powders" which chemically dissolve hair). Shaving is recomended over depilatorie creams as it generally has lesser side effects from the harsh chemicals.
Permanent hair removal involves several imperfect options. A number of methods have been developed to target the areas that regulate hair growth. Permanently destroying these areas while sparing surrounding tissue is a difficult very challenge. In general the most effective form of permanent hair removal is laser hair removal.