One of the most time consuming and frustrating parts of bodybuilding is not building muscles, it's removing unwanted hair.

For any competing bodybuilder, hair removal is a must but it's also growing in popularity among casual bodybuilders.

Before looking at recommendations for specific body areas it should be stated that laser hair removal or electrolysis are regarded as the only permanent hair removal methods.

Although the most effective, they are also the most expensive! For full information on laser hair removal and electrolysis, visit this Laser Research Library: http://www.about-hair-removal.com/Laser-Library

Here is checklist of body areas and recommended hair removal methods for each:

Upper Lip, Chin, Mustache and Beard -

Men: Shaving.

Women: Waxing or sugaring.

Back of Neck -

Men: Shaving, clipping.

Women: Waxing or sugaring

Chest -

Waxing, shaving, depilatories.

CAUTION: Some find the shaving option unacceptable due to the irritation it causes when stubble reappears shortly afterwards. There can also be an acute problem with ingrown hairs in some cases. Once the shaving option is taken for chest hair removal it will need to be done regularly.

Nipples -

Tweezing. Stretch the skin slightly, grip the hair close to the root, and pull gently, firmly and evenly. Yanking the hair may cause it to break off thus increasing the risk of ingrown hair.

Shoulders, Back, Arms, Hands, Tummy -

Waxing, sugaring, depilatories. Waxing or Sugaring is the best method for all these areas. Taking a shower directly after waxing the back helps eliminate the possibility of acne breakouts and skin redness.

Underarms -

Shaving is safe in this area. Hair under the arm grows in all directions so a side to side stroke as well as up and down strokes may be necessary to catch all the hairs. Do not apply deodorants or antiperspirants right after shaving as this can cause acute irritation and soreness. Waxing or sugaring are also safe.

Do not use depilatories to avoid the risk of chemical burns on the sensitive skin in this area.

After the skin in this area has become accustomed to shaving, applying a thin layer of Vaseline petroleum jelly instead of a shaving foam or gel will give a really close shave.

Pubic Area and Bikini Line - If the hair is long it can be cut down with scissors. Then use a waxing or sugaring solution. Careful shaving is also possible.

Genitals - Male -

Hair growing on the shaft of the penis and on the testicles can be removed by shaving using a new wet razor. Great care is needed to avoid cuts.

Genitals - Female -

Waxing or sugaring is generally best. Shaving will only cause stubble to appear after a few days and it may cause skin irritation and painful bumps.

Anus and Perineum -

The Perineum is the area of skin rich in nerve endings located below the anus. In men it extends to the base of the testicles, in women to the vaginal opening. The anus is a mucous membrane. Depilatories should not be used as they can result in serious damage. Shaving produces stubble which may cause irritation as the sides chafe and rub together. Waxing or sugaring are the best methods.

Legs, Feet, Toes -

Shaving the legs is popular but the hair grows back after a short time. Waxing or sugaring are preferred although you have to wait until there is about a quarter of an inch of growth.