In the lifelong pursuit of body grooming, hair-free skin has not always been smooth sailing, even though it has always been at the top of the self-care agenda.
When it comes to which method of hair removal is better, there is no right answer – instead, it is a case of personal choice. Today, there are three popular techniques of hair removal: shaving, waxing, and laser hair removal.
Here is the 411 on how to determine which one is right for you.
Shaving Vs. Waxing Vs. Laser Hair Removal
Body hair is completely normal and oh-so natural. Some people choose to go completely bare and others choose to remove hair only on certain parts of their body. At the end of the day, the choice is yours!
Each hair removal method offers its own set of advantages and considerations, making it crucial to understand the key differences between them, in order to know which one is right for you.
Grab the razor – Shaving
Shaving is undoubtedly the most commonly used method for hair removal. Using a razor that scrapes the surface of the skin to remove hair, shaving is a quick and convenient option that can be performed at home without professional assistance.
This is the most temporary hair removal technique, but it’s quick, easy and relatively painless – just be careful not to nick or cut yourself in the process.
Key characteristics of shaving include:
- Cost-effective – you can get a razor almost everywhere and compared to hair removal treatments that require a professional to assist you, they are the easiest on the pocket.
- Temporary results – shaving typically lasts one to three days, with hair growing back relatively quickly, and sometimes regrowth can feel coarse or like stubble.
- Easy and painless – for the most part shaving is painless, as long as you know how to navigate that complex area around the ankle when shaving your legs.
- Suitable for all areas – Shaving can be used on any part of the body, although it may not be the most effective option for sensitive areas.
Pro Tip: Always use a sharp razor. A dull razor can lead to ingrown hairs, skin irritation or razor burn.
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Hot, but not too hot – Waxing
Waxing may not be everyone’s cup of tea, because of the many references made to it in Hollywood movies. And while it may not be painless, however, it is effective.
Heated wax is applied to the skin, and then once it’s cooled slightly – 1, 2, 3 – it’s pulled off in the opposite direction of the hair growth to remove the hair. Although this method is temporary too – it removes hair from the root, providing longer-lasting results compared to shaving.
Any part of the body can be waxed, from eyebrows and underarms to bikini areas and legs.
Pro tip: Experts recommend exfoliating 48 hours before waxing.
Key characteristics of waxing include:
- Longer-lasting results.
- Finer regrowth.
- Slight discomfort and pain – but it’s temporary.
Pro Tip: Professional assistance might be needed. While waxing can be done at home using DIY waxing kits, seeking professional assistance is recommended for better results, especially for larger areas like the legs or sensitive areas like the bikini line.
Zap it away – Laser Hair Removal
Drop the razor! You might not need it ever again if you’re looking for a more permanent hair removal method.
Laser hair removal is a popular cosmetic procedure that uses concentrated beams of light to target the pigment of the hair follicle and burns it away. It offers the most long-term solution for hair removal.
Key characteristics of waxing include:
- Long-lasting results -that could lead to permanence after multiple sessions.
- Precision and effectiveness – Laser technology can target hair follicles with precision, leaving the surrounding skin unharmed.
- Professional expertise required – Laser hair removal is a medical procedure that requires the expertise of a trained professional. Multiple sessions are usually needed for optimal results.
- Cost and considerations: Laser hair removal tends to be more expensive compared to shaving or waxing and due to the fact that multiple sessions are needed, it can turn out to cost a pretty penny.
- Additionally, it may not be suitable for individuals with certain skin tones or hair colours.
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Choosing the right hair removal method is a personal choice, each with its own pros and cons. Understanding the differences between shaving, waxing, and laser hair removal will empower you to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and the needs of your body.
Remember, what matters most is finding a method that makes you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.
Enjoy that smooth hairless feeling!
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Featured Image: Getty
