It’s the eternal struggle of hair removal – the debate between shaving and waxing.
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Some people shave or wax to enjoy smooth, hair-free legs, armpits, faces and bikini lines, while others do it to sport smooth and hairless chests and backs.
But what’s easier and better for your skin (and wallet)? Dermatologist Sarah Young, MD, gives us the pros and cons of shaving and waxing.
Take your time with shaving and use moisturizing products if your skin is sensitive. Never shave dry and choose shaving cream over soap. Wait until the end of your shower or bath to shave, when pores are open and skin has softened. One of the top shaving mistakes is shaving “against the grain,” so instead, shave in the direction that your hair grows to avoid ingrown hairs.
Waxing takes skill, so start at a salon or have someone more experienced teach you how to do it first. Keep an eye on temperatures when warming the wax to avoid burning your skin. For the best results, splurge on a trip to the salon with a professional.
Both techniques get rid of unnecessary hair and leave your skin feeling smooth. But both require extra care in sensitive areas – the bikini line for waxing and the joints, skin folds and bikini line for shaving.
It’s worth experimenting with both shaving and waxing to find out what method you prefer (and maybe even look into laser hair removal). Specific hair type, skin type and area that you’d like to remove hair from will all play a factor in your decision. The cost and ease of access is another important aspect to consider.
In the end, it comes down to your own personal preference, but a board certified dermatologist can give you solid advice and discuss what option might be best for you, especially when it comes to your hair and skin.
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