Waxing is a relatively long-lasting way to keep unwanted hair off your body—you can usually go up to three weeks between appointments. However, this does not imply that no maintenance is required during the downtime.
Also, a waxing routine requires dedication—you must be willing to live with a small amount of hair once it begins to grow back, and you should use waxing as your sole, regular method of hair removal if possible.
Is it, however, safe to shave after waxing? Here’s the answer, as well as a couple of helpful hints for waxing.
Should You Shave After Waxing?
Waiting for your hair to grow out again is one of the inconvenient aspects of waxing, as the process can only remove hairs that are at least a quarter-inch long.
It may be tempting to abandon your waxing routine in favor of instant gratification with a razor. This is perfectly acceptable—you can shave after a wax. This, however, may return you to square one because shaving leaves the hair with a blunt end, making it appear thicker and darker when it grows back. Waxing removes the entire hair from the follicle, allowing it to regrow in its natural state (with a tapered edge).
Shaving also affects the growth cycles of your individual hairs, which can result in uneven hair lengths and even stubble when waxing.
Putting up with the growth period is definitely worthwhile—you may notice a difference in the texture and amount of hair over time, which may result in fewer waxing appointments in the future. If you can’t wait for your hair to grow, try sugaring paste, which can remove hair as short as a quarter-inch.
Moisturize
You might not think about moisturizing down there, but you should. Maintaining skin hydration keeps it soft, supple, and healthy. Not to mention that it relieves the itchiness that occurs when the stubble begins to grow.
Fur Oil ($46) was designed specifically for the bikini area, as well as any other area that you may wax, such as the upper lip, legs, and underarms. (Note: Avoid using heavy or perfumed lotions for the first few days after waxing because they can clog your pores or cause irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.)
Exfoliate In Between Waxing Appointments
Exfoliating the body on a regular basis is essential for maintaining smooth skin. A light buffing in between waxes helps keep the hair follicle free of dead skin cells, making pimples and ingrown hairs less likely.
Exfoliate twice or three times per week with a sugar scrub like Ouai Scalp and Body Scrub ($38). The chemical exfoliants salicylic acid and glycolic acid used in Bliss Bump Attendant Pads ($22) are gentle but powerful enough to prevent and soothe irritation.
Wax On
Waxing, like any other aspect of your beauty and personal care routine, necessitates some upkeep and discipline. If you stick with it, you’ll get the best results.
