by Dr. Janet Matuszek
I get asked this all the time. What is better for that “area”. Well…it is a individual choice.
Shaving cuts the hair down to the level of the skin. While quick and inexpensive, we all know that stubbles can develop as well as breakouts…especially in this St. Louis humid, hot weather. In addition, shaving products with scents can cause some women to have an allergic reaction. So best to use sensitive, perfume free shaving creams/lotions. Also better to shave in a warm shower or bath after at least 5-7 minutes to allow the hair to soften before shaving. And please…don’t press too hard. If it has been a while since shaving, you can trim the hair with scissors or a clipper before shaving. This helps save the life of your razor too.
Waxing, on the other hand, pulls the hair follicle at the root This process takes longer and is associated with a little more pain but that pain may be worth it to you given it can last up to 6 weeks if the hair root is pulled (shorter if hair is pulled but broken at the skin surface). If you are going on a long vacation, this may be the better option so you don’t have to bring shaving supplies with you. As with shaving products, some women can have allergic reactions to the wax itself causing rashes or breakouts. Waxing also seems to be the more expensive of the two options but there are some at home wax methods that can lessen the cost.
Both waxing and shaving can lead to bruising, bumps and ingrown hair.
So have a great summer and make the decision that is right for you.
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