It might not be the most glamorous of tasks, but hair removal can still be a big part of our beauty routines. With lots of myths around what you should and shouldn't do, we're giving you the low-down on everything you really need to know about shaving, waxing and even at home laser hair removal!
The Different Types of Hair Removal
If you choose to get rid of your body hair, then there are a ton of hair removal options to choose from. We're breaking down the pros and cons of each of them so you can decide what works for you and find the best products.
1. Shaving
Shaving is probably the most common form of hair removal. Most of us are likely to have picked up a razor at some point.
The Pros
Affordability. Shaving is relatively cheap, with the cost of razors and shave cream being the only necessity
Easiness. This is one of the quickest and easiest forms of hair removal, and pretty much everyone can manage it.
Painlessness. If you are careful not to nick or cut your skin as you go, you shouldn't feel a thing.
The Cons
Longevity. Shaving only removes hair at skin level, so it will grow back pretty quickly; usually in just a couple of days.
Ingrown Hairs or Razor Bumps. These are especially likely if your blade gets a little blunt or you don't use a good shave cream.
Tips for the Best Shave
We've already shared all our favourite products for getting that perfect shave everytime, but there are some basics you should always follow:
Exfoliate well. Keep scrubbing everytime you jump in the shower to help prevent ingrown hairs.
Shave with an oil or cream. It will help prevent nicks and cuts, as well as razor burn.
Keep your blades sharp. Replace your blades about every 5-10 shaves to get a closer shave and help prevent things like shaving rash.
Store your razor in the dry. It is more hygienic if the blades can get fully dry between each use and will help blades stay sharper too so remember to take your razor out of the shower after each use.
2. Hair Removal Cream
Hair Removal or Depilatory Creams are anther popular option for whisking away those pesky hairs. They work by dissolving your hair; you apply the cream, let it settle and then wipe it away along with your hairs.
The Pros
Affordability. Like shaving, this is a relatively affordable option for hair removal.
Painlessness. There is no risk of nicks or cuts, making it pretty much the most painless option you can find!
The Cons
Sensitivity. The chemicals in hair removal cream can be quite strong, causing sensitivity in some people. Look for sensitive formulations and wash it straight off if it feels like it burns.
The Smell. There is no hiding the fact that hair removal creams do not smell the nicest and it isn't always the nicest experience as a result.
Longevity. Like shaving, hair is removed only at the skin surface so regrows fairly quickly.
Effectiveness. On particularly coarse hair, depilatory creams don't tend to work that well; they are better suited to those with fine hair.
As a beauty fanatic I'm always on the lookout to try and experiment with new products! I’ve been writing about everything beauty for over 3 years and specialise in skincare so have plenty of tips and tricks to help put blemishes at bay and get your complexion glowing. Whilst being a content writer at LOOKFANTASTIC I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with incredible brands including Tom Ford, Dolce & Gabbana and La Mer, taking my understanding of the industry to the next level. In the past I’ve been a freelance makeup artist and have collaborated with brands including NYX and Revolution Beauty on a personal level, sharing my makeup creations for the world to see. My ride or die brands have to be PIXI, Laura Mercier and Bobbi Brown and I can’t live without my trusty MAC Velvet Teddy!