Is Waxing Better Than Shaving
Waxing- Waxing is a semi-permanent process that removes hair from the root. Soft or hard wax is applied to the hair (the wax is heated up so it’s sticky and will adhere to the hair).
After the wax is applied it starts to cool down, this is when the wax starts to harden around the hair follicles. The wax is pulled off in a swift manner which reduces the discomfort of the hairs coming out.
Shaving- Shaving is the process of removing hair with a blade or blades. The blades cut the hair very close to the skin’s surface. Shaving like waxing can be used on almost all parts of the body (arms, legs, back, abdomen, chest, face, pubic region, etc.).
What are some of the advantages of waxing
- Waxing removes hair from the root and because the hair is taken out from the root it takes longer to grow back.
- It is a clean and hygienic process
- Waxing over time reduces hair growth and the hair grows back finer
- There is no risk of cuts or nicks which can leave the skin scarred and discolored
- Waxing provides a smoother surface and longer-lasting result.
- When waxing not only is hair pulled out but waxing exfoliates the skin. Dead skin cells are taken away as well and this is why the skin feels so smooth after waxing.
- No itching. Itching is a common problem when shaving
- Hyperpigmentation is not an issue with waxing. This condition can develop when dark spots appear on the skin after the same area has been shaved several times (depending on the person, their skin condition and health).
What are some of the advantages of shaving
- Shaving is a simple process that only requires a shaving device and shaving gel or foam. Shaving can be done almost anywhere
- Shaving is a painless method unless you cut or nick yourself
- Typically shaving is a quick process
- No need to wait for the hair to grow a minimum length as you do with waxing.
- Shaving is a relatively cheap process.
Now that we have gone over some of the advantages of waxing and shaving we will address the disadvantages of both.
Some disadvantages of waxing
- Waxing needs to be done on hair that is at least a quarter-inch long, which means that it will take some time for the hair to grow between waxings
- Can be painful depending on the type of skin a person has
- Temporary redness can be caused if you have sensitive skin
- Result in ingrown hair
- Waxing can be quite expensive
- Mistakes can be disastrous ( especially when it comes to the hygiene of the spa, double-dipping, etc).
Some disadvantages of shaving
- Shaving does not take the hair from the root so you will have to shave frequently
- It can irritate the skin and leave it itchy and dry
- Razor burn, nicks, and cuts can result from shaving
- Shaving may result in thicker and darker looking hair
- Hair grows back faster (hair is not taken from the root) and hair will be prickly
Some things to keep in mind about waxing and shaving
When waxing, make sure the wax is not too hot as it could burn when applied to the skin. The temperature needs to be somewhere between 86 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature is essential not just so the wax adheres to the skin but to prevent bacterial growth. Too cool is also a problem as it won’t melt enough to cover and stick to the hair follicles. Waxing really should be done by a professional and when going to a salon make sure they use disposable waxing strips, good quality wax and the salon is clean.
When shaving a quality moisturizing cream can help the skin from getting irritated by direct blade contact. If you have sensitive skin make sure you choose the correct blade and shaving cream or gel. If using disposable razors only use them once and dispose of them. Using them multiple times will greatly increase the chances of getting nicks and cuts.
In conclusion
Both waxing and shaving have their good points. So the question we started this article with ‘ is waxing better than shaving ‘ really comes down to the situation and user preference.
Waxing would be the winner in most situations but shaving still has it’s upside as well. Whether you choose to go with waxing or shaving make sure you take the proper steps like if shaving, choose the proper shaving device for your skin and a quality shaving cream or gel.
If you decide that waxing is better for you, go to a professional who has a great deal of 5-star Google reviews and the clients explain why they loved the experience as this will give you an insight into what your experience will be like at that establishment.