Buzz
Does proper preparation help reduce discomfort during underarm waxing?
©iStockphoto.com/Edyta PawlowskaWaxing is a popular method for removing underarm hair, but it can be uncomfortable. By preparing your skin correctly, you can minimize pain and irritation, ensuring a smoother waxing experience.
Underarm waxing offers the same advantages as waxing other body parts. Since the hair is removed from the root, it takes longer to regrow, leaving you hair-free for up to two weeks or more [source: MedicineNet]. Additionally, repeated waxing can weaken hair follicles, resulting in thinner, finer regrowth or even permanent hair reduction over time.
Achieving smooth underarms requires some effort. While waxing your legs or other areas at home might be straightforward, underarms pose a challenge due to the difficulty of using both hands effectively. Unless you have a friend to assist, visiting a professional salon is often the best solution.
Whether you choose to wax at home or visit a salon, preparing your underarm skin is crucial. Skipping this step can lead to redness and irritation. Follow the tips on the next page to reduce discomfort and achieve the best results.
Preparing Underarms for Waxing
Prepare your underarms for waxing by following a few easy steps before your appointment or DIY session.
Unclogged hair follicles make hair removal easier and less painful. If you haven’t exfoliated your underarms regularly, start a few days before waxing using a gentle scrub or washcloth. Apply a light moisturizer to soften the skin and hair follicles. Avoid deodorant on the day of waxing to prevent irritation.
The saying "no pain, no gain" applies to waxing, but you can minimize discomfort. Taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen 30 minutes before your session can reduce pain and prevent minor swelling. Alternatively, a numbing cream containing lidocaine may help, but use it cautiously as it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Always consult your doctor before trying it [source: Goins].
Hair length is crucial for effective waxing. Hair that’s too short won’t adhere to the wax, while overly long hair increases pain and may break above the root. For optimal results, trim your underarm hair to about a quarter of an inch (6 millimeters) before waxing [source: Carrillo].
If you’re still uncertain about waxing, explore the next page for detailed insights on achieving smoother skin.
For DIY waxing, consider using pre-waxed strips for small areas. Any remaining hairs can be removed with tweezers. Avoid shaving over waxed areas, as it can cause irritation and won’t remove the root, leading to faster regrowth.
