Since around 3000 BC, we’ve found ways to remove hair that’s considered unsightly, so all this hullabaloo has been going on for quite a while now. If you’re still in the game, you might sometimes wonder if your hair removal tactics are really effective, or if they’re even making things worse, God forbid.
Whether you’re curious about shaving, waxing, or other methods, HuffPost spoke with experts to bust some myths and get some great advice. Here is:
1. Shaving makes hair darker and thicker
Not true. And, if you think about it, that makes sense. “If that were true, we would shave every bald man’s head to bring back his hair,” saidJoy Tavernisebeautician and brand founder JTAV Clinical Skin Care.
According to dermatologist Michael Jacobs, Clinical Associate Professor of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine, this is a myth that needs to be busted. “When you shave, you’re just trimming the hair, so it doesn’t affect the root of the hair. The thickness and darkness is caused by your own genetics.
Dermatologist Rebecca Marcus agreed: “Shaving cuts the hair shaft at the surface of the skin and has no effect on the hair follicle, where the hair is produced, and therefore cannot affect the quality of the hair. Hair may temporarily appear thicker when it regrows because it is short.
2. Your hair grows back faster with shaving
This one is actually sort of true. If you pluck your hair, you remove the entire follicle from the root, which takes some time to reach the surface of your skin once it starts to regrow. With shaving, on the other hand, regrowth has a head start on the surface of your skin. “Shaving results can last anywhere from two to seven days, depending on the person,” Jacobs said. Marcus said: “Waxing should last between three and six weeks.”
3. Shaving creates ingrown hairs
It’s a “yes, but” situation. According to Jacobs, there are ways to prevent ingrown hairs if you shave. “Using a chemical exfoliant on the skin before shaving can remove buildup and dead skin cells, which helps prevent ingrown hairs,” he says. “Using an appropriate shaving cream or shaving gel before and after shaving can also reduce negative effects, such as itching, razor burn, redness and ingrown hairs.”
reviewer said this razor gave them the best shave they ever had, while another said they actually enjoy shaving now.
The razor comes with 10 stainless steel German-designed replacement blades; however ,you can also get a pack of 10 razor refills also from Oui the People.","source":"","title":"A rose gold safety razor made for sensitive skin","type":"image","meta":null,"summary":null,"badge":null,"cta":[{"text":"Get it from Oui the People for $75.","url":"https://bit.ly/34I8uqQ","ampPositionInUnit":1,"positionInSubUnit":1}],"credit":"Oui the People","creditUrl":"Oui the People","thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"620c69882c0000c557df7103.jpg","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Oui the People developed their rose gold single-blade safety razor specifically with sensitive skin in mind. The company paid specific attention to the head angle, blade exposure and the perfectly balanced weight that would provide an ideal pressure to the skin. One reviewer said this razor gave them the best shave they ever had, while another said they actually enjoy shaving now.
The razor comes with 10 stainless steel German-designed replacement blades; however ,you can also get a pack of 10 razor refills also from Oui the People.","credit":"Oui the People","width":1080,"height":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":0,"imagePositionInSubUnit":0},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/620c6cf52c0000df57df7109.jpg","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"620c6cf6e4b05706db6f7e55","caption":"Green Estate's three-piece razor securely holds a double-edged blade between two sections of metal to provide a controlled shave. 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One reviewer on Amazon said that this has the perfect combination of blade angle, alignment and weight to give a very close and non-aggressive shave.","credit":"Amazon","width":1080,"height":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":4,"imagePositionInSubUnit":4},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/620c6a8a2c0000a157df7105.jpg","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"620c6a8be4b055057aa79d79","caption":"This rust-resistant safety razor by Zomchi has nearly 3,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. It features a textured handle to prevent slippage even when wet and comes with a matching chromed brass stand for convenient storage. 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Five weighted safety razors that will give you the closest shave of your life
4. All parts of the body are created equal
Not true. You can change your hair removal method depending on the area you are working on.
“Hair in your armpits and bikini area grows faster than hair on your face, head, legs, and arms,” Tavernise explained. “Knowing this, waxing your armpits and bikini line will be more beneficial in keeping those hairs at bay, as waxing has a slower regrowth rate than shaving. Shaving is more beneficial for the legs and arms, and dermaplaning is best for the face.
5. Waxing will reduce the amount of hair you have
It is a certain maybe.
“Over time, waxing can decrease hair volume, compared to shaving,” Jacobs said. “Hair begins to grow back less and the effects of the wax treatment last longer.”
Marcus didn’t agree 100% with this assessment, offering a “it depends” view: “While waxing may reduce hair growth in some epilators over the long term, it’s not Laser or electrolysis is the only way to permanently reduce hair growth,” she said.
6. Retinoids and hair removal don’t mix
It’s true. “If you’re taking a retinoid, it’s important to stop using it five to seven days before waxing to avoid the risk of stripping the skin with the wax,” Marcus says, explaining that topical retinoids can slim down. the outer layer of the skin. and make it more responsive to procedures like waxing. You can get a wax on any part of the body where you don’t apply retinoids.
7. Waxing is better for sensitive areas
This one is true. According to Jacobs, “waxing is more suitable for sensitive areas like the bikini line and armpits because it’s more precise, reduces the risk of irritating the skin, and is less likely to cause ingrown hairs” than shaving.
Amazon","thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"61fd569c360000d82124e225.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Professional waxers use baby powder before waxing for a reason. Not only does it prevent the wax from sticking to your skin and reduce the pain, but it also dries up the area if you happen to be sweaty. Keep this handy bottle of Johnson's baby powder nearby and apply liberally on your skin before you apply wax. It's worth the mess.","credit":"Amazon","width":1080,"height":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":10,"imagePositionInSubUnit":10},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/61fd5599360000371d24e221.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"61fd559ae4b0f8a1b843df1c","caption":"There's a reason the GiGi wax warmer is so popular and highly rated. It perfectly regulates the temperature of the wax, melting it quickly and then maintaining the correct temperature for as long as you are using it. The simple settings make it easy to control so you never have to worry about burning yourself.","source":"","title":"A wax warmer","type":"image","meta":null,"summary":null,"badge":null,"cta":[{"text":"Get it from Amazon for $27.","url":"https://www.amazon.com/GiGi-0225-Wax-Warmer/dp/B0030ZRS7A?tag=thehuffingtop-20&ascsubtag=62cc81dce4b02e0ac917de38%2C-1%2C-1%2Cd%2C0%2C0%2Chp-fil-am%3D0%2C0%3A0%2C0%2C0%2C0","ampPositionInUnit":13,"positionInSubUnit":13,"isAmazonLink":true}],"credit":"Amazon","creditUrl":"Amazon","thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"61fd5599360000371d24e221.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"There's a reason the GiGi wax warmer is so popular and highly rated. It perfectly regulates the temperature of the wax, melting it quickly and then maintaining the correct temperature for as long as you are using it. The simple settings make it easy to control so you never have to worry about burning yourself.","credit":"Amazon","width":1080,"height":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":12,"imagePositionInSubUnit":12},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/61fd54252c0000a01cdf63ea.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"61fd5425e4b05004242cc184","caption":"After some trial and error, I landed on using Cirepil Blue's hard wax. It is the best at snagging those baby-fine hairs that are easy to miss, plus it's made of high-quality ingredients, doesn't irritate the skin and is easy to work with. The refillable bags make it a breeze to stock up when you run out.
Always make sure you test the temperature of the wax before you apply a large amount to a sensitive area. Once you are ready and powdered, hold the skin taut as you apply the wax going against the direction of hair growth. Let it stiffen until it becomes tacky, then use your fingers to pull the wax in the direction of the grain. I find that a quick exhale at the exact moment of the pull helps to mitigate potential discomfort.","source":"","title":"Professional-grade hard wax","type":"image","meta":null,"summary":null,"badge":null,"cta":[{"text":"Get it from Amazon starting at $26.99.","url":"https://www.amazon.com/Cirepil-All-Purpose-Unscented-Non-Strip-Disposable/dp/B008L0AI3U?tag=thehuffingtop-20&ascsubtag=62cc81dce4b02e0ac917de38%2C-1%2C-1%2Cd%2C0%2C0%2Chp-fil-am%3D0%2C0%3A0%2C0%2C0%2C0","ampPositionInUnit":15,"positionInSubUnit":15,"isAmazonLink":true}],"credit":"Amazon","creditUrl":"Amazon","thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"61fd54252c0000a01cdf63ea.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"After some trial and error, I landed on using Cirepil Blue's hard wax. It is the best at snagging those baby-fine hairs that are easy to miss, plus it's made of high-quality ingredients, doesn't irritate the skin and is easy to work with. The refillable bags make it a breeze to stock up when you run out.
Always make sure you test the temperature of the wax before you apply a large amount to a sensitive area. Once you are ready and powdered, hold the skin taut as you apply the wax going against the direction of hair growth. Let it stiffen until it becomes tacky, then use your fingers to pull the wax in the direction of the grain. I find that a quick exhale at the exact moment of the pull helps to mitigate potential discomfort.","credit":"Amazon","width":1080,"height":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":14,"imagePositionInSubUnit":14},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/61fd52db2c0000a01cdf63e6.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"61fd52dce4b06abdc42fa2f1","caption":"Six-inch craft sticks, like these from Pandaspa, are perfect for applying wax. It helps you cover a large-ish surface area and makes it easier to wield the hot wax. Stock up, because you're going to be going through them quickly.","source":"","title":"A large bag of craft sticks","type":"image","meta":null,"summary":null,"badge":null,"cta":[{"text":"Get them from Amazon for $7.25.","url":"https://www.amazon.com/Premium-Natural-Building-Creating-Projects/dp/B08R31HGXV?tag=thehuffingtop-20&ascsubtag=62cc81dce4b02e0ac917de38%2C-1%2C-1%2Cd%2C0%2C0%2Chp-fil-am%3D0%2C0%3A0%2C0%2C0%2C0","ampPositionInUnit":17,"positionInSubUnit":17,"isAmazonLink":true}],"credit":"Amazon","creditUrl":"Amazon","thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"61fd52db2c0000a01cdf63e6.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Six-inch craft sticks, like these from Pandaspa, are perfect for applying wax. It helps you cover a large-ish surface area and makes it easier to wield the hot wax. Stock up, because you're going to be going through them quickly.","credit":"Amazon","width":1080,"height":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":16,"imagePositionInSubUnit":16},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/61fd4e6a2700001b1c457663.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"61fd4e6be4b09170e9d03fa4","caption":"You're going to be spending a lot of time sitting square on your bum, especially in the beginning. I found that having a spare Amazon Basics yoga mat to catch the baby powder and provide a gentle cushion makes a huge difference in my ability to get in all the positions I need to in order to get the job done. I have a designated waxing mat exclusively for this activity, but you can always use one you already have and put down a towel or even paper towels to help with clean-up.","source":"","title":"A thick yoga mat","type":"image","meta":null,"summary":null,"badge":null,"cta":[{"text":"Get it from Amazon for $20.95.","url":"https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-2-Inch-Extra-Thick-Exercise/dp/B071RM52HC?tag=thehuffingtop-20&ascsubtag=62cc81dce4b02e0ac917de38%2C-1%2C-1%2Cd%2C0%2C0%2Chp-fil-am%3D0%2C0%3A0%2C0%2C0%2C0","ampPositionInUnit":19,"positionInSubUnit":19,"isAmazonLink":true}],"credit":"Amazon","creditUrl":"Amazon","thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"61fd4e6a2700001b1c457663.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"You're going to be spending a lot of time sitting square on your bum, especially in the beginning. I found that having a spare Amazon Basics yoga mat to catch the baby powder and provide a gentle cushion makes a huge difference in my ability to get in all the positions I need to in order to get the job done. I have a designated waxing mat exclusively for this activity, but you can always use one you already have and put down a towel or even paper towels to help with clean-up.","credit":"Amazon","width":1080,"height":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":18,"imagePositionInSubUnit":18},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/61fd4a0d250000cc1d2b138c.png","queryParams":{},"width":886,"height":896,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"61fd4a29e4b09170e9d0337f","caption":"You likely already have one in your home, but I recommend picking up a mirror like this one from NeuType that you can prop up against the wall and move around as needed. Natural light is definitely preferable to artificial lamplight, so having the ability to move the mirror around as the light changes is a big bonus.
If you are only waxing your legs or the sides of your bikini line, you don't really need the mirror. However, if you are venturing into Brazilian or G-string-style wax territory, having a mirror is crucial. You need to be able to get into whatever positions necessary and have a clear view of what you are doing. Don't be afraid to get up close and personal. Think of it as an exercise in body acceptance.","source":"","title":"A full-length mirror","type":"image","meta":null,"summary":null,"badge":null,"cta":[{"text":"Get it from Amazon for $128.99.","url":"https://www.amazon.com/NeuType-Standing-Bedroom-Dressing-Wall-Mounted/dp/B07K43RH9R?tag=thehuffingtop-20&ascsubtag=62cc81dce4b02e0ac917de38%2C-1%2C-1%2Cd%2C0%2C0%2Chp-fil-am%3D0%2C0%3A0%2C0%2C0%2C0","ampPositionInUnit":21,"positionInSubUnit":21,"isAmazonLink":true}],"credit":"Amazon","creditUrl":"Amazon","thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"61fd4a0d250000cc1d2b138c.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"You likely already have one in your home, but I recommend picking up a mirror like this one from NeuType that you can prop up against the wall and move around as needed. Natural light is definitely preferable to artificial lamplight, so having the ability to move the mirror around as the light changes is a big bonus.
If you are only waxing your legs or the sides of your bikini line, you don't really need the mirror. However, if you are venturing into Brazilian or G-string-style wax territory, having a mirror is crucial. You need to be able to get into whatever positions necessary and have a clear view of what you are doing. Don't be afraid to get up close and personal. Think of it as an exercise in body acceptance.","credit":"Amazon","width":886,"height":896,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":20,"imagePositionInSubUnit":20},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/61fd46f63600003c1d24e1f8.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"61fd4701e4b0b69cfe8e5344","caption":"Sometimes the wax might miss some of the finer, fuzzy hairs. They either just don't seem to stick to the wax, the angle is off or your skin is too sweaty. It happens! A sharp, angled Tweezerman tweezer can help clean up any leftovers and gently coax out stubborn ingrowns. I know you have a decades-old, dull tweezer at home. Do not use that one. You'll waste precious time trying to grasp those hard-to-reach hairs.","source":"","title":"A fresh set of tweezers","type":"image","meta":null,"summary":null,"badge":null,"cta":[{"text":"Get it from Amazon starting at $11.","url":"https://www.amazon.com/Tweezerman-Mini-Slant-Tweezer-Flamingo/dp/B000WI02HG?tag=thehuffingtop-20&ascsubtag=62cc81dce4b02e0ac917de38%2C-1%2C-1%2Cd%2C0%2C0%2Chp-fil-am%3D0%2C0%3A0%2C0%2C0%2C0","ampPositionInUnit":23,"positionInSubUnit":23,"isAmazonLink":true}],"credit":"Amazon","creditUrl":"Amazon","thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"61fd46f63600003c1d24e1f8.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Sometimes the wax might miss some of the finer, fuzzy hairs. They either just don't seem to stick to the wax, the angle is off or your skin is too sweaty. It happens! A sharp, angled Tweezerman tweezer can help clean up any leftovers and gently coax out stubborn ingrowns. I know you have a decades-old, dull tweezer at home. Do not use that one. You'll waste precious time trying to grasp those hard-to-reach hairs.","credit":"Amazon","width":1080,"height":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":22,"imagePositionInSubUnit":22},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/61fd4cd7360000c72124e208.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"61fd4cdce4b09170e9d03bdb","caption":"Soothe your post-wax skin with Tend Skin. It’s a popular toner that helps to prevent redness and ingrown hairs while soothing the affected area. It’s been around forever and is the gold standard for waxing and shaving aftercare. It can be a bit tingly, but it works significantly better than aloe-based solutions that can clog pores and actually cause ingrown hairs.","source":"","title":"A cult-fave skin solution","type":"image","meta":null,"summary":null,"badge":null,"cta":[{"text":"Get it from Amazon for $24.99.","url":"https://www.amazon.com/Tend-Skin-Solution-Unsightly-Ingrown/dp/B001ECQ7G4?tag=thehuffingtop-20&ascsubtag=62cc81dce4b02e0ac917de38%2C-1%2C-1%2Cd%2C0%2C0%2Chp-fil-am%3D0%2C0%3A0%2C0%2C0%2C0","ampPositionInUnit":25,"positionInSubUnit":25,"isAmazonLink":true}],"credit":"Amazon","creditUrl":"Amazon","thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"61fd4cd7360000c72124e208.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"Soothe your post-wax skin with Tend Skin. It’s a popular toner that helps to prevent redness and ingrown hairs while soothing the affected area. It’s been around forever and is the gold standard for waxing and shaving aftercare. It can be a bit tingly, but it works significantly better than aloe-based solutions that can clog pores and actually cause ingrown hairs.","credit":"Amazon","width":1080,"height":1080,"ops":""},"textWrap":"wrapped","imagePositionInUnit":24,"imagePositionInSubUnit":24},"provider":null},{"embedData":{"type":"hector","url":"https://img.huffingtonpost.com/asset/61fd461c250000cc1d2b1382.png","queryParams":{},"width":1080,"height":1080,"credit":"Amazon"},"type":"image","common":{"id":"61fd462ee4b0725faac9597c","caption":"The last thing anyone wants is to get an infection as a result of digging around for ingrown hairs. Make sure you wipe down your tweezers with these Clever Health alcohol prep pads before and after each session to keep things nice and clean.","source":"","title":"A box of sterilizing prep pads","type":"image","meta":null,"summary":null,"badge":null,"cta":[{"text":"Get it from Amazon for $6.99.","url":"https://www.amazon.com/Alcohol-Prep-Pads-Medium-2-Ply/dp/B07SNVBPPY?tag=thehuffingtop-20&ascsubtag=62cc81dce4b02e0ac917de38%2C-1%2C-1%2Cd%2C0%2C0%2Chp-fil-am%3D0%2C0%3A0%2C0%2C0%2C0","ampPositionInUnit":27,"positionInSubUnit":27,"isAmazonLink":true}],"credit":"Amazon","creditUrl":"Amazon","thumbnail":{"url":{"fileName":"61fd461c250000cc1d2b1382.png","type":"hectorUrl"},"caption":"The last thing anyone wants is to get an infection as a result of digging around for ingrown hairs. 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Everything you need to give yourself a professional style wax at home
8. Curly hair is more difficult to remove safely
Yes, this one is true. “Those with curly hair are more likely to develop folliculitis, a skin condition in which follicles become inflamed, than those with straight hair,” Marcus said.
You wonder why? According at the Mayo Cliniccurly hair grows from curved hair follicles, so it is this curved shape that is more likely to encourage hair to re-enter the skin when re-growing. This tends to happen more when the hair is shaved, as shaving creates a sharper edge to the hair, making it easier to break through the skin.
9. Razor bumps are incurable.
Not so. “For those prone to razor bumps from ingrown hairs and/or folliculitis, I recommend using an exfoliating pad to help prevent ingrown hairs during the regrowth phase,” Marcus says. “Bump Attendant by Bliss is an effective product that contains several anti-bump ingredients, including glycolic acid, salicylic acid, witch hazel and anti-inflammatory oat extract, and niacinamide.
Tavernise also recommended exfoliation: “The best way to prevent ingrown hairs is to carefully exfoliate the area beforehand to remove dead skin cells that cause hair to get stuck under the skin.”
10. How much hair you have – and where – is part of your personal style
Absolutely true. You do it whether it means a hairless or totally hairy physique.
“Some people don’t like their body or their facial hair and want it removed, while others embrace it,” Tavernise said. “In my practice, we serve those who wish to remove hair, but if someone comes in for a facial or body treatment and does not wish to remove hair, the treatments will still be effective. When it comes to bodies, it’s important to respect and honor your own as well as that of others.
