Waxing or shaving: which is a better method for hair removal?

Waxing is by far the most popular method of removing unwanted hair in Indian cities. Waxing can be done with both soft and hard wax. Soft wax requires cotton strips to remove the hair. Hard wax dries on the surface of the skin and does not require strips to remove the hair.

Pros

• Waxing removes the hair from the root and gives a smooth finish to the skin.
• The hair does not grow back for at least two weeks after waxing.
• There are different types of wax available for different skin types. For instance, chocolate wax for normal skin, whereas Rica wax can be used for sensitive skin. 
• Waxing does not leave the skin dry.
• Waxing also removes some of the dead cells from the outermost layer of the skin, making the skin look fresh and clean.

Cons

• Waxing can be a painful procedure for many people.
• Waxing requires a lot of appliances, like wax, waxing strips, wax heater and a clean towel.
• Waxing is a messy process and requires expertise.
• An improper waxing technique can tear the skin.
• Hot wax can cause skin burns. (Read more: First-aid for burns)
• Some people can have a skin allergy or bad reaction to different types of wax. Additionally, experts advise against waxing if you already have an allergy.
• Some people also get waxing pimples or acne in the waxed area, especially after facial waxing.
• Waxing can lead to folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles).

Shaving is an easy procedure which can be done at any time of the day with just a razor. The most important thing to keep in mind is to shave with the grain, which means in the direction of hair growth. 

Pros

• Shaving is a pain-free procedure.
• Shaving is an easy procedure and does not require any expertise.
• Shaving does not take much time.
• Shaving does not require too many appliances.
• Shaving is cost-effective as all you need to buy is a razor.

Cons

• Shaving against the grain can cut the hair finely but can lead to skin inflammation and razor rashes (skin rashes).
• The hair start growing back within two or three days of shaving.
• Shaving can lead to ingrown hair. (Read more: How to remove ingrown hair)
• A razor must be used precisely or else it can end up cutting your skin. 
• Shaving can leave your skin dry. (Read more: Home remedies for dry skin)
• Using the same razor, again and again, can lead to skin infections which in turn can lead to problems like folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles).
• Using someone else’s razor can lead to the spread of bacterial infections, fungal infections and viral infections.
• Sweating in the shaved area can lead to burning of the skin in that area.

You should be the one to decide which method, out of waxing and shaving, is preferable for you. While some of you can bear the pain of waxing, others prefer shaving because it is relatively painless. Neither method is better or worse - if you decide to remove your hair, you need to chose which one is right for you and then take all the necessary precautions before you proceed.

Read more: How to safely remove pubic hair for women