The Waxing vs Shaving debate - which is the better hair removal technique? To get a better understanding, let's take a deep dive into both and talk about the advantages and disadvantages to help you decide which of the two hair removal methods is right for you.
The Process of Waxing & Shaving
Before waxing, it's recommended to let your hair grow out at least 1/4 inch because it will ensure you're removing the hair directly from the root. Once you're ready to wax, this process can be done by using either wax strips or cold or warm wax products, such as Face & Body Wax, which is great for bikini waxing, leg waxing, and the removal of facial hair. Waxing not only leaves your skin's surface feeling smooth but will also remove any unwanted hair and avoids any ingrown hairs from coming in. This process can be done either by making a waxing appointment at a spa or in the comfort of your own home by using an At Home Waxing Kit.
Unlike waxing, the shaving process has a lot less prep time and is less time-consuming too. Frequent shaving involves wetting your skin to soften up the hairs, then once you've applied a shaving cream or gel, you would shave in the same direction of hair growth by using a razor blade.
The Benefits of Waxing vs. Shaving
When it comes to Shaving vs Waxing, the benefits of waxing far outweigh those of shaving. However, both have benefits that may be better suited for you and it's good to get informed before making your final decision.
Advantages of Waxing
- Waxing results last longer
When you use a waxing product such as Wax Strips, results can last up to 4 weeks compared to shaving, which is only around 1-3 days. Other waxes such as depilatory hot wax beads can last anywhere between 4-6 weeks. - Waxing removes hair from the root
When it comes to waxing, one of its biggest advantages is that it gets right down to the root, removing it straight from the hair follicle. Shaving is only able to break down the hairs at the surface, which makes it less effective. - Hairs grow back less and thinner
While hair regrowth is less, it's not necessarily thinner. This depends on the person of course, but the hair may not always come back thinner. However, there will be less hair coming in than before you waxed which is already a huge advantage! - Waxing has a smoother finish
Waxing will remove dead skin cells and exfoliate the skin's surface, which will give your skin a much smoother and softer finish when compared to shaving. - Waxing can prevent ingrown hairs
Ingrown hairs occur when the hair begins to grow and curl back into the skin, and they're not only painful but are unsightly too. Shaving creates a sharp edge on the hair, which pierces the skin and causes the hairs to grow in more painfully. This makes waxing a great substitute for shaving, because it doesn't result in those sharp tips and will reduce your chances of getting ingrown hair. - Your skin will get gentle exfoliation
After waxing, opt to give your body a light exfoliation. Not only will it help remove dry skin, but it will also eliminate dead skin cells, making hair thicker and smoother. This can be done by using Exfoliation Gloves, and your body will be softer than ever before! - You will have less annoying itching and prickliness
Hair takes longer to grow back after a wax, so you'll have less prickly and itchy skin in-between. It is also good to use a Pre Waxing Cleanser before your waxing session because it will cleanse your skin and get it better prepared for the wax. Post wax care is just as important, and using a Post Lotion that's enriched with Vitamin E will help keep your skin moisturized. - You will avoid the risk of nicks and cuts
Waxing is generally an easy and painless process, and you won't get nicks and cuts the way you would when you shave with a sharp razor.
Disadvantages of Shaving
- You run the risk of razor bumps or burns
Shaving involves using a sharp razor that can cause cuts, bumps, abrasions, and razor burn, leaving you with skin irritation. If you have sensitive skin, this can cause more discomfort. - Shaving cuts your hair from the surface of your skin
Shaving only grabs the surface of the hair, leaving the root intact. Waxing involves removing the hair straight from the root which gives it more of an advantage over shaving. - Shaving doesn't last as long as waxing
Shaving usually lasts between 1-3 days as opposed to waxing which can last up to 6 weeks! - Rough skin & ingrown hairs
Shaving can leave behind stubble, irritation, and ingrown hairs that cause discomfort for the hair's owner. If you have sensitive skin your skin may be more susceptible to razor burns too, so it's always best to use a lotion to help soothe the skin's surface.
Waxing vs. Shaving - Which Result is Better & Which Lasts Longer? Conclusion
If you're looking for hair-free skin that lasts weeks, then waxing with a professional wax product is the true winner. This method will remove hair more effectively and the hair will also grow back at a much slower rate. Depending on what your skin type is, shaving may cause more pain, especially if you're more susceptible to getting irritated skin. However, if you want immediate results, then shaving is the way to go. Whether it's to remove hair from your legs, face, or bikini line, waxing and shaving will give you the same results in the end, and it all depends on what your personal preference is!
