Underarm hair usually makes its appearance during the preteen years. Some people may consider underarm hair unsightly. Due to the sweat glands in the area, perspiration can add to why some consider this hair undesirable.
Luckily, there are several ways to remove underarm hair. Some last longer than others, some are costlier, some require the help of a professional, but all get the job done. Let’s look at the different methods for removing underarm hair and what you can do to achieve better results.
Ways to Remove Underarm Hair
Depending on your specifications, one of the several methods of underarm hair removal will meet your goals.
Shaving
Shaving involves using a razor to cut the hair as close to the skin as possible. The hair bulb, the part that anchors the hair in place, remains intact while the unsightly shaft is removed.
Selecting to shave your underarm hair can be convenient. With the proper precautions, you can cover a large area of hair quickly. Provided you don’t cut yourself in the process, shaving is painless and inexpensive as all you need is a razor.
The downside is that shaving your underarm hair will give you a day or two before it starts to grow back visibly. Furthermore, when the hair starts to grow back, the protruding shafts can cause itching.
Plucking
Plucking is a solution to underarm hair that lasts a little more than shaving. By using tweezers, you pull the strand out from the follicle along with the root. This will make the hair take close to two weeks to visibly start to grow back.
Plucking your underarm hair will take longer than shaving as you have to pull each strand out individually. You’ll have to use a mirror as plucking your underarm hair means you won’t be able to have a comfortable view. It also stings as you pluck each hair and you may experience a little redness.
Waxing
Waxing is a method that gathers the benefits of both shaving and plucking while also maintaining some of the disadvantages. With waxing, you place hot wax on the underarm area so that the hair strands cling to the cooling wax. A swift motion causes the hair to be dislodged from the root.
While you can cover your entire armpit with one motion, the sharp pain can be a discouraging factor for many. Waxing keeps hair out of sight for almost two weeks as with plucking.
Threading
Threading is a hair removal technique that isn’t often used on the underarm. However, those that prefer the method can reap good results. Threading involves using a special string that pulls the hair from the root.
This method is usually available at salons that specialize in the technique as it requires the appropriate experience. In effect, the string pulls the hair out of your skin without damaging the follicle. Threading is less painful than plucking and waxing and results can last for up to a month and a half.
Depilatory Cream
Depilatory creams use chemicals that dissolve the hair through the application of a thick layer of the substance on the area. You allow the cream to rest on your underarm for a few minutes and rinse it off, removing the unwanted hair along with the cream.
Using a depilatory cream can be great for those that want to avoid more painful solutions. However, keep in mind that results will not last as long as methods that remove the hair from its root.
Also, be sure to rinse the cream off after the recommended interval. Keeping the chemical in contact with your skin for longer may result in irritation. As a precaution, try the cream on a small area to make sure your skin doesn’t react negatively to the chemical before moving on to the entire underarm area.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis is a method of hair removal that destroys the root of the hair entirely. Due to being a permanent measure, you should be certain that you wish to do away with your underarm hair entirely.
The technique is FDA-approved and is applied by a specialist such as a dermatologist. There is a bit of a sting to endure with each hair targeted and the procedure may require several sessions to achieve its end result.
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is another procedure that requires the services of a professional. A special laser causes the underarm hair to become finer, and thus, less visible to the eye.
The pain associated with laser hair removal is minimal and your dermatologist may even apply a topical anesthetic for your comfort. Depending on your hair’s thickness, you may require as many as 10-12 sessions to reach your end goal.
Helpful Tips
Underarm hair removal becomes more convenient and painless when you follow a few simple tips.
Shaving Tips
When shaving your underarm hair, rinse the razor after every stroke. You may be eager to be done quickly but taking this extra measure ensures you get optimal results. A clean razor means the blade will smoothly glide over the skin, maintaining maximum comfort.
Deodorant After Laser Hair Removal
A common question concerning the procedure is whether you can use deodorant following laser hair removal. Since the area may be slightly irritated after your session, you should wait at least until the following day to apply deodorant. Your dermatologist will advise you accordingly, but rest assured, you will not have to trade a smooth underarm for poor hygiene.
Choosing What’s Right for You
Choosing a method of underarm hair removal depends on several factors. Your tolerance for pain and the duration of results you seek are weighed against your budget. Choosing a long-lasting solution like laser hair removal may end up costing you less in the long run while sparing you from unnecessary pain and discomfort.