Hair Removal Options for Summer

While most of us just can’t wait to start wearing shorts and skirts, many of us dread the hassle of making sure we’ve remembered to shave our legs. However there are many more options out there than just waxing and shaving. Take a look at several options so that you can find out which is best for you:

Shaving 

Pros: Fast and easy to do whenever needed.
Cons: Doing it dry may cause bumps or cuts; Results don’t last long;

Shaving usually leads to smooth results, especially if you use a cream before you start but stubble is definitely an unsightly problem within 48 hours. It’s also really hard to get super close without risking cutting yourself (making your skin look worse). It’s good to have around when you need it in a pinch, but the razor can definitely be replaced by a better method.

Waxing

Pros: Someone else does it; Lasts longer than shaving.
Cons: Slightly painful; Slightly more expensive; Must schedule regular appointments for maintenance;

Waxing leaves your skin smooth and lasts a lot longer than shaving, making it worth the price and hassle of getting it done. Don’t plan to wear shorts or a skirt right after you get it done as your skin may have little red bumps for awhile (but it’s definitely not anywhere near as painful as Steve Carell makes it seem in The 40-Year-Old Virgin. Not even close). A good esthetician will pull off the strips quickly and easily. You also need to make sure you have a fair bit of stubble for the wax to grab onto or it will be a waste of a trip.

Laser/Permanent Hair Removal

Pros: Almost never having to shave or wax again.
Cons: Painful; Really expensive;

Laser hair removal usually works best if you have dark hair and light skin, making it easier for the laser to detect the follicles. Also it is a mildly painful process that usually requires a couple of appointments to get rid of most of hair on pretty much any area on your body. It is suggested that you redo-treatments every few years to prevent regrowth. Results are essentially different for everybody, but if you can afford it go for it!  Make sure to investigate a clinic first.

Creams

Pros: Inexpensive; Easy to do at home when needed.
Cons: Usually smelly, May cause skin irritation;

If you’re going to try Nair, or an equivalent product, test out a small amount on a hidden patch of skin first. You will not want to find out after that you’re going to have a horrible reaction. Also be warned that no matter how much perfume these products have they still don’t smell amazing (so hopefully you have a window in your washroom). Read instruction carefully and follow them exactly as they read. Use a timer and don’t use a product on any area it doesn’t say it’s okay to use on. Seriously. Make sure the cream is on for the same amount of time and is the same thickness everywhere or your results may be spotty.

Mittens/Buffers

Pros: Inexpensive, Easy to do yourself.
Cons: Tends to dry out skin and take off tan; Reminiscent of nails on chalkboard; Hair grows back almost as fast as shaving;

While using buffers or mittens to “sand” away hair is easy and affordable your skin will be really flakey afterwards, and it can fade your tan. It doesn’t hurt, but it can feel somewhat like sanding wood (which is kind of harsh on your skin).  If you tend to nick yourself with your razor try it out, but you could just as easily shave. Rub gently in a circular motion.

While you can do some of these treatments in the comfort of your home and at your own convenience it may be better to let a professional do it. Waxing improperly can cause painful ingrown hair and at home treatments can be complicated and hard to do on your own body. Always remember to moisturize afterward to help your skin calm down and remain smooth all summer long.