When it comes to pubic hair, people groom it using a variety of methods including shaving, waxing, trimming, and laser removal. These methods can lead to ingrown hairs and infections though, so most gynecologists warn against them and recommend trimming or letting it be instead.
Overall, the better choice of the two methods is totally up to you and your personal preference. For some, the pain of waxing is enough to put up with all the tedious parts of shaving. For others, the idea of shaving every day is much too high-maintenance. There is no better or worse process—only what's right for you.
Less irritation: If you prep well, waxing may be less likely than shaving to cause rashes and bumps. Long lasting: Wax pulls hair out from the root, so you'll stay smooth for longer than you would with a razor. Eventually, the hair grows back — but a Brazilian wax can keep you hair-free for three or four weeks.
Irritation, inflammation and infection can occur, and if you have a lowered immune system, Brazilian waxing could actually be dangerous (more on that later). Gagnon says the problems can start if the aesthetician doesn't pull the skin taut enough during waxing.
To remain fuzz-free, most of us benefit from bikini waxes every two weeks; three to four weeks for a Brazilian wax. Waiting longer than a few weeks between appointments can leave skin feeling itchy and uncomfortable as the hairs grow in.
While shaving crops the hair at the skin's surface, waxing pulls it out by the root, so it grows back softer, finer, and thinner. Waxing is great for those who are tired of the hassle of shaving several times per week. The more you wax, the less hair grows back.
Hairs can stop showing up after 8 months of treatment in areas where it grows naturally finer, as well as with people with fine hair. It's just as common, however, for people to go through years of wax sessions before the hair stops growing for good.
What all of this means is that an average Brazilian wax will only remove about 30% of hair by the root while it is in the Anagen phase. The majority of your hair is in the Telogen phase, so you are only removing the old, dead hair. This means that you can expect to see noticeable hair regrowth within 2 to 3 weeks.
Irritation: Removing pubic hair by waxing or shaving can cause skin irritation, razor burns, or ingrown hairs, which can be uncomfortable or painful. Infection: Shaving or waxing can create small cuts or openings in the skin that can increase the risk of infection, especially if the area is not kept clean.
If you are one with thicker, coarser hair, then you may experience some itching once new hair starts to emerge from the follicle.
Some feel slight pain, some feel none. But the pain will never be completely unbearable and the discomfort is it's worth it and that it gets better with each session. If you're feeling uneasy, just speak with your wax pro before your appointment and she will provide you with a complete education on the process.
Because your hair doesn't go through the stages of the growth cycle all at the exact same time, the hair will grow back at different rates. After a wax, the hairs that were in the resting phase will begin growing back, and that's why you'll see hair regrowth in a matter of weeks but not as thick as before.
Mild inflammation of the hair follicles as a result of a Brazilian wax (which is to be expected for nearly everyone, to be fair) can also drain into your lymph nodes and make you feel generally unwell and tired, adds Dr. Frazer.
On an average, pubic hair ranges between 0.5 to 1.5 inches. But according to the Illustrated Book of Sexual Records, the longest known pubic hair in history was 28 inches long and belonged to a woman from South Africa. The hair was so long, it reached her knees. The same woman had armpit hair that was 32 inches long.
You may not leave as smooth as you'd like.
"When you're dehydrated, your pores hold onto hair for dear life and snap when that wax strip is pulled off rather than coming out at the root," she explains.
The short answer is yes. If you don't know exactly what a Brazilian wax entails, here's a quick overview: The wax technician waxes off everything, and we mean everything — from the front of your pubic area to the labia to your butt (between your butt cheeks, if we're being exact).
It's understandable that there will be a little embarrassment, especially for a first-timer as you may feel slightly uncomfortable being so exposed. Rest assured, our therapists have seen it all and, like a doctor or nurse, it's their job.
Up to 1/2 inch should be fine. If your hair is any longer you may feel some discomfort when the wax is applied. It will also make it trickier for your therapist to get the job done. Trim excess hair down beforehand or shave and wait a couple of weeks for it to grow back before returning to the salon.
For at least 24 hours, you'll want to avoid saunas, tanning beds, and even the gym. Wait for Sex: Give yourself about 2 days, or 24-48 hours, to recover from the wax before engaging in any sexual activity. Keep it Loose: Avoid tight and constricting clothing for a few days after your wax.
PRE WAXING CARE
Length of hair must to be at least ¼ inch long. No shaving for at least 2-3 weeks. It is recommended to take a hot shower before your waxing appointment.
What length should I trim my pubic hair to prevent itch? Trimming your pubic hair too low is a common way to get itch during regrowth. We recommend using a guard to have your pubic hair remain at least 2mm high. This will lead to less itching when it grows back, as the hairs won't be going through the skin.