Pierrette Mulumba
With winter saying its final goodbyes and spring slowly creeping, the age old debate continues. No, not whether or not you can wear a turtleneck with a mini-skirt. This debate is about hair; lack of hair that is and how to achieve it. Do I shave? Or shall I wax?
How Do They Work?
Shaving is much easier to do as waxing usually has you to going to a salon or investing in hot wax, waxing strips and lotions. Thus it’s not the most convenient form of hair removal. Shaving on the other hand just needs a razor and cream; unless you prefer to shave with water.
Pace
Waxing takes too long. You have to wait for the wax to heat up and possibly re-wax certain areas that still have patches of hair. Shaving just needs some precise strokes and you’re smooth and ready to go. Besides, it’s more efficient on a weekly basis.
Hair Does Grow Back
Waxing and shaving aren’t magic wands that prevent hair growth in your legs, underarms and any other special places. Waxing pulls the hair out straight from the root so it takes 3-4 weeks for hair regrowth whereas shaving only removes the hair from the top of the skin so regrowth occurs in about a week. Waxing has the hair growing back much thinner and finer whereas with shaving, the texture remains the same.
Which One Hurts Less?
Definitely not waxing. When waxing, the strip is pulled in the opposite direction of which the hair grows so… Ouch. Shaving is relatively painless as long as you use something to moisturise your skin so you don’t accidentally cut yourself. However if you do, it’s usually a small cut.
Hygiene
Most people go to salons for their waxing however this is not the safest because you don’t know how conscious they are about hygiene. With shaving; just use our own razor.
How Much Does It Cost?
The only reason waxing costs more is because you have to go out to a salon or, of you’re really desperate; call a professional to your home. With shaving, you need a razor and cream. There. You’re done.
How Does It Feel On My Skin?
If you have sensitive skin, put the hot wax down. Waxing can cause irritation and if the wax is too hot, it can lead to burn marks. There are less chances of skin irritation when it comes to shaving.
Can I Do Anything Else To Remove Hair?
Laser Hair Removal
The laser goes into the skin and destroys the follicle. It has long-term effects but is expensive, quite painful and involves continuous visits to the dermatologist. However, it’s a great investment.
Electrolysis
A needle-shaped electrode electrocutes the hair follicles. It’s usually applied to small areas like eyebrows and underarms yet it’s time-consuming, expensive and if improperly done, can lead to scarring.
