Is It Better to Wax or Shave Armpits?

February 20, 2023

When it comes to identifying the best hair removal solution, we can look at the results in key parts of the body where body hair is more prominent. The armpits definitely fall under this category. Nearly every person finds a new way to deal with armpit hair once puberty hits, and some solutions gradually put a strain on the skin each time the hair starts to grow back.

Shaving is one of the quickest hair removal methods around, so it's not hard for people to make a habit of shaving the most exposed parts of their body every couple of days. Still, the drawbacks of shaving become more evident as new methods start taking the spotlight, with different hair removal products catering to every taste and skin condition.

What's the Best Way To Get Rid of Armpit Hair?

Waxing and shaving are far from the only hair removal options available, but they're arguably the two most accessible solutions for clients of all ages and backgrounds. The wax industry has expanded to the point that there's a formula for nearly every skin type. Meanwhile, there's no need to seek professional assistance or special equipment to help you shave your skin.

Waxing: It involves spreading a layer of body wax on the underarm area following the direction of hair growth. The esthetician removes the layer after letting it sit for a few seconds, pulling it against the direction of hair growth in one swift movement. The hairs that have adhered to the wax are ripped from the root, but the wax needs to the melted at the right temperature beforehand.

• Waxing your armpits is quicker than other wax treatments. Usually, you only need to spread one layer of wax to cover the skin on the armpit and all the hairs are ripped off on the first try. If people favor professional waxes, they need to schedule salon appointments around special events and their menstrual cycle.


• Because the hair is removed from the root, the skin remains smooth for weeks. Depending on how far you're into your wax regime, you can go for 3-6 weeks before you start feeling the scratch of new hairs.


• Hard waxes are commonly used to remove the hair on the armpits. The skin is very delicate, and hard waxes bring multiple soothing properties while being effective on armpit hair (which tends to be coarser, especially after shaving the area).


• Aftercare is extremely important because the skin on the underarms is subjected to constant friction. A big portion of your body's sweat also tends to go to the armpits, and this could prompt skin infections when the open pores become exposed to bacteria. Estheticians need to soothe the area with cold compresses and apply post-depilatory gel before ending the treatment. Natural ingredients like aloe vera are highly recommended.


• Waxing your armpits can hurt the first few times and no wax session is ever fully painless. Ripping off the hairs will always cause some measure of discomfort, but regular wax sessions quickly make the process more bearable. For many people, the momentary pain of waxing is only an afterthought, too brief to even count as a deterrent.

Shaving: When you shave, you need to run a razor over the skin, cutting the visible portion of the body hair. This method doesn't reach inside the follicle, so a portion of the hair is cut rather than ripped off from the root.

Most people know the gist of the process, but we still need to address some important details if we want to draw a proper comparison between shaving and waxing:

• Shaving is quick. The only prep involves waxing the armpits beforehand as it might be easier to remove the hairs when the skin is still fresh from the water. Shaving the underarms usually doesn't take more than 10 minutes, but it could take longer if the hair is coarse.


• The blades need to be sharp or you'll be forced to repeat the process multiple times before you manage to cut all the hairs. On the other hand, the razor could leave the skin tender, which is why you shouldn't use a razor with more than two blades.


• Shaving leaves the skin smooth for a couple of days. In most cases, it takes from 3 to 6 days for the hair to grow back. You can shave as often as necessary, but keep in mind that this will only make the hair grow back thicker.


• Another drawback of shaving many times a week is the way the skin becomes thinner and more fragile. Running a razor over the same area several times eventually makes the skin flaky and more likely to break. Keep the skin hydrated and moisturized to prevent lasting damage.


• A shaving routine will not make a dent in your budget. Most people shave using disposable razors that don't cost more than $10. An electric razor is slightly more expensive but still affordable.

Risks and Contraindications

None of these methods is free of risks, but permanent damage is highly unlikely unless you have an existing skin condition. When it comes to waxing, pregnancy and breastfeeding are also exceptions that make the process potentially dangerous. If you want to start a wax regime while following medical treatment for acne breakouts, hormonal problems, glaucoma, or cancer, you need to check with a doctor in advance, but chances are you won't be allowed to wax.

Now, let's address the more general risks, many of which can be prevented/alleviated with correct aftercare measures.

• Waxing: Some waxes can leave your armpits red, irritated, and mildly swollen, but in most cases, it doesn't last more than a couple of hours. A salon's post-wax care does a lot to alleviate the itchiness that's left on the skin after a wax. Ingrown hairs are also a possibility.


• Shaving: redness and irritation are also common after shaving the underarms. Ingrown hairs can result from uneven shaving, and you can leave scars on the skin if you press the razor too hard. Repeated shaving can also make the skin look dry and feel coarser to the touch.

We can't stress enough how important it is to soothe the area after removing the hairs. Avoid scratching your armpits and wearing tight clothes during the healing period. You can also apply calming oil/cream as often as you like but avoid artificial ingredients.

By nature, waxing treatments are more thorough, which is why professional wax services deliver better results while being overall safer. An esthetician will neutralize all risks of infections and use the best products to help the skin heal faster.

Should I Wax or Shave My Armpits?

We understand the practical benefits of shaving, especially regarding affordability and time effectiveness. Still, waxing is the best option to preserve the skin's natural elasticity in the long run. Regular wax sessions will keep your armpits soft and velvety for longer. Moreover, you'll save more time the longer you stick to your waxing routine because the hair will take longer to grow back and the new hairs will be thinner and easier to pull off.

There's no denying that shaving has remained relevant for a reason, but professional waxes are the best solution to preserve the skin in the long run. You can always count on Beauty Image USA to provide the best products and accessories, so you can prevent dryness around your armpits and other sensitive parts of the body. Just call TOLL FREE 888-513-8815 or fill out our website's Tag.Link.Page. contact form to learn more about our exclusive line of body waxes. And be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest news and tips straight to your inbox.

If you found this article helpful then let us know in the comments section below. Likewise, feel free to share it using the share options below. Want us to cover another topic of your interest pertaining to hair removal products? If so, then like us and follow us on social media, and post to any of our social media profiles the topic you'd like us to discuss: Facebook @BeautyImageUSA, Twitter @BeautyImageUSA and Instagram @beautyimageusa