Everything you need to know about Bikini Line Hair Removal (2024)

The subject of hair removal for women is perennially steeped in politics. Whether you're an au naturel advocate or prefer to be hair-free, it all boils down to personal beauty preference.

Feminist debates on the backburner for a moment, the reality is that many of us engage in some level of grooming, and knowing more about each method will give you a greater chance of achieving the best, silky smooth results.

From epilation and IPL to depilatory creams and sugaring, the modern age is brimming with removal options. But today we're spotlighting two classics: shaving and waxing. Self-explanatory, right? Grab your razor or speed dial your salon. Actually, there's a little more to it than that...

MORE:Laser hair removal: everything that you need to know - according to skin expert Nicola Russell

READ:Bikini wax styles and how to do it at home

Everything you need to know about Bikini Line Hair Removal (1)

© Slim Aarons

How to shave your bikini line:

In terms of which method out of shaving and waxing is best for your skin, sadly, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Both offer plenty of pros, but with shaving you run the risk of ingrown hairs and razor burn. That's not to say that waxing is entirely flawless – it can cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.

Shaving is super convenient and quick, ideal for impromptu depilatory sesh. And there are steps you can take to make sure your skin remains on top form.

MORE:Lash extensions: the ultimate treatment guide

READ:Eyelash tint: everything you need to know about the beauty treatment

How we chose:

Performance and personal testimony:The accompanying beauty buys are products that I (Hello! Fashion's resident beauty obsessive Orin Carlin) personally really rate.

Hello! Fashioncaught up with dermatologistDr Rahi Sarbazihafrom beauty marketplace appUpkeep to find out how to make shaving as skin-friendly as possible.

Do use the right razor

"When shaving the bikini line, it is best to use a single-blade razor, or a razor specifically designed for bikini area hair removal," Dr Sarbaziha explains. "It is important to ensure that the razor is sharp and free of rust."

Everything you need to know about Bikini Line Hair Removal (2)

Super cheap disposable razors are a total waste of time - they become blunt almost instantly, are poorly weighted and just feel horrid on your skin. I swear by Gillette's Venus range, and my personal go-to razor is its Deluxe Smooth Sensitive style. The metal handle is heavy enough so that you don't feel the urge to apply more pressure than necessary and I like the silky comfort of the lubrastrip to prevent any nicks.

Do trim the hair to a suitable length beforehand

Dr Sarbaziha recommends that before shaving, you should trim the hair with scissors or clippers to avoid clogging the razor. This will help the blade stay sharper for longer, which allows a smoother shave.

Don't scrimp on theshaving cream

Lubrication is key when it comes to preventing skin issues. "Shaving cream is essential because it helps reduce friction between the skin and the razor, which can lead to razor burn or irritation," Dr Sarbaziha says. "It can also help hydrate the skin - it is recommended to leave it on for between five and 10 minutes prior to shaving."

Do shave in the direction of hair growth

Pubic hair is much thicker than that of the rest of your body, and to prevent irritation, ingrown hairs, and razor burn, it's important to use strokes that match the direction of the hair growth.

Don't go hard on the exfoliation if your skin is experiencing sensitivity

"After shaving, rinse the area with cool water and apply a soothing moisturiser to help prevent irritation and dryness," Dr Sarbaziha advises. "It is generally safe to exfoliate the skin after shaving, however avoid doing so if there is any irritation or redness."

How to prevent ingrown hairs

Proceed with caution if you are prone to sensitivity, but gently exfoliating the area to remove follicle-clogging dead skin cells is the key to ingrown hair prevention. According to Dr Sarbaziha, it is also important to avoid tight clothing and underwear immediately after hair removal.

"If you do experience ingrown hair, you should avoid picking or squeezing it, as this can cause further irritation or infection," she advises. "Instead, you can try using a product specifically designed to treat ingrown hairs or consult with a skincare specialist for further care."

Everything you need to know about Bikini Line Hair Removal (3)

I tend to swerve physical scrubs in favour of liquid exfoliants on my face, but when it comes to body, I'm all about gentle abrasion. I'm a big Neal's Yard fan across the board, and recently I've been working my way through its Wild Rose Body Polish. It feels more comforting than a traditional granular scrub because of the creamy, hyaluronic acid-packed base and I like that the wild rosehip seeds aren't too coarse - the perfect level of grittiness.

Bikini wax:

For longer lasting results, waxing could be a beauty godsend. The process works by removing the hair from the root, meaning it takes longer to grow back – you could expect the results to last around three to six weeks. By incorporating gentle heat, it is released in one piece with its shaft intact – ideal for stubborn hairs – and should result in fewer ingrown hairs than shaving.

What happens during a bikini wax?

Firstly, the therapist will cleanse the area. They will then check the temperature of the wax and apply it to the section using a spatula. After applying a wax strip, the therapist will pull it off against the direction of the hair growth, repeating the process until all the hair has been removed. Finally, a soothing product with a cooling ingredient will be applied to reduce any inflammation.

Bikini line waxing tips:

Do prep your skin before your appointment

"Exfoliate every day a few days before an appointment to lift off dead skin cells and release any ingrown hairs," says waxing and skin specialist Nadiya Bekar. "This ensures a cleaner, smoother and more thorough treatment."

Don'tuse emollients beforehand if possible

"Don't use moisturiser or oil on the day of your appointment. The wax sticks to it and it is difficult to remove."

Do share your skin context with the therapist

"Let your therapist know of any medical condition such as allergies, varicose veins, or moles to avoid."

Don't shave for at least a fortnight beforehand

If your hair is too short, the wax won't be able to grip properly and you won't get a close wax. Also avoid sunbeds or heat treatments for at least 48 hours before your appointment otherwise the area will sting.

Do pay attention to the aftercare process

"No hot baths or showers, steam rooms, sunbathing, heat or working out for 24 hours," Nadiya says. "This can irritate and sensitise the skin. Also avoid oils and moisturisers on waxed skin for a few days as these can block the freshly opened and cleared follicles causing ingrown hairs and unsightly lumps. Exfoliating is also a no-no immediately after, your skin doesn't need it because a wax is a form of exfoliation."

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Everything you need to know about Bikini Line Hair Removal (2024)

FAQs

Everything you need to know about Bikini Line Hair Removal? ›

Do shave in the direction of hair growth. Pubic hair is much thicker than that of the rest of your body, and to prevent irritation, ingrown hairs, and razor burn, it's important to use strokes that match the direction of the hair growth.

What is the best way to remove hair from the bikini line? ›

Shaving, waxing, and sugaring are among the most common forms of hair removal for the bikini area. Deciding between these three options can come down to lifestyle, accessibility, skin sensitivity, and even the texture of your body hair. That being said, hair removal is optional.

How do I prepare for bikini hair removal? ›

6 Things To Do Before Your Laser Hair Removal Treatments Begin
  1. Stop Plucking and Waxing. One of the best ways to prepare for hair removal treatment is to cease all forms of plucking and waxing. ...
  2. Shave the Area. ...
  3. Avoid Sun Exposure. ...
  4. Put Down the Bleach. ...
  5. Check Your Medication. ...
  6. Remove Makeup or Creams.
Jun 27, 2022

What is the proper way to shave your bikini line? ›

Shave lightly with steady strokes

Using steady strokes, very lightly shave your bikini line in the direction of the hair growth. You do not have to apply much pressure on your razor. In fact, if you have a sharp blade, it should do most of the work for you.

How do I get a smooth bikini line without bumps? ›

The Right Way to Shave Your Bikini Area to Avoid Bumps
  1. Wait Until the End of Your Shower to Start. When you hop in the tub, shampoo, condition, and cleanse your bod before going anywhere near your razor. ...
  2. Exfoliate Beforehand. ...
  3. Lather Up with Shaving Cream.

How do celebrities remove pubic hair? ›

Despite newer techniques becoming available, celebrities still use waxing as a popular hair removal method. For those shyer about their private parts or unable to experience the benefits of laser hair removal, waxing is an effective hair removal treatment.

What is the healthiest way to remove pubic hair? ›

Trimming is the safest option because it shortens your pubic hair without cutting close to the skin, which can lead to injury or infection. You can use scissors or a trimming tool marketed for use on pubic hair, or even tools made for trimming beards.

Is it better to shave bikini area wet or dry? ›

As a result, there's less chance of skin irritation, which can make it a more popular option for those with sensitive skin. Another benefit of dry shaving is less ingrown hair. Wet shaving cuts hair close to – and even below – the skin surface, which makes ingrown hair more likely.

How do you maintain your bikini line without ingrown hairs? ›

Read on for more expert-approved shaving tips before you jump in the shower.
  • Invest in a good bikini razor.
  • Prep to prevent ingrown hair on your bikini line. ...
  • Don't skip shaving cream. ...
  • Pay attention to your shaving direction. ...
  • Calm your skin after shaving the bikini area.
  • Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.
Apr 25, 2023

What do you wear to a bikini laser? ›

If you are treating your bikini area, choose cotton underwear and loose-fitting pants.

Is it better to pluck or shave your bikini line? ›

From personal experience, I have to say that tweezing the bikini line is an effective, although time-consuming alternative to waxing. Like waxing, it removes hairs from the root, so it takes longer for them to grow back than with shaving.

Can I use hair removal cream on my private area? ›

You can use depilatory creams to remove hair on almost every area of your body. Some creams are specially made for sensitive places, like your face and bikini area. Your hair will grow back quickly after you remove it with a depilatory cream. New hair will usually appear within a few days.

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